Tales of the USS Bluefin - 2: Storms and Shadows

[TheLoneRedshirt]

(Note: This segment is continued from the bottom of page 1)

Akinola fired off orders. "Chief Brin, get a tractor beam on the lead Raider. Commander Strauss, lock phasers on the engines of targets two and three. Wait for my command to fire."

On the tactical plotter, the three Orion ships approached in a reverse delta formation, two ships seeking flanking positions while the Kaijupran took the more direct approach. Akinola shook his head. "These guys must get their tactics from holo-novels."

The flanking Raiders fired phasers at the Bluefin, which in turn, fired her heavier phasers at the passing ships. The cutter's shields flared but held steady under the Orion fire. One Raider was not so fortunate as the Bluefin's sustained fire collapsed the rear shields and severely damaged the sub-light engines of the Orion ship. The second raider turned to make another pass.

"Chief, activate tractor beams!" barked Akinola.

The Kaijupran was rocked as the cutter's powerful tractor beams took firm hold of the ship. On the bridge of the Raider, Grand Supreme Tranji Elix raged at his crew. "Idiots! Break free from that tractor beam! Fire weapons!"

The helmsman turned to Elix. "My Lord, we will overload our engines if we try."

"Then overload them!" Elix screamed as he moved forward, grabbing the hapless helmsman and pulling him from his seat. Elix grabbed the throttle controls and shoved them to their limits.

The Bluefin rocked as the Raider sought to break away from the tractor beams. "Chief, maintain those tractor beams! Commander Strauss, get a firing solution on target three." ordered Akinola.

"Target three preparing for another attack run. Shields holding at 90%" advised T'Ser.

"Noted! Helm, prepare for 'bullwhip' maneuver. Chief, on my mark, deactivate tractors." Akinola watched the tactical plotter as the third ship came at their starboard side. "Looks like they're going after the tractor emitters, but they're going to be a bit late. Helm, engage bullwhip - Now! Chief, disengage tractors!"

From an outside perspective, the Bluefin turned sharply to port under full impulse, pulling the straining Kaijupran with it. As the cutter completed the maneuver, the tractor beams holding the Raider cut off, releasing it. The Orion ship flew off as if shot from a sling, the whiplash effect and its over-throttled engines causing it to tumble out of control, its inertial compensators overloaded and its crew out of the battle.

The tactical plotter showed the third and final Raider veering off and heading back in-system. Akinola grinned. "Looks like they're tired of playing. Status on the lead ship?"

T'Ser looked up from her sensor hood, a smile on her face. "Sensors show they're alive but out of it. They must have pulled better than 16 g's. Lucky for them Orions are tougher than they are smart."

"Hey! I heard that!" protested Chief Brin.

"Sometimes the truth hurts, Solly," said Akinola. "T'Ser track that Romulan ship. Navigator, prepare a pursuit course, Helm stand by for maximum warp."

**************************

Voladek pondered what happened behind them. "Why would a Federation vessel intercede on our behalf?"

"It is a border cutter, it is tasked with protecting civilian vessels from pirates, such as the Orions. Perhaps it was merely doing its duty?," suggested T'Vash.

"We're not in Federation space, T'Vash. Why would a Federation ship jump into Orion space?" asked Tor'dex.

Voladek shook his head. "There are no consequences. Maintain evasive pattern until we clear the system, them go to maximum warp." he looked at T'Vash. "Time until we clear the system?"

T'Vash checked her instruments. "Five minutes."

*****************************

"I have them sir. They're still headed out of system at .3c," said T'Ser.

"Very well. Transfer their course to the navigator. Mr. Bralus, ahead full impulse. Commander Strauss, stand by on those Mark 22's."

****************************

"Sub-commander! The Federation cutter is pursuing us!" exclaimed T'Vash. "At their present speed, they will intercept us before we clear the system."

Voladek looked grim. "Tor'dex, see if you can get the cloaking device on line. T'Vash, bring the disruptors on line."

"Sir?" she asked, incredulously. "How are we going to fight off that ship?"

"We beat the odds before, T'Vash. We only need to do it once more."

**************************

"T'Ser, open a hailing frequency to that ship," said Akinola.

T'Ser tapped contacts at her board. "Channel open, sir."

Akinola stood. "This is Captain Joseph Akinola in commander of the Federation Border Cutter USS Bluefin to Romulan vessel. Please respond."

**************************

T'Vash's eyes widened as they received the hail. "They know who we are!"

"Obviously," said Voladek dryly.

"Should we respond?" asked Tor'dex.

Voladek rubbed his jaw in thought. "No. I imagine their captain is trying to slow us down. Ignore their hails, at least for now."

"How did they find out about us?" asked Tor'dex.

Voladek shook his head. "Obviously, we are not the only ones who have spies."

**********************************

"Not very talkative, are they?" observed T'Ser.

Akinola sighed. "It would appear not. Commander Strauss, do you have a firing solution."

"Still out of range for a lock, sir."

"Captain, they'll be clear for warp speed in 30 seconds," said T'Ser.

Aknola reseated himself and steepled his fingers. He came to a decision. "Commander Strauss. Fire two Mark 22 torpedoes!"

Two bright projectiles erupted from the cutter's forward torpedo tube and sped toward the fleeing Romulan scout ship.

****************************

"Two torpedoes, inbound!" T'Vash said, her voice edging toward panic.

Tor'dex turned to Voladek. "Countermeasures are still off-line!"

"Come hard about, 180 degrees," ordered Voladek. The scout ship made a tight turn, back toward the Bluefin.

*******************************

Akinola grunted, admiring the audacious move of the Romulan vessel. "Very good," he murmured. "You gambled that we didn't have a lock and now you want to get inside our torpedo minimum range." Aloud he said, "Target their engines with phasers, commander. We want them intact!"

Strauss, frowned over her weapons station. "I can't get a lock on him, sir. He's too agile."

"Chief, stand by on tractor beams," said the captain.

Brin shook his head. "He's smart, captain. His evasive maneuvers are totally random. I can't get a tractor lock."

Akinola tapped his fist on his chin. "Commander Strauss, have another Mark 22 loaded, but disable the proximity safeties."

Strauss whirled and stared at the captain, "Sir?"

"Do it!" He tapped his com badge. "Bridge to engineering."

"Engineering, Gralt here."

"Commander, I need you to divert as much power as you can spare to the shields - tie into the mains if you need to. I need about 120% in sixty seconds."

"Well, thanks for the warning," groused the Tellarite engineer. "Anything else you need in the next minute?"

"Less mouth, more movement, Gralt," Akinola out. "Mr. Bralus, do your best to keep up with that ship and close the gap. Commander Strauss, when I give the order, fire that torpedo at point blank range."

Wide eyed, Strauss turned her attention back to the weapons station. "Aye, sir."

****************************

Voladek watched the tactical plotter anxiously. While they were more maneuverable, the Federation cutter was faster and beginning to gain ground, even with their wild evasive movements.

"Their helmsman is very skilled," remarked Tor'dex.

"Let us hope their weapons officer is less so," countered Voladek. "T'Vash, continue evasive maneuvers, but take us back toward the system perimeter. Tor'dex, begin firing the aft disruptors at them. It may slow them down some."

*********************************

The Bluefin rocked slightly as disruptor bolts glanced off of their shields.

T'Ser looked up from her station. "They appear to be taking random shots at us, probably to slow us down. Shields holding firm."

"Alright, I've had about enough of this." Akinola tapped his com badge. "Gralt, I need those shields boosted, now!"

"You've got it, but we'll overload something, mark my words!" said Gralt.

"Consider them marked. Akinola, out." He leaned forward in his command chair. "Distance to target?"

"We are within 300,000 kilometers," responded T'Ser.

"Okay, XO, can you get a torpedo lock?"

Strauss shook her head. "Negative. But blast effect should be sufficient at this range." She paused, then added, "Against us, too, sir."

"Understood, commander," he took a deep breath, "Fire torpedo!"

********************************

 

[DavidFalkayn]

Nice three way fight. Akinola did a good job in using what he had to apply non-lethal force against both the Orions and the Romulans.

As for the Orions--the Orion who kidnapped and raped the praetor's daughter has to be a thousand kinds of stupid. Once this gets back to Romulus, I wouldn't be surprised if the next Romulan ship(s) to come out of that wormhole is a flotilla of D'deridex warbirds looking for payback. Akinola might just find that it's going to get very crowded out in his neck of the woods!

And Strauss thought that border patrol work would be boring...

 

[BrotherBenny]

DavidFalkayn said:
Once this gets back to Romulus, I wouldn't be surprised if the next Romulan ship(s) to come out of that wormhole is a flotilla of D'deridex warbirds looking for payback.

The Mogai are even more powerful. I wouldn't be surprised if the Romulans launched an outright attack on the Syndicate, to set an example.

Keep it coming LoneRedshirt!

 

[Gibraltar]

DavidFalkayn said:
Nice three way fight. Akinola did a good job in using what he had to apply non-lethal force against both the Orions and the Romulans.

Agreed, very well done. Way to keep the tension elevated and the action quotient high. I very much appreciated the brief heart-to-heart between Strauss and Akinola regarding the mission parameters. That's the kind of good XO/CO interaction we haven't seen in the last two canon TV series.

 

[TheLoneRedshirt]

Thanks for the kind words. Yes, the Orions have definitely stepped in it. Just how far will the Romulans go to satisfy their sense of justice? Hmmmmm. Stay tuned.

I'm enjoying exploring the relationship between Akinola and Strauss - mentor/student , Old school/cutting edge - there is growing respect but also an underlying tension.

 

[TheLoneRedshirt]

The Mark 22 "Rat Trap" torpedo quickly closed the distance between the Bluefin and the Romulan scout ship. It never gained a solid lock on the vessel, but that really did not matter. The torpedo was not designed to hit an enemy vessel, but to detonate near enough for the resulting electro-magnetic pulse to disable it by overloading its shields, sensors and control systems. Mark 22's were ineffective against most capitol warships because of their heavy shielding. The Romulan vessel did not fall into this category.

The blinding flash on the viewscreen caused the three Romulan Tal Shiar operatives to wince in pain. Immediately, systems failed and emergency lighting blinked on. "Damage report!" demanded Voladek as he rubbed his stinging eyes.

T'Vash blinked, regaining her focus as she began to scan the instruments. She muttered a curse under her breath and replied, "Almost all systems are off-line. Propulsion, weapons, shields and sensors are down. I've lost helm control too."

"What was that?" asked Tor'dex.

"Probably some sort of pulse-wave device - old technology, but effective," replied Voladek. "See if you can get secondary systems operating."

T'Vash shook her head in frustration. "No good. All circuits are fused. We have emergency lighting and hull integrity - that's about all. Life support is also off-line although reserves are functioning. We have about 4 hours before we run out of air." She turned to face Voladek, "We have no power and no defenses."

Voladek took a breath and leaned back in his chair. "So. It would seem we have been caught."

"Your orders, sir?" asked Tor'dex, more formally than usual. This touched Voladek in a strange way. He smiled and clapped his comrade on the shoulder. "I think my time for giving orders is at an end, old friend. I'm sorry I could not get us home." He straightened in his chair. "There is, of course, one final duty we must perform."

******************************

"What's our status?" queried Captain Akinola.

"Long-range sensors are down, shields are down to 25%, besides that, other than a few reports of minor system glitches and power outages, we're in good shape," replied T'Ser.

"What about the Romulan ship?"

"Scanning with short-range sensors now," T'Ser responded as she bent over the sensor hood. "I have them . . . bearing 126, mark 17. They appear to be adrift."

"Helm, move us in, ahead slow. Commander Strauss, target their weapons and engines, but do not fire unless they do."

"Already targeted, sir," replied Strauss.

Akinola smiled. "Thank you XO." He tapped his combadge. "Bridge to transporter room one."

"Transporter room, Delerioux here."

"Jean, get a lock on the occupants of that vessel and stand by to transport on my order."

"Aye, sir. Standing by."

"Chief Brin, have a security detail meet me in the transporter room. XO, you have the conn." Akinola rose from his chair as Strauss moved to the center seat and Brin moved to weapons control. "T'Ser, contact me if there is any change in the status of that ship." He then tapped his combadge to make one more call.

********************************

"We must hurry, I have no doubt they will try to board us," said Voladek. He clenched his teeth, sickened and shamed by his failure. At least he would not have to face the Praetor and his daughter would now die honorably rather than live in continual shame and torment at the hands of the Orions.

"T'Lera is still heavily sedated, Voladek. She will feel nothing," said Tor'dex.

Voladek nodded his appreciation. "Thank you. Now, let's finish this." He opened a panel on his control console. He reached in and grabbed a red handle. Facing his comrades, he said, "Thank you for your friendship and your loyalty." Voladek twisted the handle and pulled.

Nothing happened.

*********************************

Inga Strauss drummed her fingers on the arm of the command chair. "T'Ser, time until we're in transporter range?"

"About two minutes, commander."

"Any change in the status of that ship?"

T'Ser frowned slightly and popped the sensor hood with her hand. Shaking her head slightly, she responded, "Sensors are still glitchy, but best I can tell they are totally without power."

"Okay," said Strauss. "Helm, when we get in transporter range, bring us to full stop."

"Aye, sir."

T'Ser turned with a questioning raised eyebrow. "What?"

"You do know that Romulans prefer death to capture, don't you?" asked Struass.

"I have heard that."

"Well, I'm pretty sure they'll try to go out in a blaze of glory, if they can. Hopefully our little fireworks display took away that option for them."

"But just to be on the safe side," began T'Ser.

"We keep our distance," finished Strauss.

*****************************

Voladek reset the self destruct mechanism and tried to trigger it again, with no success. For a moment, he simply stared at the red handle, incredulous.

"Voladek, we could set a couple of disruptors on overload," offered Tor'dex.

Voladek smiled sadly. "They'll likely be fused as well." He breathed in and spoke with conviction. "No, my friends, this is fate. It seems we are destined to face our Federation pursuers. You did not know this, but I counseled the director to seek their assistance from the beginning. It would seem that I may get my way after all."

***************************

"Strauss to transporter room one."

"Akinola here, XO, go ahead."

"We're holding position just inside transporter range."

"Thank you XO. Transporter room out." The captain turned to 1st class petty officer Delerioux. "Jean, enable weapons filter and bring them aboard."

Standing beside the captain, Dr. Baxter whispered, "Joseph, I don't think I'm ready . . ."

Akinola cut him off and whispered, "You're my CMO, Doc, and I need you. Right here, right now."

The transporter hum began to grow louder and five forms began to materialize on the dais. Two security crewmen held phasers at the ready. As the transport completed, three figures stood while two lay prone. One of the standing figures took a step forward. "I am Sub-Commander Voladek. It is imperative that I speak to your commanding officer."

******************************

"You seem to know a great deal about our operation, Captain," said Voladek. He was seated in the wardroom with Akinola, Strauss and two security crewmen standing watch.

Akinola chose not to take the bait. "What I do know, sub-commander, is that you and your crew entered Federation space in violation of treaty accords, you have destroyed two Orion Raiders and killed their crew, abducted an Orion prince, and fired on my ship. Those are the pertinent facts for the moment."

Voladek replied calmly, "And, as you well know, those same Orions were involved in the abduction of a Romulan citizen. We were engaged in a rescue mission which, unfortunately, went awry. We merely sought to evade you, captain, not cause you or your ship any harm."

Akinola regarded the Romulan for a moment. "Sub-commander, I'm curious. How did a group of thugs and pirates like the Orions manage to kidnap your Praetor's daughter?"

To his credit, Voladek did not react, at least not visibly. He smiled. "It is as I thought, then. I won't insult you by asking how you came by this information. Likewise, I hope you understand that I cannot divulge all of the information surrounding this incident. Suffice it to say that there was a . . . 'security breakdown' that has been addressed."

Akinola nodded. He did not expect to learn more, nor did he really care. "Sub-commander Voladek, let me get to the point. We have a very volatile situation here. Your actions are technically an act of war. Personally, I have no love for the Orion syndicate and I can understand why your Praetor would want his daughter back. But your actions have caused some serious problems and I find myself in the unhappy position of trying to clean up this mess. So, here's what's going to happen. One, you are going to give me the exact coordinates of the wormhole in the Molari Badlands. Two, you and your crew, along with the Praetor's daughter, will be given safe passage back to Romulan space. Three, we will keep Lortho Elix . . ."

Voladek's eyes flared with anger, "That is not acceptable!"

Akinola stared at Voladek coldly. "These are not negotiations, sub-commander. I am not a diplomat. Nor am I an intelligence officer. My job is to keep the peace in this sector of space. You have disrupted that peace. I don't give a damn what's acceptable to you!" he leaned forward in his chair, then spoke again in a quieter but somehow more threatening tone. "Do you know of the USS Kilimanjaro, sub-commander?"

Voladek felt his stomach twist, but decided to tell the truth. "Yes captain, I know of that ship."

"The official story is that a crazy, renegade Klingon was responsible for its destruction. The captain and most of the crew were killed. The captain - he was a close friend of mine, did you know that?"

"I am sorry for your loss."

"Is that so? Well sub-commander, did you have anything to do with that 'incident'?"

"Did I? No, captain. It was a stupid plan doomed to failure that I argued against."

"Really? How noble of you." Akinola leaned forward across the table. "Understand this, Sub-commander Voladek. Right now, I don't give a damn about you, your Praetor or 'stable relations between our two governments'. You will cooperate with me fully, or I promise that I will personally deliver you back to the Orions. You, your crew and the Praetor's daughter."

Voladek was quiet for a moment. He heard truth with no bluster in Akinola's words. It did not frighten him, but it gave him pause. Finally he spoke. "Captain, I will give you the coordinates to the wormhole, but I must tell you, if you seek to take us through to Romulan space, you may receive a rather rude reception."

"Let me worry about that," said Akinola as he rose from the table.

*********************************

Lortho Elix groaned as he regained consciousness. He felt light-headed and his eyes were slow to focus. He tried to gain some sense of his whereabouts. He vaguely remembered being bound up on the Romulan ship but this place seemed different. He sat up slowly and his eyes began to clear. Then he heard a voice.

"Hello, Lortho."

Elix looked up. Standing before him was a familiar figure dressed in a Starfleet uniform. "Well, if it isn't my cousin Solly, playing soldier. I suppose this means that you caught up with the Romulans that kidnapped me."

"Actually, we're just helping them along, Lortho. Seems the family has gotten itself in way over its head. I imagine the Praetor will be very happy to meet you, of course. You've always been good at explaining things."

Lortho sneered at Solly. "You were always a poor liar, Solly. Just another weak character trait on your part. But then, you always have been weak - just like your father."

Solly shrugged. "Well, that's your opinion of course, which I rate just a bit lower than your intelligence. But really, I just wanted to stop by and see if you were awake."

Elix snorted, "Yeah, Solly, you pathetic slis'pul. Wide awake."

Solly smiled. "Good!" Then he slammed a lightning fast punch into the larger Orion's face. The sound of crunching bone and cartilage reverberated in the compact cell. Elix staggered back, dark red blood pouring from his nostrils. He shook his head and roared in rage and pain, lunging for Solly. Brin brought a snap-kick squarely into the crotch of Elix, who doubled over, wretching and convulsing in agony. The chief waited for Elix to recover somewhat, the larger Orion's fury overshadowing pain and prudence. Again he sought to rush at Brin. This time, the chief swept Elix's legs out from under him. As the large man hit the deck hard, Brin kicked him in the head. Elix returned to his previous, unconscious state.

Chief Brin stepped back out of the cell and reactivated the force field. He tugged on his tunic, brushed his sleeves and walked to the brig's monitoring desk where a crewman sat.

"Everything okay, chief?" asked the crewman.

"Just fine, Steiner. Oh, do me a favor - check on the prisoner in cell 3. It looks like he fell down and hurt himself."

"Sure, chief," Steiner said as he reactivated the monitor for cell 3.

*****************************

Akinola returned to the bridge with Strauss. "Commander, set a course for the coordinates Voladek gave us - best warp speed that Gralt will allow. I don't want these Roms on here any longer than necessary. I'm heading to sickbay to check on the girl."

Strauss nodded, then asked, "Captain, what you said just now about turning the Romulans back over to the Orions - were you serious?"

"Did we get the information we needed?"

"Well, yes."

"Then what does it matter?"

**********************************

 

[Gibraltar]

Very well done! Akinola handled that masterfully, and I’m beginning to see where decades of service in the Fleet have given the captain razor-keen instincts, even when he’s playing the game above his pay-grade.

And the scene between Solly and Elix was just awesome. That’s how one would expect Orions to handle interpersonal conflicts. Just like the Soprano’s.

”… Oh, do me a favor - check on the prisoner in cell 3. It looks like he fell down and hurt himself."

That’s priceless!

And the last exchange between Akinola and Strauss was as amusing as it was chilling. The captain doesn’t strike me as the type of person you’d want to push very far.

You’re doing a great job of showing us little facets of the character’s personalities in every interaction, and I’m thoroughly enjoying it.

 

[DavidFalkayn]

Akinola does seem to have a hard edge. I've got a feeling though that Bluefin is going to find itself in much deeper waters soon--the Romulans aren't going to let this go lightly.

I would also like to add my kudos as regards your developing your characters--you do a very good job of indirect characterization.

 

[hellsgate]

Nicely done. Bring on the Federation Calvalry. The Orions are going to be walking funny for a month or two or three once the Romulans & Federation have had their fill.

 

[CeJay]

Not only did you write some dynamic and compelling action sequenences but you also upped the tension drastically. (I held my breath when the Romulans where going to blow themselves up)

Akinola's resolve was exemplary. I like this guy! Now I'm filled with anticipation to find out what will happen next. Another showdown? I hope so ...

 

[TheLoneRedshirt]

Thanks for the comments, guys. I appreciate them!

I enjoy exploring and developing Akinola's character. He does have a hard edge to him, although he often displays an almost paternal regard for his crew. In some ways he's more of a beat cop than Starfleet officer. He doesn't play politics and he has no interest (or chance!) in being promoted to flag rank. As I said in the first story, I visualize the actor Morgan Freeman when I write Akinola. I hear Freeman's voice and see his face - one of my all-time favorite actors. If you've ever seen him in the movie, "Se7en," you're seeing my vision of Akinola. Next to Akinola, T'Ser is my favorite. In her case, I see Jorja Fox who plays Sara Sidle on CSI. T'Ser is brilliant, a bit nerdy, and sometimes volatile with her emotions. I like Strauss, too, (more than I thought I would) but don't have a particular actress in mind for her. I just visualize a pretty, petite, young-looking woman with braided blond hair and a very slight German accent - an over achiever who needs a bit more confidence and experience. To be honest, her friendship with T'Ser surprised me. That just developed along the way.

After I conclude "Storms and Shadows," I plan on taking our crew back to a more "normal" Border Service mission, but one with a lot of danger and action (I hope!). It will take place about 18 months before the first two stories. You'll meet the former XO, Commander Dale McBride, who will figure prominently in the tale.

Thank you very much for reading the "Tales of the USS Bluefin." More of "Storms and Shadows" coming soon.

 

[TheLoneRedshirt]

Captain Akinola entered sickbay to check on the Praetor's daughter, T'Lera. He spotted a corpsman and approached him. "Trelix, how's the young lady?"

Corpsman Trelix turned and nodded. "She's doing very well, sir. All of her vital signs are strong. We've cleared up her bruises and abrasions."

"Has she been awake?"

"No sir. The sedative in her system is long-acting. Doc said it would be better to let her sleep it off rather than try to counter-act it."

Akinola nodded. "Okay. Let me know when she does wake up. Where's Doc?"

"I believe he's in his quarters, sir."

Akinola frowed slightly at that. "Very well. Carry on, Corpsman."

Akinola left sickbay and headed to the opposite side of the level to Baxter's quarters. He pressed the door buzzer.

At first, there was no response. Akinola was about to leave to check the wardroom, when the door slid open. Baxter stood in the doorway, his face looking pale and haggard. Dark circles beneath his eyes gave him a haunted look. He gave a weak smile. "Joseph, what is it? Trelix is on duty if you need anything."

"Actually, Calvin, I went by to check on the Romulan girl but wanted to see how you're doing."

Baxter raised and lowered an eyebrow in a nervous gesture. "Well, I honestly don't know, Joseph." He turned around and went back into his quarters. Akinola followed. Baxter took a seat on his bunk while Akinola pulled up a chair and sat down near him. For a long moment, neither spoke. Finally, Baxter took a long, shuddering breath. "Joseph, I am so sorry . . ."

Akinola reached out and gently grabbed the older man's shoulder. "Calvin, there's no need to apologize. You couldn't help what happened - you weren't in control."

Baxter hit the mattress in frustration. "That's the problem captain - I. Was. Not. In. Control." He swallowed hard and looked at the captain intently. "I'm a surgeon and a Starfleet officer. If I'm not in control, then I'm worse than useless - I'm a danger to this ship and crew."

"Doc, Sarnek said he was able to eliminate the Romulan conditioning from your mind. You don't have to worry about that any more."

Baxter shook his head. "I wish I had as much confidence in that as Mr. Sarnek." another, shaky breath. "Joseph, I believe it would be best for me to resign my commission."

Akinola looked at Baxter for a long moment before replying. "Do you remember how you patched me up after that raid on Prentis IV about five years ago."

Baxter looked puzzled for a moment at the change of subject. "Well, yes, of course I do. You were in pretty bad shape when Commander McBride got you back to te ship. For the life of me, I still don't know what you thought you were doing trying to intervene in a Nausican drug smuggling operation . . ."

Akinola grinned and waved his hand for Baxter to stop. "Okay, okay, it was dumb for me to go down there. But my point is, that after the surgery and dealing with the pain and rehab - I seriously thought about hanging it up and retiring. Do you remember what you told me?"

Baxter closed his eyes and rubbed them. "Joseph, I've said a lot of things to you over these past few years. Perhaps you could freshen my memory?"

"I was lying in one of your damn bio-beds, feeling sorry for myself. It may have been the pain, it may have been the drugs or my own lack of character. I guess that doesn't matter. What does matter is what you told me: 'Joseph, don't let the pain decide for you. Take six months, get past the situation, then if you want to retire, go ahead.'"

"I didn't realize I talked so much," groused Baxter.

"Calvin, it was good advice then, it's good advice now. I was able to get past that pretty quickly, thanks to you, and I'm still here. You, well, it may take a while longer, but I believe you can get through this." He straightened in his chair. "Why not take a leave of absence? Hell, you've got plenty of leave time accumulated. Visit family, see a counselor, maybe play some golf. But give this time, Calvin, give this time."

Baxter bowed his head for a moment. Akinola wondered if he had nodded off, but he momentarily raised his head and looked at Akinola, his expression still haunted. "Okay, Joseph. I will do that."

*******************************

The Bluefin dropped out of warp as they approached the Molari Badlands. Commander Strauss, in the center seat, began to give orders to the bridge crew. "Mr. Bane, I need a sensor sweep if you please."

"Yes ma'am. Long range sensors are still off-line. Short range scans show no vessels in the vicinity, ion storm intensity at level 2, gravimetric shear is negligible."

"Very well. Mr. Sarnek, maintain present course and heading, ahead one half impulse."

"One half impulse, aye," replied Sarnek.

"Let's get this over with," she muttered to herself.

Undetected, two other vessels, both concealed by cloaking devices, followed the Bluefin into the Badlands.

***************************

" . . . And so, admiral, that's pretty much it to this point. We're entering the Badlands and should reach the coordinates of the wormhole in about four hours," said Akinola, as he sat at the desk in his quarters.

On the viewscreen, Admiral Bateson looked serious. "Captain, I'm still not crazy about this. Proceed with extreme caution. If you detect any other Romulan vessels, get out of there pronto! Head back here and we'll sort this out some other way."

"Oh come on, Admiral, I've always wanted to go up against a Romulan Warbird," joked Akinola.

"Not funny, Joseph. I'm serious! You did a remarkable job in getting those Roms before the Oreos did, but don't push your luck." Bateson took a calming breath. "Now, have you considered how you'll send them back through the wormhole since you disabled their ship? You can't exactly take them through in the Bluefin, you know."

"I've already thought about that, sir. We'll let them take a type 6 shuttle through. Hopefully they can communicate with their friends on the other side before they get blown out of the sky."

Bateson grunted. "Well, I don't have any better suggestions. But the bean-counters at fleet aren't going to be happy about losing a shuttle that way."

"Sorry about that," said Akinola.

"No you're not. Get this done and return to base, captain. You and your crew could use a little time off. Bateson, out."

The viewscreen returned to an image of the Border Service insignia. Akinola picked up his coffee mug and leaned back in his chair, running through his mind all the things that could go very wrong.

********************************

Lt. Bane turned to Commander Strauss. "Ma'am? We're at the designated coordinates."

"Full stop, Mr. Sarnek. Mr. Bane, scan for signs of the wormhole."

Bane turned to his sensor hood, making fine adjustments. He was silent for several moments, then a smile formed on his face. "Definite signs consistent with a quantum singularity in this area of space."

Strauss walked over to Bane's station. "Is there any way to tell the last time it was 'open'?"

He turned to her, making eye contact. He has very nice eyes, she thought, then mentally chastised herself. Stay focused, Inga!

"Unfortunately, no, at least not with our instruments. Maybe a science vessel or explorer could, but we're not set up for that."

Strauss nodded. "Will we have any warning when it does reappear?"

"Oh yes, we'll pick up a massive surge on this scale," he said pointing to a line on his display. "It will also be quite visible on the viewscreen." He maintained his gaze into her eyes. She quickly averted her stare, feeling somewhat embarassed.

"Thank you, Mr. Bane. Let me know immediately of any change." she returned to the center seat.

Suddenly, the proximity alert began to sound. Bane turned back to his sensors, then looked back at Strauss and spoke urgently. "Two ships decloaking to port and starboard!"

"Shields!" she commanded, simultaneously hitting the red alert switch on the command chair. Immediately, the bridge lighting changed to red and the alert klaxon sounded throughout the ship. She hit the inter-ship switch. "All hands, man your battle stations. Captain Akinola to the bridge." She turned to the viewscreen, trying to get a glimpse of the vessels. "I need an ID on those ships!" she called to Bane. But before he could reply, she saw one of the interloping vessels on the screen.

"Oh, hell no!" she said.

*************************************

 

[DavidFalkayn]

I have a feeling Akinola is about to be reminded of an old saying: "Be careful what you wish for..."

That was a very poignant scene you wrote between Baxter and the captain--the history these characters share is a rich one.

Now you've got me on pins and needles waiting for the next part...

 

[Gibraltar]

I’m right there with David… if these are Warbirds… bad things, man… baaaaad things.

Nicely done with Akinola and Baxter. In just a brief segment between these two men, you demonstrated the depth of feeling they share, and the long bonds of friendship between them. A lot was left unsaid by both of them, as is often the case with good, long-term friends.

 

[TheLoneRedshirt]

Akinola charged onto the bridge less than a minute after the ship went to red alert. What he saw on the viewscreen stopped him in his tracks. "Report," he said, sharply.

Strauss stood up from the command chair and turned to face him. "They de-cloaked just moments ago and are holding position port and starboard at about 10 thousand klicks."

Akinola turned his attention to Strauss. "De-cloaked?"

She nodded. Her expression was a mix of puzzlement and irritation. Akinola returned his gaze to the viewscreen. The distinctive image of a Defiant class starship was center screen. He could clearly make out the name and registry, USS Shadow, NCC-80166. Akinola moved forward to the command chair. "Mr. Bane, do you have positive ID on those ships?" asked the captain.

"Yes sir. IFF transponders positively indicate two Defiant class gunships, the USS Shadow and the USS Spectre." replied Bane.

"And you're sure they were cloaked?" pressed Akinola.

"No question, sir." said Bane. His panel beeped and he turned to check it. "We're being hailed by the Shadow."

"Wait one. Commander, maintain alert status until we find out what's going on." ordered Akinola.

"Understood, sir." replied Strauss.

Akinola nodded slowly and rubbed his face in thought. Finally he said, "On screen, Mr. Bane."

The image of the Shadow was replaced by the image of an Andorian female wearing captain's pips, seated in the center seat of her bridge. She spoke with a pleasant alto voice. "Captain Akinola? I am Captain Lhar'shon of the USS Shadow. Please accept my apologies for our sneaking up on you like this."

"Sneaking up? That's one way of putting it Captain. Did you follow us here or have you been waiting on us all the time?"

Lhar'shon ignored the question. "Captain, may I and one of my officers beam over? It is imperative that I speak with you - in private. It concerns your . . . passengers."

"Stand by a moment, captain." Akinola gave a hand signal for Bane to cut the channel. "What's the status of those ships?"

"Their weapons are off-line. Shields at normal settings for this region of space," replied Bane.

"Sir?" interrupted Strauss. "I was under the impression that cloaking devices on Federation vessels were against treaty stipulations."

"Well commander, it appears that whoever ordered the construction of those ships didn't read that part of the treaty," he said dryly. "Mr. Bane, re-open a channel to that ship."

Once again, the image of the Andorian captain appeared. "Captain Lhar'shon, you may beam over when ready. I'll meet you in our transporter room."

"Thank you, Captain Akinola. Shadow out."

Akinola tapped his commbadge. "Akinola to Chief Brin."

"Brin here, sir. Go ahead."

"Solly, we're about to receive a couple of guests in transporter room one. I'm headed there now. I want security teams on alert - but be discreet. They appear to be Starfleet officers, but I want your men ready, just in case."

"Understood, sir. I'll take care of it."

"Good. Akinola out." He rose from the chair. "Commander, let me know if either of those two ships makes any kind of move. As soon as we beam over those two, raise shields."

"Captain, if their intentions were hostile, we wouldn't stand a chance against those ships," she pointed out.

"Maybe not. Just humor an old man. You have the conn."

********************************

Captain Lhar'Shon and a red-headed, human commander stepped off the transporter platform. She looked at Akinola and asked, "Permission to come aboard?"

"Granted," replied Akinola, who extended a hand. "Welcome aboard the Bluefin ."

Lhar'shon took Akinola's hand in greeting. Her grip was firm and cool. She indicated her companion. "Allow me to introduce Commander Brendon Chalmer of Fleet Intelligence." Chalmer nodded his head but did not extend a hand.

"Commander," Akinola said. There was something about the intelligence officer that he did not like. "Well, Captain Lhar'shon, perhaps you can now explain why two gunboats have suddenly appeared out of nowhere in the Badlands." His smile did not reach his eyes, which remained hard.

"Is there someplace we can speak in private?" she asked.

"Follow me." They exited the transporter room, went up one level and entered the empty wardroom. Akinola gestured for the two officers to be seated at the table. He sat across from them.

"This is an interesting ship," remarked Lhar'shon. "I've never been on a cutter before. It's Alabcore class, correct?"

Akinola nodded. His dislike did not extend to the Andorian captain, at least not as much. "That's right. We're an upgrade to the Skipjack class. Bluefin is 70 years old and still handles the ion storms and the occasional run-in with an Orion Raider very handily." He paused, then added. "But you didn't come here to admire a vintage cutter. What's going on, captain?"

Chalmer spoke before Lhar'shon could reply. "Captain Akinola, you have done an excellent job in helping the Romulans get away from the Elix family. For that, we are grateful. Now, it's time for the professionals to take over. We'll be taking them off of your hands now." Lhar'shon gave Chalmer a withering side-long glance.

Akinola stared at Chalmer as a cat would gaze at a cornered rodent. "I'm sorry, commander, but I was speaking to Captain Lhar'shon. Exactly what is your business here?"

Chalmer's face reddened, but he maintained his poise. "Captain Akinola, I am the one who had Admiral Bateson issue you your orders. This is my operation. We needed a credible presence in this sector to be involved to keep the situation contained. As I said, you've carried out your orders admirably. But your part in this drama is now at an end."

"Drama? Do you think this is play-acting, Commander Chalmer, or whatever the hell your real name is."

"There is no need to be hostile . . ."

"Hostile?" Akinola actually smiled and shook his head. "Commander, you haven't seen me hostile - yet. Now, if you want to avoid any hostility , mister, you had better tell me why two Defiant class gunships with cloaking devices, no less, have taken up defensive positions on either side of my ship! My part will be over when I know what the hell is going on!"

Chalmer appeared unfazed by Akinola's outburst. Nonetheless, he took a more conciliatory approach. "My apologies, captain. I've been told that I lack tact. I will tell you what I can. First, our two ships are there not to threaten you but to protect you. Second,I'm sure, from your perspective, that this has been about recovering the Praetor's daughter. While we do want that to happen, if for no other reason than to keep the peace, it is the wormhole that is our primary concern."

Akinola crossed his arms. "Alright, commander. I can believe that. But from whom or what are you protecting us?"

"Why, the Romulans, of course. If they discover that their scout ship is disabled, they may come after it and their operatives."

"And how would they know this?" asked Akinola.

Chalmer gave Akinola a long, appraising look. "We have reason to believe that you may have a Romulan mole as part of your crew."

Akinola did not react. "Really? Any idea who it could be?" he asked, innocently.

"Unfortunately, no. Our source believes that one of their sleeper agents may have been activated as part of their operation. He only knew that he served on a cutter in this sector, but not which specific ship or his identity."

"Mr. Chalmer, there are eleven cutters of various types in this sector. Why think it was our ship?"

"Your ship routinely patrols the shipping lanes between Federation, Klingon and Orion space. You're strategic patrol zone would make you an ideal vessel for the Romulans to place an operative."

"Maybe. I don't pretend to understand all of this cloak and dagger stuff. But I do know I've got four Roms on board that need to get through that wormhole and go home."

"Plus one Orion," added Chalmer.

"No. He stays," said Akinola, firmly.

Chalmer frowned. "Why do you care? I know that he's caused you a lot of trouble in the past."

"You don't know much about the syndicate, do you, Mr. Chalmer? I have to deal with those pirates all of the time. We just roughed up several of their ships after the Roms made a raid on their home world and destroyed two of their ships, killing their crews in the process. To maintain the peace, as you put it, means I need to give them something to save face. Lortho Elix is that something."

Chalmer considered this. "Very well, captain. It's really all the same to me. The Praetor gets his daughter back but not the object of his wrath." He paused, then continued, "You realize, of course, that you've just signed the death warrants of the Romulan agents in your brig. The Praetor will demand satisfaction. If they don't deliver Elix, he'll take it out of their hides."

Akinola returned his stare. "I suppose they knew that when they signed up, right?"

Chalmer shrugged, but indicated agreement. "I'd like to speak to them, particularly their leader."

Akinola stood. "Follow me."

******************************

Voladek lay on the bunk in his cell, contemplating his future. While he took satisfaction in knowing that T'Lera was safe, he felt shame that he had allowed himself and his comrades to be taken alive. He had no illusions about what the future held. Most likely, he would be held and interrogated at length, then imprisoned or executed for espionage. If a prisoner exchange were arranged between the Romulan empire and the Federation, he still faced the wrath of the Praetor, despite the safe return of his daughter. He did not fear death, but his failure was a bitter tang that was almost palpable.

His thoughts were interrupted as two figures appeared at the door to his cell. The glow of the force field blinked out as an Andorian female and human male, both wearing Starfleet uniforms entered.

"Sub-commander? My name is Chalmer. I have a proposition for you."

****************************

On the bridge, Strauss distracted herself from the two gunships and a certain handsome Australian lieutenant by going over crew shift assignments. She had almost figured out a way to resolve a conflict between two damage control teams, when Bane's excited voice broke her concentration.

"Commander! I'm picking up interspatial flexure readings indicative of a wormhole forming."

Even as he spoke, Strauss could see a spiral of blue form and expand on the viewscreen. She watched in fascination as it continued to expand and open. It was beautiful and awesome, a rare sight for most. Seeing it here in the wildness of the Molari Badlands gave it an even more spectral and ominous appearance.

Bane's initial exuberance changed as he focused his sensors. "Commander, something's coming through!" his voice now serious.

Strauss caught her breath as an immense, green starship emerged from the whirling wormhole. She did not need sensors to tell her what she saw. The massive ship dwarfed the three Starfleet vessels as it glided majestically toward them.

She broke from her trance and slammed her hand down on the red-alert switch, hard enough to bruise her hand. The silent, flashing red lights were once again joined by the cacophony of the alert klaxon.

"Mr. Li, bring phasers on-line. Target torpedos on that ship!" As she issued the orders, the two Defiant class ships began to move, seeking flanking positions around the huge vessel.

The Valdore class warbird glided to a graceful stop in the midst of the three Federation vessels. Larger and more imposing than the D'deridex class, it was as if an eagle were surrounded by sparrows.

Strauss shook her head. "May you live in interesting times . . ." she muttered to herself.

 

[DavidFalkayn]

And now Captain Akinola and the crew of the Bluefin know what Jimmy Buffet meant when he sang, You got fins to the left, fins to the right, and you're the only bait in town.

Section 31--with its own cloaked Defiant class starships--that's spooky enough; add to that the fact they're staring down the face of a Valdore's disruptors and torpedoes...

Strauss raising shields in front of that Warbird is kind of like the mouse giving the eagle the finger before he becomes lunch: The last act of defiance.

It's a good thing that Akinola has two very valuable pieces of cargo in his possession.

 

[TheLoneRedshirt]

Strauss looked at Lt. Bane. "Status on the warbird?"

"Weapons still read as off-line. Their shields are up and they're holding position."

Strauss wondered whether she should try hailing the Romulan vessel when that quandry was solved for her.

"Incoming message from the warbird, commander. They're broadcasting in the clear."

"On screen, Mr. Bane."

The ominous sight of the Romulan battleship was replaced by the slightly less imposing view of a Romulan female wearing the rank insignia of commander. "Attention Federation vessels, this is Commander Donatra of the Valdore. Our intentions are not, repeat, not hostile. We are on a rescue mission and will withdraw when we have completed that mission. You are requested to remain on station to monitor us, but be warned, we will defend ourselves against any attack."

Strauss was so intent on the message that she jumped when she felt a hand on her shoulder. She turned to see Captain Akinola standing by the command chair. "Sir, did you hear . . .?" she began.

"I heard," he said. "Nigel, open a channel to the warbird." He took his seat as T'Ser stood by Bane's station. " Valdore, this is Captain Joseph Akinola of the USS Bluefin. Commander Donatra, that is a rather large vessel to send on a rescue mission, especially when you are in violation of the Neutral Zone by several thousand light years. I must insist that you return the way you came and allow us to handle any rescue operation for you."

The Romulan commander had a bemused expression on her face. "I must say, captain, that those are bold words, considering the relative sizes of our ships. Please do not interfere with our mission. You have my word that we will leave as soon as possible."

Akinola smiled. "Well, commander, I have to admit that you have my ship outgunned. However, you might find the two gunships flanking you have a much bigger bite. Why don't we stop posturing and you tell me what you want."

As Akinola spoke, he could see another Romulan officer whisper something to the commander. She nodded and turned back to Akinola. "Very well, captain. It seems that you have what I want. Prepare to beam over the Romulan citizens on your vessel. I expect them on my ship in ten of your minutes. Valdore out." The viewscreen once more showed the Romulan ship hanging in space.

Akinola tapped his commbadge. "Bridge to Chief Brin."

"Brin here."

"Solly, take a security detachment to the brig. Escort our Romulan guests to transporter room one."

"Sir?"

"You heard me, chief. Looks like the Praetor got impatient and has sent in some reinforcements. Oh, if our guests from the Shadow object, shoot them."

"On stun, sir?"

"Whatever it takes, chief. Akinola, out." He tapped his commbadge again, "Akinola to sickbay . . ."

*******************************

Captain Lhar'shon listened to the incoming communication with concern. "Acknowledged, lieutenant. For now, keep weapons safed. Under no circumstances are you to activate the cloaking device - understood?"

"Yes ma'am"

"If they do make a hostile move toward the Bluefin, release weapons and try to take out their disruptors and torpedo launchers. Get between the warbird and this cutter if you have to. Lhar'shon out." She moved back into the cell with Chalmer and Voladek. "It appears that we are out of time," said the captain.

Chalmer turned back to the Romulan. "No more time, sub-commander. I need your answer - now!"

Voladek looked at the intelligence officers. "No, Commander Chalmer. My life may be forfeit if I return, but I will not add to my shame by defecting."

Chalmer shook his head. "Too bad. You would have enjoyed life in the Federation."

Voladek smiled sadly. "Commander, I do not imagine there is a safe place in the galaxy for me to hide. I am ready to face my destiny at the hands of the Praetor."

"For what it's worth, I'm sorry, sub-commander."

*****************************

Akinola, Lhar'shon and Chalmer stood by as the Romulan Tal Shiar agents stood on the transporter platform. They carried a stretcher with the still unconscious T'Lera.

Akinola looked at Voladek. "Good luck to you."

Voladek lifted an eyebrow. "You do not strike me as a man who believes in luck, captain."

Akinola shrugged. "I take whatever I can get." He directed his attention to Chief Brin at the transporter controls. "Energize."

The Romulans faded into columns of energy, then were gone. Akinola turned to Lhar'shon and Chalmer. "Not to be rude, but I think it's time you were going too."

Captain Lhar'shon smiled. "I'm sorry we had to meet in such a fashion, Captain Akinola. Perhaps we will meet again."

"Next time, give me some warning."

Lhar'shon inclined her head as she and Chalmer climbed up on the platform. Akinola stepped forward. "Just a moment. Commander Chalmer, one question - now what? Do we just let the Romulans go their merry way as if nothing happened?"

Chalmer and Lhar'shon exchanged a look. "Believe me, captain. That's the best possible outcome."

"What about the wormhole?" he pressed.

"Leave that to us," Chalmer said, enigmatically.

Akinola thought to press the issue but didn't. He was tired and wanted nothing more to do with spies and intrigue. He turned to Chief Brin. "Solly, send them home." He turned and left before they faded completely.

*********************************

Voladek stepped off the transporter on the Valdore. A female commander stood waiting. Voladek stepped forward and saluted. "Commander, I am Sub-commander Voladek." He indicated the stretcher."And this is the Praetor's daughter. She is well but has been . . . abused by the Orions."

The commander gave orders and T'Lera was taken off to their medical section. She turned to Voladek. "Come with me." She led him down a corridor to an empty conference room. "What of the one's responsible for this?" she asked.

"The Orion, Lortho Elix, is on board the Bluefin. Their captain refuses to give him over."

Commander Donatra looked surprised. "Why is that?"

Voladek hesitated. "I beleive it is a matter of personal honor for him. He put his ship and crew at risk to help us escape the Orions."

Donatra pursed her lips in thought. "Very well then, we will not press the issue."

Voladek looked surprised. "Commander - my orders from the Praetor were explicit. I have failed in bringing back the kidnappers."

"Sub-commander, you have carried out your mission successfully. The Praetor's daughter is alive and safe. Your crew is intact. Speak no more of failure."

"But the Praetor . . ."

The commander's eyes flashed. " . . . Nearly brought us to war over the carelessness of his empty-headed daughter! Don't think that he has managed to keep this secret from everyone!" She regained her composure. "Voladek, there are several of us in the military that believe that the Praetor's leadership, or lack thereof, will lead us to ruin." She looked at him appraisingly. "You are much too valuable an asset to be discarded on the whim of the Praetor."

"Commader," Voladek said, cautiously, "What you say could be considered treasonous."

"Is it not treason to endanger our people and plunge us into war because he could not keep his own daughter under control?" she countered. "Do you know why she way abducted, sub-commander?"

"I was not told," Voladek admitted.

"She was gambling on some of the border planets - on the Federation side of the border. Apparently, she got caught up in some criminal activities that involved the Orion syndicate. The Praetor, of course, did not wish this to be known. For him, it was better to risk valuable intelligence and military assets on this fool's errand."

The revelation stunned and sickened Voladek. "I had no idea . . ."

"No. You didn't. You've been used badly, Voladek. But not in service to the empire. Only in service to a perverted emperor and his slut of a daughter." She paused, "I could use someone of your talents, sub-commander, to help restore the empire to its greatness. Would you consider this?"

Voladek was silent for a moment. "Commander, this is a lot to take in. But if what you say is true . . ."

"It is. And I can verify what I've said."

"Then, yes. I will consider it."

*********************************

"Captain? Message coming through from the Valdore."

"On screen, Mr. Bane."

Once more, the serious face of Commander Donatra filled the viewscreen. "Captain Akinola, I want to thank you for your help in this 'rescue' operation. Your forbearance is appreciated."

"Not that we had a great deal of choice in the matter, commander. Now, I must insist that you withdraw to your territory." said Akinola, evenly.

"That is our intention, captain. As soon as the wormhole opens, we will withdraw."

"Strange, isn't it?" continued Akinola, "how a wormhole has suddenly formed in this sector. I've patrolled this area of space for 25 years and never encountered one."

"The galaxy is full of strange things, Captain Akinola. Sometimes it's best to simply note the unusual and move on."

"Funny thing about me, commander. I sometimes have difficulty moving on when something bothers me. Have a safe trip home, commander."

"And you, captain. Farewell." The screen returned to the view of the Valdore."

*******************************

"Captain's Log - Stardate 54102.2 - The Valdore has returned through the wormhole, presumable to Romulan space, although I suppose that's debatable. We are en route back to Star Station Echo for some R&R and minor repairs. The Shadow and Spectre are remaining on station at the location of the Molari wormhole, whether to guard it, study it or destroy it, I neither know or care." He paused, then continued. "Commendations are in order for Commander Strauss and Lt. Bane. Both showed courage and coolness under very stressful circumstances. As to Dr. Baxter, he has agreed to take a leave of absence for 'personal reasons.' I see no need to elaborate further, save to say that I agree with his decision. I have already requested a temporary replacement and have learned that one should be ready to come on board in about one week. One last loose end - Lortho Elix is still in our brig and making a nuisance of himself. We'll turn him over to station security and let the diplomats work out turning him over to the Orions. Personally, I would not want to be him when he faces his father."

The door enunciator to the ready room chimed. Akinola stopped recording and said, "Enter!"

Lt. Commander T'Ser stepped in. "Excuse me, captain, but Gralt said long-range sensors are back up and running."

Akinola waved her in. "Now that we're almost to the station, huh? Oh well, better late than never." He looked more carefully at T'Ser. "Is something wrong, commander?"

T'Ser pursed her mouth. "I was wondering about Dr. Baxter. I understand that he's leaving the ship."

"Not permanently, at least I hope not. We both agreed that he needs some away time to get past this."

"What of his reputation?"

"T'Ser, outside of a handful on this ship and Admiral Bateson, no one knows what happened. I've decided to leave that out of my after-action report. Bateson is okay with that, considering the circumstances and Doc's years of service."

T'Ser lifted an eyebrow and smiled. "Filing a false report is a court-martial offense, captain."

"I'm too old to care and too stubborn to do otherwise, T'Ser."

"Yes sir," she said simply.

**************************************

EPILOGUE

The Bluefin was safely docked at Star Station Echo. Commander Strauss had worked out a rotation for crew leave and was about to head to the gym when her door chime buzzed. Expecting another crewman wanting to change his schedule, she sighed and said testily, "Enter!"

To her surprise, Lt. Nigel Bane entered her quarters. He was dressed in blue jeans, cowboy boots and a denim shirt. Strauss felt her pulse speed up slightly. "Mr. Bane, what can I do for you?"

"I was about to head to the station. I have a program I like to run on their holodeck - well, it's home actually. The Australian Outback I mean." He was obviusly nervous and not making a great deal of sense. Strauss gave him a puzzled smile. Bane continued, "Anyway, I like to ride horses and, well, I was wondering if you'd care to join me?"

Her smile widened, "Mr. Bane, are you inviting me on a date?"

"Call me Nigel, we're off duty. And, yes. Yes I am!"

"Okay, Nigel. But I have to warn you, I've never ridden a horse."

"Oh, no worries! I'll let you ride Diablo, he's a gentleman."

"Diablo?" she asked, uncertainly.

**********************************

"Joseph, when did this all get so complicated?" asked Morgan Bateson as he sipped a snifter of Saurian Brandy. "I miss the days of chasing Klingons and busting smugglers. Now you're out there chasing Romulans and butting heads with spooks."

Akinola smiled as he took a sip of his drink. They were seated at a private table at one of the nicer restaurants on the station. "Believe me, admiral. I'll be happy to get back on a nice, normal patrol. I'd rather leave this type of stuff to Picard or Shelby or some other hot shot captain."

"I suppose we must play the cards we're dealt, Joseph." The admiral was beginning to sound maudlin, a sure sign the brandy was taking effect. Akinola decided to change the subject.

"So when do I get a new CMO?" asked the captain.

"You've got another week in station, what's your hurry?" Bateson saw Akinola roll his eyes. "Okay, okay. You're getting Lt. Octavius Castille, MD. He's supposed to arrive on station in two days with the Magellan."

"Castille, huh? What can you tell me about him?"

Bateson puffed out his cheeks and gave a dismissive wave, "Oh, you know, the usual. Brilliant doctor, dedicated officer, etc., etc."

Akinola pressed, "What aren't you telling me, Morgan?"

"Hmmmm. Seems like I recall that he tends to tick off his senior officers. Got into a knock down drag-out with the CMO on Magellan. Right in the middle of surgery, too."

"You can't be serious!" said Akinola.

"Oh, I'm serious alright. As it turns out, he was right and the CMO was wrong. Castille probably saved the patient's life. Like I said, he's a brilliant doctor, just a bit shy on people skills."

"He and Gralt should get along famously," said Akinola morosely. "At least he should be better than having an EMH in sickbay."

"Ah yes, about that . . ." began Bateson.

***************************

T'Ser read the dispatch again. She held the PADD with numb fingers, her eyes brimming with tears. As if in slow motion, she moved to the captain's ready room, entering without pressing the enunciator.

Akinola looked up from his desk, annoyed. "T'Ser, what do you? . . ." Then he saw her face. "T'Ser," he said softly, "What is wrong?"

She looked at him and handed over the PADD. "This just came over the Newsnet - it's about Dr. Baxter."

Akinola took the PADD, a sense of dread coming over him.

Federation Newsnet - Earthdate 20 October 2379, 1400 GMT.
Tulsa, Oklahoma, North America.

Dr. Calvin Henry Baxter, of Tulsa, was found dead at his home today by neighbors after failing to show up for a golf outing. Baxter was the former director of Starfleet Medical in Atlanta and recently served as Chief Medical Officer aboard the Border Service Cutter, USS Bluefin. He served in Starfleet fifty years. Chief Constable Drayton Long issued a statement in which he stated that the cause of death was respiratory arrest due to an overdose of pain medication. Apparently Dr. Baxter deactivated the bio-sensors in his home which prevented medical assistance from arriving in time to revive him. . .

Akinola dropped the PADD on the desk, not reading the parts about next of kin, honors and awards, and the shock expressed by his neighbors. He stood up slowly, walked around his desk and hugged T'Ser tightly, feeling her body shake as she sobbed deeply. Akinola closed his eyes and surrendered to his own pain and grief.

 

[DavidFalkayn]

That was one hell of a gut punch for an ending--didn't see that coming at all.

A very well written and well done story. As I mentioned earlier, you do a very good job with indirect characterization. I've come away from this story with a much better understanding of Akinola, Baxter, T'Ser, Strauss, Bane, Bateson, and the Bluefin herself who is also very much a character.

So much grief caused by a spoiled brat of a princess who decided to go off slumming--I don't blame Donatra for being pissed.

Again, very nicely done!

 

[TheLoneRedshirt]

Thanks, David. And to add a bit more background, Donatra was the character in "Nemesis" who assisted Shinzon in the coup against the Praetor and Senate. She eventually saw Shinzon for the monster he was and came to the aid of Picard and the Enterprise. (Oops! Hope everyone has seen "Nemesis" by now! ) "Storms and Shadows" takes place before the events in "Nemesis."

 

[CeJay]

What a sad note to end this story on. Suicide is an issue seldom dealt with in Trek but here it did make a certain amount of sense. Baxter had been used and violated in the worst kind of manner and the repercussions are something he would have to live with for the rest of his life.

The appearance of Shadow and Specter were a great feat, adding additional tension to an already difficult situation. In the end their involvement did not really change much of anything but it was an apt introduction of characters we (hopefully!) might see again. The subtle tension between the intelligence officer and Shadow’s captain just begged for their return.

Also I’m glad that Stauss and Bane finally hooked up. About time.

I’m looking forward to the new medical officer coming aboard. From what we’ve been told so far he’s sure to stir things up, especially considering the way his predecessor left. But then again the crew welcomed Strauss with open arms as well.

Very excited for the next Bluefin adventure!