These are a set of interconnected short stories/vignettes centering on events shortly before, during, and after Leyton's coup attempt on Earth as seen in the DS9 episodes "Homefront" and "Paradise Lost", with the primary theme of these stories and vignettes revolving around friendship and family. I hope you all enjoy these stories.
Side note: You get to see a bit of "naughty Liz" here--she hasn't come out to play for a while, and Liz has had it rough lately, so I thought I'd let her out for just a little bit...
********************************************
MESSAGES FROM EARTH
Part 1: Making Plans
“You did a good job with the situation on Ekos, Captain.” Admiral Ross declared, his image appearing on the desk monitor in Captain Shelby’s ready room.
Shaking her head, a derisive snort escaped Elizabeth as she made her reply, “I wish I could say that we did. To be honest, Sir…it was a clusterfrinx.” Gritting her teeth, the blonde starship captain continued her report. “Professor Davin was murdered, and Lieutenant Rysyl, Ambassador Offenhouse and I were taken prisoner. It was only through a combination of Commander Hobson and Lieutenant Atoa’s rescue teams and a good measure of luck that we were able to get out with our lives.” Pausing for a moment to take a sip from her coffee, Liz continued her morose report, “And…to make matters worse, the pro-Federation government on Ekos is probably going to fall and be replaced by one that will rescind withdraw its status as an associate member of the Federation.” No matter how you cut it, Sir…” Shelby sighed, “…it was a disaster.”
“I think you’re being too hard on yourself, Liz.” Ross replied in a paternal tone. “I know Professor Davin was very important to you…” Seeing the youthful captain taking a breath to speak, the avuncular admiral held up his hand, “No…Liz…let me finish. I know you think you’re responsible for what happened to the Professor, but you have to understand it wasn’t your fault—there was nothing you could have done about it. Nor could you have done anything about the political fallout.”
“I know you’re right, Sir” Elizabeth conceded, “And I am feeling better. It’s just that there are times…”
“I know.” The admiral replied, acknowledging the emotional weight felt by the young captain, “And I’d probably feel the same way if I were in your shoes. I know the Professor was a lot more than just a teacher to you—he was a mentor…and a friend. And I know you have damned few of those. But I think I can understand a little about how you feel. I might not be able to empathize—but I can sympathize. The Professor’s goal was a good one—one that is still attainable. I think the worst thing that could happen would be for his sacrifice to be in vain, wouldn’t you agree?”
“You’re right, Sir.” Liz answered back, nodding her head. Taking another sip of her coffee, Elizabeth’s face twisted in distaste at the flavor of the now cold beverage, “So…what happens now? Ambassador Offenhouse is wondering when he’ll be leaving. And…to be honest…” she confessed, “I’m looking forward to our next mission. The sooner I can get away from Ekos…”
“The better. I understand completely, Liz.” Ross said sympathetically. A smile appearing on his face, the admiral cleared his throat. “I think you might like these orders, but I’m afraid they call for you having to put up with Ambassador Offenhouse for a bit longer.”
“Sir?” The petite blonde captain interjected, surprised. “I’d have thought that the Federation Council would have wanted him back as soon as possible…”
“They do.” The admiral replied, his grin growing wider. “That’s where the Sutherland comes in.” Pausing for effect, Admiral Ross announced, “Your orders are to get Ambassador Offenhouse to Earth as soon as possible.”
“Earth?” Liz asked, a smile forming on her face, “Are you serious, Sir? I’d think that Starfleet Command and the Federation Council could get what they need from him through subspace rather than detailing the Sutherland on what amounts to a ferrying mission—not that I’m complaining, but still…”
“Switch to a secure channel.” The admiral ordered as his image disappeared, to be replaced by the Starfleet emblem. Moving quickly to comply, Liz touched a button on her console. The Starfleet device replaced once again by Admiral Ross’s face, the admiral cleared his throat. “What I’m about to tell you is classified—need to know only.”
“Understood, Sir.” Liz acknowledged.
“A diplomatic conference with representatives of the Romulan Empire is being held on Earth even as we speak.” Admiral Ross announced. “The main topic of the conference will center on coordinated action against the Dominion threat.” Immediately upon hearing the admiral’s words, Elizabeth sat bolt upright in her seat. “I thought that would get your attention, Liz.” Ross deadpanned. “While, even going at maximum warp, you probably won’t be able to make it on time to get the ambassador to the conference; you’ll be able to get him there in time to participate in the nuts and bolts deliberations that’ll be going on afterwards.”
“I think I see…” Liz remarked, only to be cut off by the admiral.
“Right…” Ross affirmed, nodding his head, “He’ll be able to give his insights on the situation regarding possible Dominion involvement and to answer any questions that might come up.” Repressing a yawn, the admiral concluded, “Well…you have your orders, Captain. Have a pleasant trip.”
“Thank you, Sir.” Liz replied; a grin returning to her face as the admiral’s image on the computer monitor was once again replaced by the insignia of Starfleet Command. Pressing the intercom button on her desk, Captain Shelby spoke, “Commander Hobson…report to my ready room, please. We’ve got our new orders.”
****************************************************
As the tunes from an old torch song, ‘Stormy Weather’, filled the air in Rick’s, the Sutherland’s lounge decorated to resemble a 1940’s era nightclub; Sam Lavelle took a sip from his bourbon and coke, “So…what are you going to do once we get to Earth?” He asked the dusky skinned woman sitting at the table across from him.
“Go home…” Ensign Maria Django replied as she took a sip of her drink, an Antarean Sunrise, “See the parents…maybe hit the beach. What about you?”
“Pretty much the same.” Sam replied as Alec, the piano player who also worked in hydroponics, smoothly switched to a Cole Porter tune. “I figured I’d go to Nairobi—see my father at the university…and then swing by Toronto and spend some time with my sister and her family.”
“You know…” Maria smiled shyly as she traced the edge of her glass with her finger, “…you could come to Rio with me—after you see your family, that is. We could go to Ipanema…”
“Sounds good.” Sam replied, flashing a roguish grin, “But what about this? Why don’t you come with me to Nairobi and then we can go to Rio…”
“Hmmm…” Maria smiled as she considered her answer. Finishing her drink, she replied, her voice now taking on a husky quality, “Sure…why not. Sounds like fun.”
******************************************************
Another couple, this one consisting of the Sutherland’s first officer, Christopher Hobson, and the operations officer, the lovely olive-skinned Deltan woman, Lieutenant Anara Rysyl, sat at another table in the bar, one close to the piano. Sipping her Trillian aurea, Anara asked, her lyrical voice accentuated by the Cole Porter song being played on the piano, “What do you plan to do with your shore leave, Chris?”
“I don’t know…” The diffident first officer replied in his usual nasal tone. “To be honest, I haven’t really thought about it.”
“You have family…” The beautiful Deltan suggested, “How long has it been since you’ve seen them.”
“It’s been several years…” Chris began, pausing for a moment as he took a sip of his scotch, “Not since…”
Shaking her head sadly, Anara interjected, “You mean to tell me you haven’t seen your family since…the accident?” Sighing at Hobson’s slight nod of his head, Anara declared earnestly, “Then I’d say it’s past time that you did.” Not giving her companion the chance to interrupt, the Deltan continued to speak in a gentle, yet persistent tone, “They’re your family, Chris. You’ve been punishing yourself for too long.”
“Perhaps you’re right. Maybe I should.” Hobson replied diffidently, his lips turning up into a slight smile as he saw the pleased look on his companion’s face. “What about you? What are your plans?”
Shrugging her shoulders, Anara replied with a chuckle, “I haven’t really given the matter much thought.”
“You know…” Chris began hesitatingly, “…you could…come along with me…”
“No…” Anara said, shaking her head gently, placing her hand on that of her companion’s, “I’d be intruding…this is something I think you need to do alone.”
“You’re right…” Hobson acknowledged, his usual poker face returning as he withdrew his hand from the table. “…of course. Please accept my apologies.” Finishing his drink Chris stood up, “Now…if you’ll excuse me…I think I’ll turn in for the evening.”
Watching in stunned silence as the first officer strode out of the lounge; Anara vaguely heard the muffled voice of Jadon Tol, the Sutherland’s chief engineer and best friend of the icy Hobson, “Chris…whatever am I going to do with you…”
“Huh?” The bewildered Deltan woman exclaimed as she looked up to find the Trill engineer standing next to her. “Jadon?”
“My buddy, Chris…” The roguish Trill sighed, taking the recently vacated seat across from Anara as he gestured for the volunteer waiter to bring him a mug of synth-hol. “I’ve got duty in a couple of hours.” The engineer explained, making a face as he took a tentative sip, “You know why drinking synth-hol is like making love in a canoe?”
Shaking her head in bemusement at the free-spirited Jadon, Anara answered back, “No…why?”
“They’re both frinxing too near water!” Jadon laughed, his joke eliciting an amused chuckle from his companion. Seeing that his gag had the desired effect, the Trill engineer said in a sympathetic voice, “Don’t be too hard on Chris—he’s just a…”
“He’s an ass.” Anara completed with a frown as she sipped her drink.
“Well…” Jadon quipped, “I was going to say dumbass, but…”
“I think I like dumbass better.” Anara jibed back.
“Yeah…” Jadon agreed, then, his tone gentling, he pleaded, “But don’t be too hard on him…it’s just that…”
“He just keeps pushing me back.” Anara interrupted, her humor disappearing. “He’s so afraid of allowing anyone close to him…”
“I know…” Jadon concurred and then, leaning close, he spoke in a voice barely louder than a whisper, “Look, Chris has always been the sort who kept people at a distance. When Natalie died…” Tol explained, “It was even worse. He drew so far into himself that I wasn’t sure he’d ever make his way out. It took a long time for him to finally come to grips with what happened, and to be honest, he still hasn’t completely.”
“I understand…” The Deltan woman replied, repressing a shudder, “I felt the pain that he went through…”
“Yeah…” Jadon conceded, “Your empathic link with him has probably made you closer to him than anyone else—including me—and I’ve known him longer than anyone else here.”
Shaking her head sadly, Anara interjected, “Not that much closer. So much of him is still walled off.” Sighing deeply, the Deltan woman added somberly, “And I don’t know if I can—or even if I want to—put up with the emotional baggage…”
“You shouldn’t have to.” Jadon declared solemnly, “Chris has let this go on for far too long.” Smiling a roguish grin at the lovely Deltan sitting across from him, the Trill engineer remarked, “You know, maybe what he needs instead of a shoulder to cry on is a good swift kick in the pants.”
Flashing a wicked grin of her own, Anara rejoined, “Ok, Jadon…What do you have in that twisted mind of yours?”
*****************************************************
“What are your plans, Mr. Varok?” Ensign Candy Johnson asked, looking up from her computer console in the astrophysics lab.
“Excuse me, Mr. Johnson?” The elderly Vulcan responded in his usual flat tone.
“Your plans…when we get to Earth?” The bubbly ensign replied, “What are you going to do? I mean I heard that we’re going to be laid up for a week or so as they do some work on the main deflector array…”
Long experienced in the human trait of incessant curiosity, Varok, bowing down to the inevitable, decided to indulge the junior officer, “I plan to meet my granddaughter—T’Pren. She is a student at Starfleet Academy.”
“Oh?” Candy responded, much to the chagrin of her Vulcan superior, “What year’s she in? What’s her specialty?”
Taking a deep breath, Varok continued to humor the young human. “She is a third year cadet.” He declared; his voice and manner not reflecting the pride that he felt deep within him for her and her accomplishment, “And is a science specialist.”
“Just like her grandfather!” Candy interjected with an infectious grin. “You must be proud of her.”
“Pride is an emotional response.” Varok replied flatly, “And as such is illogical. But…” he added, “I do take…satisfaction…in her accomplishing her goals in the manner she has done.”
“You should.” Candy responded with a wicked grin as she returned to her work, “You have every right to feel that way.”
Raising his eyebrow, Mr. Varok returned to his duties, silent as he remembered the conversation he had with his daughter, T’Prel, several hours earlier concerning T’Pren and some recent…illogical…decisions that she had made. Decisions that affected not just her life, but also the family honor. Decisions that he intended to discuss with his wayward granddaughter as soon as possible.
**************************************************************
The trite saying that goes ‘Time heals all wounds’ more often that not is a truism, Liz noted as the grief she had felt several days ago over the loss of Professor Davin had by now, for the most part, gone, leaving behind mostly happy memories with only the occasional painful twinge to remind her of his passing. Now, with the Sutherland’s arrival at Earth drawing nearer, Liz began to make plans. Luxuriating in her tub, gently scented soapy bubbles tingling her skin, she smiled her first truly contented smile in days as she sipped champagne from a long crystal flute. “Computer…” The hedonistic captain ordered, “Establish a subspace communication with Sandy Moore and Jason Phillips…their subspace idents should be in my personal database.”
“Idents confirmed.” The computer replied, “Connection made.”
“Display visual…bathroom wall monitor.” Liz ordered as she set her glass down on the side of the tub next to her.
“Lizzy!” The woman, a stunning blonde wearing a blue bathrobe and lying on a large double bed grinned widely as she recognized the Starfleet captain. “Jason! Come over here! It’s Lizzy!”
“Hey Liz! Long time!” The man, a dark haired man with a goatee and wearing a towel around his waist, smiled broadly as he entered the room, joining his companion on the bed. Leering, he quipped in an English accent, “You’re looking good—but aren’t you out of uniform?”
“Yeah…” Sandy interjected, speaking in a sultry voice, “You look absolutely scrumptious."
“Hmmm…you two look delicious yourselves.” Liz purred as she took a sip from her champagne.
“How long has it been, love?” Jason asked.
“Eight…maybe nine months…” Liz answered back.
“I can’t believe it’s been so long.” Sandy exclaimed, “So, Baby…what’s up?”
“Yeah…darling…” Jason remarked, “I hope it’s nothing bad.”
“No…” Liz replied, her body stiffening momentarily before she banished—for now—the memories of Professor Davin that had suddenly rushed into her mind. “In fact…it’s good news. The Sutherland should be at Earth in a few days or so…”
“Hey!” Sandy cried out, “That means you’ll be able to make it to Raul’s party!”
“That’s right.” Jason chimed in, “You have to come, Liz…you know it’s not the same without you.”
“Yeah.” Sandy interjected, “I remember the last time…”
“That was fun, wasn’t it?” Liz quipped, “I don’t think I ever…”
“Me either…” Sandy giggled.
“So…” Jason asked as Sandy began playing with his long hair, “We can count on you?”
“I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” Liz grinned as Jason kissed the back of Sandy’s neck. “Hmmm…” Elizabeth remarked, flashing a brief leer as she watched her friends growing more and more amorous, “I better let you go now. Looks like you two are getting ready to have some fun of your own.” Mock pouting, she added, “I wish I could join you.”
“You don’t have to go, Liz.” Jason protested as he undid Sandy’s bathrobe.
“No…don’t go.” Sandy added with a wicked grin as her sultry voice grew even more seductive, “We know how much you like to watch.”
“Mmmm…” Elizabeth purred, “Much as I’m tempted to, I’d better not tie up this subspace channel too long. But don’t worry; we’ll get together in a few days for fun and games.”
“Mmmm…We can’t wait,” Sandy replied in a husky voice as the man lying next to her continued his kisses and caresses.
“See you soon, Liz, darling.” Jason then said as he reached over his sensuous blonde partner to terminate the transmission. “Bye, love!” Sandy called out as the monitor went blank.
Taking another sip from her champagne, Liz lay back in her tub, “Hmmm…now, what should I wear to Raul’s orgy? I wore leather last time—I think this time I’ll go for lace. Maybe the Andorian spider-silk teddy that Garak made for me? Yes…that should do nicely.”
************************************************************
Walking briskly down the corridor towards the holodeck, Denise returned the greetings of various crewmembers with a courteous smile or a hello until she made out the form of Lieutenant Atoa approaching her. Fighting down the butterflies in her stomach, the doctor smiled back as the burly security officer greeted her, “Mornin’ Denise,” Manuele called out with a grin as he took in the slender Japanese woman standing before him, “Going out for your morning run?”
“Yeah…” Denise all but stammered as she felt her whole body growing warmer while in the presence of the New Kauaian.
“So…where are you jogging this time? Boston Marathon? San Francisco? The Pythian Ridge on Alpha Centauri V? The Taelian forest on Rigel VIII?
Smiling, Dr. Murakawa replied, “This time I thought I’d try out that program you loaned me…”
“The cliff trail overlooking New Honolulu?” Seeing the doctor’s head nodding in confirmation, Manuele smiled warmly, “Yeah…I used to love hiking there when I was a kid. I remember how my brother and I always got into trouble exploring the trails and caves…”
“You know…” Denise, forcing down the lump growing in her throat, ventured, “If you want…you can join me…”
Maintaining his smile, Manuele shook his head ruefully, “It’s tempting…but…I can’t right now...” He then explained, “I’ve got a departmental meeting in an hour…that gives me just enough time to get my stuff together and fire off a quick subspace letter to Mere…”
Upon hearing the name of the beautiful Ekosian security officer, Denise felt her heart sink as she all but tuned out the rest of Lt. Atoa’s words, “…but I’d like to take a rain check if that’s ok with you…” Seeing the faraway look in the doctor’s eyes, the New Kauaian inquired, a note of mild concern in his voice, “Denise? Denise? You ok? You look like you’re miles away…”
“Oh…” Dr. Murakawa, her face reddening with embarrassment as Manuele’s words brought her back, “I’m sorry…I get like this just before a run. “I used to do it all the time just before a track meet back at the Academy…” Recovering her momentum as she spun out her lie, she further explained, “I’d get so focused on the race that…”
“I understand,” Manuele interjected with a friendly smile. “So…what are you going to do when we get to Earth?”
Pausing for a moment, Denise responded, “I was planning on going to Rome…pray at the Tomb of the Saints.”
“Tomb of the Saints?” The New Kauaian security chief inquired.
“Yeah.” Denise smiled shyly, crossing herself. “It was built shortly after First Contact.” She explained in a reverential tone. “It’s a holy site for all three branches of the Catholic Church—and even some of the Protestant faiths. It’s where His Holiness, John-Paul III, lies—along with the cardinals who were martyred with him.”
“I see…” Manuele replied, and then, changing the subject, asked, “So…what else have you got planned?”
“I’m not sure.” Denise answered back. “I talked to my mother last night. She mentioned coming to Earth for a conference and we agreed to get together and my father lives in Tokyo. I haven’t seen him in years…”
“Sounds like the perfect opportunity for a family reunion…” Manuele began and then, seeing a dark look crossing the doctor’s face, the New Kauaian silently cursed himself, “I’m sorry.” He apologized. “I forgot. I guess I really put my foot in my mouth this time, didn’t I.”
“Oh, no! Not at all!” Denise quickly replied, shaking her head. “It’s not your fault. It’s just Dad and I never got the opportunity to get that close and well—me and my mother have just started talking to each other again. So…getting all three of us together at the same place at the same time…”
“Might be a little awkward.” Manuele interjected, nodding his head sympathetically.
“Right.” Denise affirmed.
“Well…” The New Kauaian security officer suggested, “Maybe you can get together with them at different times…perhaps get an idea as to whether they’d be comfortable with each other—and whether you’d be comfortable with them at the same place at the same time…”
“Hmmm…” Dr. Murakawa responded, “Maybe…It wouldn’t hurt to give it a try.”
“That’s my girl!” Lieutenant Atoa beamed as he glanced at the chronometer. “Oops! I better get going or I’m going to be late for my own meeting.”
“Yeah…sure…go on…I’ll be ok…” Denise muttered under her breath as she entered the turbolift and began her stretching exercises, “Nothing like a nice solitary run in the country to clear your mind…”
*******************************************************
“Approaching Sector 001.” Lieutenant Lavelle announced from his position at the helm as Captain Shelby, sitting in the center chair, nodded her head in acknowledgment. “We should arrive at Earth in a few days at our current speed.”
“Very good, Mr. Lavelle. Maintain course and speed.” Turning to Lieutenant Rysyl, the captain smiled, “Lieutenant, you might want to inform the ambassador that he’ll be leaving us soon.”
“Aye, Sir.” Anara replied, making her way to the turbolift as Manuele announced from his position at tactical.
“Captain…I’m receiving a coded signal from Starfleet Command.” He then looked up from his console, “For your eyes only.”
“I’ll take it in my ready room.” The Captain answered back as she vacated the center chair. “Commander Hobson…” She commanded as she the doors to her office slid open, “The Bridge is yours.”
Taking the seat behind her desk, Elizabeth allowed the chair to mold itself to her features before commanding, “Mr. Atoa…open the channel.” The monitor screen springing to life instantly following her security chief’s acknowledgment, the insignia of Starfleet Command was immediately replaced by the visage of Admiral J. P. Hanson, looking especially haggard. I haven’t seen the admiral look this bad…Liz mused…since the Borg Incursion. “Admiral?” The petite starship captain ventured, “Is everything all right?”
His lips turning up in an ironic grin, the balding admiral replied, “I’m not sure we’ll ever see all right again for some time, Elizabeth.” Taking a deep breath, the admiral spoke, “You’re aware, of course, of the conference being held with the Romulans at Antwerp?”
“Yes, Sir.” Liz responded, “We’re bringing Ambassador Offenhouse back for the follow-up discussions. Why? Has something happened?”
“You might say that.” Admiral Hanson answered back, a grimace on his face. “A bomb went off while the conference was in session.” Ignoring the shocked look on his protégé’s face, the admiral steamrollered, “It has since been confirmed that it was a changeling that planted the bomb.”
“My God…” Elizabeth gasped, momentarily shocked by the news. Recovering quickly, the headstrong captain asked, “What are our orders, Sir.”
Flashing a wide grin, the admiral exclaimed, “I knew I could count on you, Liz.” His grin vanishing, Hanson continued, “Admiral Leyton has made Ben Sisko head of planetary security…”
“He couldn’t have made a better choice.” Liz observed. “So…where does the Sutherland fit in?”
“We’re trying not to start a panic.” The admiral stated, “So…for now, at least, there are no changes to your orders. Proceed on to Earth. When you arrive, you’ll receive any additional orders should they be necessary.”
“Understood, Sir.” Shelby acknowledged in a grim tone. “What should I tell my crew?”
“Have your doctor carry out blood screenings of all personnel at once.” The admiral responded quickly. “We’re not sure how deeply the changelings have infiltrated our ranks.” Shaking his head glumly, the admiral ran his fingers through what was left of his hair, now an unruly tangle, “You know it’s bad, Liz, when you can’t even be sure that your best friend isn’t a changeling infiltrator.” Pausing for a moment, Hanson’s lips turned up into a warm smile, “I’m glad you’re going to be here, Liz. I’ll see you when you arrive.”
Liz sat silent in her seat for several moments watching the blank monitor screen as she tried to wrap her mind around the news that she had just heard. Shapeshifters—on Earth! I suppose it was inevitable. She sighed as she considered the implications. They’re probably on most—if not all—of the principle home worlds—you wouldn’t need a lot of them—just one or two on each world could create all sorts of chaos—and not just through sabotage. She thought, shaking her head, even the rumor of a shapeshifter being on a starship or a major installation could disrupt operations. Taking a deep breath, Liz touched her comm badge, “Dr. Murakawa, I need you to report to my ready room at once…Commander Hobson…Mr. Atoa…you’re to report to my ready room as well.” Taking a deep breath, Liz walked over to the replicator and ordered a cup of coffee. “Playtime will have to wait…” The starship captain sighed as she took her drink, “We’ve got work to do now.”
********************************************
Coming up soon...Part 2: Crisis
Side note: You get to see a bit of "naughty Liz" here--she hasn't come out to play for a while, and Liz has had it rough lately, so I thought I'd let her out for just a little bit...
********************************************
MESSAGES FROM EARTH
Part 1: Making Plans
“You did a good job with the situation on Ekos, Captain.” Admiral Ross declared, his image appearing on the desk monitor in Captain Shelby’s ready room.
Shaking her head, a derisive snort escaped Elizabeth as she made her reply, “I wish I could say that we did. To be honest, Sir…it was a clusterfrinx.” Gritting her teeth, the blonde starship captain continued her report. “Professor Davin was murdered, and Lieutenant Rysyl, Ambassador Offenhouse and I were taken prisoner. It was only through a combination of Commander Hobson and Lieutenant Atoa’s rescue teams and a good measure of luck that we were able to get out with our lives.” Pausing for a moment to take a sip from her coffee, Liz continued her morose report, “And…to make matters worse, the pro-Federation government on Ekos is probably going to fall and be replaced by one that will rescind withdraw its status as an associate member of the Federation.” No matter how you cut it, Sir…” Shelby sighed, “…it was a disaster.”
“I think you’re being too hard on yourself, Liz.” Ross replied in a paternal tone. “I know Professor Davin was very important to you…” Seeing the youthful captain taking a breath to speak, the avuncular admiral held up his hand, “No…Liz…let me finish. I know you think you’re responsible for what happened to the Professor, but you have to understand it wasn’t your fault—there was nothing you could have done about it. Nor could you have done anything about the political fallout.”
“I know you’re right, Sir” Elizabeth conceded, “And I am feeling better. It’s just that there are times…”
“I know.” The admiral replied, acknowledging the emotional weight felt by the young captain, “And I’d probably feel the same way if I were in your shoes. I know the Professor was a lot more than just a teacher to you—he was a mentor…and a friend. And I know you have damned few of those. But I think I can understand a little about how you feel. I might not be able to empathize—but I can sympathize. The Professor’s goal was a good one—one that is still attainable. I think the worst thing that could happen would be for his sacrifice to be in vain, wouldn’t you agree?”
“You’re right, Sir.” Liz answered back, nodding her head. Taking another sip of her coffee, Elizabeth’s face twisted in distaste at the flavor of the now cold beverage, “So…what happens now? Ambassador Offenhouse is wondering when he’ll be leaving. And…to be honest…” she confessed, “I’m looking forward to our next mission. The sooner I can get away from Ekos…”
“The better. I understand completely, Liz.” Ross said sympathetically. A smile appearing on his face, the admiral cleared his throat. “I think you might like these orders, but I’m afraid they call for you having to put up with Ambassador Offenhouse for a bit longer.”
“Sir?” The petite blonde captain interjected, surprised. “I’d have thought that the Federation Council would have wanted him back as soon as possible…”
“They do.” The admiral replied, his grin growing wider. “That’s where the Sutherland comes in.” Pausing for effect, Admiral Ross announced, “Your orders are to get Ambassador Offenhouse to Earth as soon as possible.”
“Earth?” Liz asked, a smile forming on her face, “Are you serious, Sir? I’d think that Starfleet Command and the Federation Council could get what they need from him through subspace rather than detailing the Sutherland on what amounts to a ferrying mission—not that I’m complaining, but still…”
“Switch to a secure channel.” The admiral ordered as his image disappeared, to be replaced by the Starfleet emblem. Moving quickly to comply, Liz touched a button on her console. The Starfleet device replaced once again by Admiral Ross’s face, the admiral cleared his throat. “What I’m about to tell you is classified—need to know only.”
“Understood, Sir.” Liz acknowledged.
“A diplomatic conference with representatives of the Romulan Empire is being held on Earth even as we speak.” Admiral Ross announced. “The main topic of the conference will center on coordinated action against the Dominion threat.” Immediately upon hearing the admiral’s words, Elizabeth sat bolt upright in her seat. “I thought that would get your attention, Liz.” Ross deadpanned. “While, even going at maximum warp, you probably won’t be able to make it on time to get the ambassador to the conference; you’ll be able to get him there in time to participate in the nuts and bolts deliberations that’ll be going on afterwards.”
“I think I see…” Liz remarked, only to be cut off by the admiral.
“Right…” Ross affirmed, nodding his head, “He’ll be able to give his insights on the situation regarding possible Dominion involvement and to answer any questions that might come up.” Repressing a yawn, the admiral concluded, “Well…you have your orders, Captain. Have a pleasant trip.”
“Thank you, Sir.” Liz replied; a grin returning to her face as the admiral’s image on the computer monitor was once again replaced by the insignia of Starfleet Command. Pressing the intercom button on her desk, Captain Shelby spoke, “Commander Hobson…report to my ready room, please. We’ve got our new orders.”
****************************************************
As the tunes from an old torch song, ‘Stormy Weather’, filled the air in Rick’s, the Sutherland’s lounge decorated to resemble a 1940’s era nightclub; Sam Lavelle took a sip from his bourbon and coke, “So…what are you going to do once we get to Earth?” He asked the dusky skinned woman sitting at the table across from him.
“Go home…” Ensign Maria Django replied as she took a sip of her drink, an Antarean Sunrise, “See the parents…maybe hit the beach. What about you?”
“Pretty much the same.” Sam replied as Alec, the piano player who also worked in hydroponics, smoothly switched to a Cole Porter tune. “I figured I’d go to Nairobi—see my father at the university…and then swing by Toronto and spend some time with my sister and her family.”
“You know…” Maria smiled shyly as she traced the edge of her glass with her finger, “…you could come to Rio with me—after you see your family, that is. We could go to Ipanema…”
“Sounds good.” Sam replied, flashing a roguish grin, “But what about this? Why don’t you come with me to Nairobi and then we can go to Rio…”
“Hmmm…” Maria smiled as she considered her answer. Finishing her drink, she replied, her voice now taking on a husky quality, “Sure…why not. Sounds like fun.”
******************************************************
Another couple, this one consisting of the Sutherland’s first officer, Christopher Hobson, and the operations officer, the lovely olive-skinned Deltan woman, Lieutenant Anara Rysyl, sat at another table in the bar, one close to the piano. Sipping her Trillian aurea, Anara asked, her lyrical voice accentuated by the Cole Porter song being played on the piano, “What do you plan to do with your shore leave, Chris?”
“I don’t know…” The diffident first officer replied in his usual nasal tone. “To be honest, I haven’t really thought about it.”
“You have family…” The beautiful Deltan suggested, “How long has it been since you’ve seen them.”
“It’s been several years…” Chris began, pausing for a moment as he took a sip of his scotch, “Not since…”
Shaking her head sadly, Anara interjected, “You mean to tell me you haven’t seen your family since…the accident?” Sighing at Hobson’s slight nod of his head, Anara declared earnestly, “Then I’d say it’s past time that you did.” Not giving her companion the chance to interrupt, the Deltan continued to speak in a gentle, yet persistent tone, “They’re your family, Chris. You’ve been punishing yourself for too long.”
“Perhaps you’re right. Maybe I should.” Hobson replied diffidently, his lips turning up into a slight smile as he saw the pleased look on his companion’s face. “What about you? What are your plans?”
Shrugging her shoulders, Anara replied with a chuckle, “I haven’t really given the matter much thought.”
“You know…” Chris began hesitatingly, “…you could…come along with me…”
“No…” Anara said, shaking her head gently, placing her hand on that of her companion’s, “I’d be intruding…this is something I think you need to do alone.”
“You’re right…” Hobson acknowledged, his usual poker face returning as he withdrew his hand from the table. “…of course. Please accept my apologies.” Finishing his drink Chris stood up, “Now…if you’ll excuse me…I think I’ll turn in for the evening.”
Watching in stunned silence as the first officer strode out of the lounge; Anara vaguely heard the muffled voice of Jadon Tol, the Sutherland’s chief engineer and best friend of the icy Hobson, “Chris…whatever am I going to do with you…”
“Huh?” The bewildered Deltan woman exclaimed as she looked up to find the Trill engineer standing next to her. “Jadon?”
“My buddy, Chris…” The roguish Trill sighed, taking the recently vacated seat across from Anara as he gestured for the volunteer waiter to bring him a mug of synth-hol. “I’ve got duty in a couple of hours.” The engineer explained, making a face as he took a tentative sip, “You know why drinking synth-hol is like making love in a canoe?”
Shaking her head in bemusement at the free-spirited Jadon, Anara answered back, “No…why?”
“They’re both frinxing too near water!” Jadon laughed, his joke eliciting an amused chuckle from his companion. Seeing that his gag had the desired effect, the Trill engineer said in a sympathetic voice, “Don’t be too hard on Chris—he’s just a…”
“He’s an ass.” Anara completed with a frown as she sipped her drink.
“Well…” Jadon quipped, “I was going to say dumbass, but…”
“I think I like dumbass better.” Anara jibed back.
“Yeah…” Jadon agreed, then, his tone gentling, he pleaded, “But don’t be too hard on him…it’s just that…”
“He just keeps pushing me back.” Anara interrupted, her humor disappearing. “He’s so afraid of allowing anyone close to him…”
“I know…” Jadon concurred and then, leaning close, he spoke in a voice barely louder than a whisper, “Look, Chris has always been the sort who kept people at a distance. When Natalie died…” Tol explained, “It was even worse. He drew so far into himself that I wasn’t sure he’d ever make his way out. It took a long time for him to finally come to grips with what happened, and to be honest, he still hasn’t completely.”
“I understand…” The Deltan woman replied, repressing a shudder, “I felt the pain that he went through…”
“Yeah…” Jadon conceded, “Your empathic link with him has probably made you closer to him than anyone else—including me—and I’ve known him longer than anyone else here.”
Shaking her head sadly, Anara interjected, “Not that much closer. So much of him is still walled off.” Sighing deeply, the Deltan woman added somberly, “And I don’t know if I can—or even if I want to—put up with the emotional baggage…”
“You shouldn’t have to.” Jadon declared solemnly, “Chris has let this go on for far too long.” Smiling a roguish grin at the lovely Deltan sitting across from him, the Trill engineer remarked, “You know, maybe what he needs instead of a shoulder to cry on is a good swift kick in the pants.”
Flashing a wicked grin of her own, Anara rejoined, “Ok, Jadon…What do you have in that twisted mind of yours?”
*****************************************************
“What are your plans, Mr. Varok?” Ensign Candy Johnson asked, looking up from her computer console in the astrophysics lab.
“Excuse me, Mr. Johnson?” The elderly Vulcan responded in his usual flat tone.
“Your plans…when we get to Earth?” The bubbly ensign replied, “What are you going to do? I mean I heard that we’re going to be laid up for a week or so as they do some work on the main deflector array…”
Long experienced in the human trait of incessant curiosity, Varok, bowing down to the inevitable, decided to indulge the junior officer, “I plan to meet my granddaughter—T’Pren. She is a student at Starfleet Academy.”
“Oh?” Candy responded, much to the chagrin of her Vulcan superior, “What year’s she in? What’s her specialty?”
Taking a deep breath, Varok continued to humor the young human. “She is a third year cadet.” He declared; his voice and manner not reflecting the pride that he felt deep within him for her and her accomplishment, “And is a science specialist.”
“Just like her grandfather!” Candy interjected with an infectious grin. “You must be proud of her.”
“Pride is an emotional response.” Varok replied flatly, “And as such is illogical. But…” he added, “I do take…satisfaction…in her accomplishing her goals in the manner she has done.”
“You should.” Candy responded with a wicked grin as she returned to her work, “You have every right to feel that way.”
Raising his eyebrow, Mr. Varok returned to his duties, silent as he remembered the conversation he had with his daughter, T’Prel, several hours earlier concerning T’Pren and some recent…illogical…decisions that she had made. Decisions that affected not just her life, but also the family honor. Decisions that he intended to discuss with his wayward granddaughter as soon as possible.
**************************************************************
The trite saying that goes ‘Time heals all wounds’ more often that not is a truism, Liz noted as the grief she had felt several days ago over the loss of Professor Davin had by now, for the most part, gone, leaving behind mostly happy memories with only the occasional painful twinge to remind her of his passing. Now, with the Sutherland’s arrival at Earth drawing nearer, Liz began to make plans. Luxuriating in her tub, gently scented soapy bubbles tingling her skin, she smiled her first truly contented smile in days as she sipped champagne from a long crystal flute. “Computer…” The hedonistic captain ordered, “Establish a subspace communication with Sandy Moore and Jason Phillips…their subspace idents should be in my personal database.”
“Idents confirmed.” The computer replied, “Connection made.”
“Display visual…bathroom wall monitor.” Liz ordered as she set her glass down on the side of the tub next to her.
“Lizzy!” The woman, a stunning blonde wearing a blue bathrobe and lying on a large double bed grinned widely as she recognized the Starfleet captain. “Jason! Come over here! It’s Lizzy!”
“Hey Liz! Long time!” The man, a dark haired man with a goatee and wearing a towel around his waist, smiled broadly as he entered the room, joining his companion on the bed. Leering, he quipped in an English accent, “You’re looking good—but aren’t you out of uniform?”
“Yeah…” Sandy interjected, speaking in a sultry voice, “You look absolutely scrumptious."
“Hmmm…you two look delicious yourselves.” Liz purred as she took a sip from her champagne.
“How long has it been, love?” Jason asked.
“Eight…maybe nine months…” Liz answered back.
“I can’t believe it’s been so long.” Sandy exclaimed, “So, Baby…what’s up?”
“Yeah…darling…” Jason remarked, “I hope it’s nothing bad.”
“No…” Liz replied, her body stiffening momentarily before she banished—for now—the memories of Professor Davin that had suddenly rushed into her mind. “In fact…it’s good news. The Sutherland should be at Earth in a few days or so…”
“Hey!” Sandy cried out, “That means you’ll be able to make it to Raul’s party!”
“That’s right.” Jason chimed in, “You have to come, Liz…you know it’s not the same without you.”
“Yeah.” Sandy interjected, “I remember the last time…”
“That was fun, wasn’t it?” Liz quipped, “I don’t think I ever…”
“Me either…” Sandy giggled.
“So…” Jason asked as Sandy began playing with his long hair, “We can count on you?”
“I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” Liz grinned as Jason kissed the back of Sandy’s neck. “Hmmm…” Elizabeth remarked, flashing a brief leer as she watched her friends growing more and more amorous, “I better let you go now. Looks like you two are getting ready to have some fun of your own.” Mock pouting, she added, “I wish I could join you.”
“You don’t have to go, Liz.” Jason protested as he undid Sandy’s bathrobe.
“No…don’t go.” Sandy added with a wicked grin as her sultry voice grew even more seductive, “We know how much you like to watch.”
“Mmmm…” Elizabeth purred, “Much as I’m tempted to, I’d better not tie up this subspace channel too long. But don’t worry; we’ll get together in a few days for fun and games.”
“Mmmm…We can’t wait,” Sandy replied in a husky voice as the man lying next to her continued his kisses and caresses.
“See you soon, Liz, darling.” Jason then said as he reached over his sensuous blonde partner to terminate the transmission. “Bye, love!” Sandy called out as the monitor went blank.
Taking another sip from her champagne, Liz lay back in her tub, “Hmmm…now, what should I wear to Raul’s orgy? I wore leather last time—I think this time I’ll go for lace. Maybe the Andorian spider-silk teddy that Garak made for me? Yes…that should do nicely.”
************************************************************
Walking briskly down the corridor towards the holodeck, Denise returned the greetings of various crewmembers with a courteous smile or a hello until she made out the form of Lieutenant Atoa approaching her. Fighting down the butterflies in her stomach, the doctor smiled back as the burly security officer greeted her, “Mornin’ Denise,” Manuele called out with a grin as he took in the slender Japanese woman standing before him, “Going out for your morning run?”
“Yeah…” Denise all but stammered as she felt her whole body growing warmer while in the presence of the New Kauaian.
“So…where are you jogging this time? Boston Marathon? San Francisco? The Pythian Ridge on Alpha Centauri V? The Taelian forest on Rigel VIII?
Smiling, Dr. Murakawa replied, “This time I thought I’d try out that program you loaned me…”
“The cliff trail overlooking New Honolulu?” Seeing the doctor’s head nodding in confirmation, Manuele smiled warmly, “Yeah…I used to love hiking there when I was a kid. I remember how my brother and I always got into trouble exploring the trails and caves…”
“You know…” Denise, forcing down the lump growing in her throat, ventured, “If you want…you can join me…”
Maintaining his smile, Manuele shook his head ruefully, “It’s tempting…but…I can’t right now...” He then explained, “I’ve got a departmental meeting in an hour…that gives me just enough time to get my stuff together and fire off a quick subspace letter to Mere…”
Upon hearing the name of the beautiful Ekosian security officer, Denise felt her heart sink as she all but tuned out the rest of Lt. Atoa’s words, “…but I’d like to take a rain check if that’s ok with you…” Seeing the faraway look in the doctor’s eyes, the New Kauaian inquired, a note of mild concern in his voice, “Denise? Denise? You ok? You look like you’re miles away…”
“Oh…” Dr. Murakawa, her face reddening with embarrassment as Manuele’s words brought her back, “I’m sorry…I get like this just before a run. “I used to do it all the time just before a track meet back at the Academy…” Recovering her momentum as she spun out her lie, she further explained, “I’d get so focused on the race that…”
“I understand,” Manuele interjected with a friendly smile. “So…what are you going to do when we get to Earth?”
Pausing for a moment, Denise responded, “I was planning on going to Rome…pray at the Tomb of the Saints.”
“Tomb of the Saints?” The New Kauaian security chief inquired.
“Yeah.” Denise smiled shyly, crossing herself. “It was built shortly after First Contact.” She explained in a reverential tone. “It’s a holy site for all three branches of the Catholic Church—and even some of the Protestant faiths. It’s where His Holiness, John-Paul III, lies—along with the cardinals who were martyred with him.”
“I see…” Manuele replied, and then, changing the subject, asked, “So…what else have you got planned?”
“I’m not sure.” Denise answered back. “I talked to my mother last night. She mentioned coming to Earth for a conference and we agreed to get together and my father lives in Tokyo. I haven’t seen him in years…”
“Sounds like the perfect opportunity for a family reunion…” Manuele began and then, seeing a dark look crossing the doctor’s face, the New Kauaian silently cursed himself, “I’m sorry.” He apologized. “I forgot. I guess I really put my foot in my mouth this time, didn’t I.”
“Oh, no! Not at all!” Denise quickly replied, shaking her head. “It’s not your fault. It’s just Dad and I never got the opportunity to get that close and well—me and my mother have just started talking to each other again. So…getting all three of us together at the same place at the same time…”
“Might be a little awkward.” Manuele interjected, nodding his head sympathetically.
“Right.” Denise affirmed.
“Well…” The New Kauaian security officer suggested, “Maybe you can get together with them at different times…perhaps get an idea as to whether they’d be comfortable with each other—and whether you’d be comfortable with them at the same place at the same time…”
“Hmmm…” Dr. Murakawa responded, “Maybe…It wouldn’t hurt to give it a try.”
“That’s my girl!” Lieutenant Atoa beamed as he glanced at the chronometer. “Oops! I better get going or I’m going to be late for my own meeting.”
“Yeah…sure…go on…I’ll be ok…” Denise muttered under her breath as she entered the turbolift and began her stretching exercises, “Nothing like a nice solitary run in the country to clear your mind…”
*******************************************************
“Approaching Sector 001.” Lieutenant Lavelle announced from his position at the helm as Captain Shelby, sitting in the center chair, nodded her head in acknowledgment. “We should arrive at Earth in a few days at our current speed.”
“Very good, Mr. Lavelle. Maintain course and speed.” Turning to Lieutenant Rysyl, the captain smiled, “Lieutenant, you might want to inform the ambassador that he’ll be leaving us soon.”
“Aye, Sir.” Anara replied, making her way to the turbolift as Manuele announced from his position at tactical.
“Captain…I’m receiving a coded signal from Starfleet Command.” He then looked up from his console, “For your eyes only.”
“I’ll take it in my ready room.” The Captain answered back as she vacated the center chair. “Commander Hobson…” She commanded as she the doors to her office slid open, “The Bridge is yours.”
Taking the seat behind her desk, Elizabeth allowed the chair to mold itself to her features before commanding, “Mr. Atoa…open the channel.” The monitor screen springing to life instantly following her security chief’s acknowledgment, the insignia of Starfleet Command was immediately replaced by the visage of Admiral J. P. Hanson, looking especially haggard. I haven’t seen the admiral look this bad…Liz mused…since the Borg Incursion. “Admiral?” The petite starship captain ventured, “Is everything all right?”
His lips turning up in an ironic grin, the balding admiral replied, “I’m not sure we’ll ever see all right again for some time, Elizabeth.” Taking a deep breath, the admiral spoke, “You’re aware, of course, of the conference being held with the Romulans at Antwerp?”
“Yes, Sir.” Liz responded, “We’re bringing Ambassador Offenhouse back for the follow-up discussions. Why? Has something happened?”
“You might say that.” Admiral Hanson answered back, a grimace on his face. “A bomb went off while the conference was in session.” Ignoring the shocked look on his protégé’s face, the admiral steamrollered, “It has since been confirmed that it was a changeling that planted the bomb.”
“My God…” Elizabeth gasped, momentarily shocked by the news. Recovering quickly, the headstrong captain asked, “What are our orders, Sir.”
Flashing a wide grin, the admiral exclaimed, “I knew I could count on you, Liz.” His grin vanishing, Hanson continued, “Admiral Leyton has made Ben Sisko head of planetary security…”
“He couldn’t have made a better choice.” Liz observed. “So…where does the Sutherland fit in?”
“We’re trying not to start a panic.” The admiral stated, “So…for now, at least, there are no changes to your orders. Proceed on to Earth. When you arrive, you’ll receive any additional orders should they be necessary.”
“Understood, Sir.” Shelby acknowledged in a grim tone. “What should I tell my crew?”
“Have your doctor carry out blood screenings of all personnel at once.” The admiral responded quickly. “We’re not sure how deeply the changelings have infiltrated our ranks.” Shaking his head glumly, the admiral ran his fingers through what was left of his hair, now an unruly tangle, “You know it’s bad, Liz, when you can’t even be sure that your best friend isn’t a changeling infiltrator.” Pausing for a moment, Hanson’s lips turned up into a warm smile, “I’m glad you’re going to be here, Liz. I’ll see you when you arrive.”
Liz sat silent in her seat for several moments watching the blank monitor screen as she tried to wrap her mind around the news that she had just heard. Shapeshifters—on Earth! I suppose it was inevitable. She sighed as she considered the implications. They’re probably on most—if not all—of the principle home worlds—you wouldn’t need a lot of them—just one or two on each world could create all sorts of chaos—and not just through sabotage. She thought, shaking her head, even the rumor of a shapeshifter being on a starship or a major installation could disrupt operations. Taking a deep breath, Liz touched her comm badge, “Dr. Murakawa, I need you to report to my ready room at once…Commander Hobson…Mr. Atoa…you’re to report to my ready room as well.” Taking a deep breath, Liz walked over to the replicator and ordered a cup of coffee. “Playtime will have to wait…” The starship captain sighed as she took her drink, “We’ve got work to do now.”
********************************************
Coming up soon...Part 2: Crisis
