The_Veil_of_the_Sky_Compile_9 =============== Mission: Veil of the Sky Day: 1 Stardate: 2414.4.22 =============== (USS Rosenante - Jackson's Quarters - ACEO Lt Eian O'Neill - Day 1 - 1846) --------------- (USS Rosenante - Jackson's Quarters - ACEO Lt Eian O'Neill - Day 1 - 1846) While he was holding Hope, Tom said in response to his wish to be a dad, "I hope I am here when that day arrives. I know you will be a great dad". "Thanks, Tom," Eian said with a heartfelt smile. "I know you'll be a great dad to these two, also. They're lucky to have you and Dahlia." (reply Jacksons) "Well, I should get going. I have a lot of work to do," he handed Hope back to her parents. "Thanks for letting me hold them--they're wonderful. They're actually kind of stress relieving! Though you may not agree with me..." (reply Jacksons) "I'll see you both later. Thanks again." With that, Eian left. (reply none) (posted by Morgan G) =============== Mission: Veil of the Sky Day: 2 Stardate: 2414.04.23 =============== (USS Rosenante - Ready Room – QM/ Strat Ops – LT Chance Raschen - Day 2 - 2206) (Beta Aquillia IV - Atlantis Station - FO- Lt. Cmdr Ben Soma - Day 2 – 2341) (Beta Aquillia IV - Atlantis Station - FO- Lt. Cmdr Ben Soma - Day 2 - 2343) --------------- (USS Rosenante - Ready Room – QM/ Strat Ops – LT Chance Raschen - Day 2 - 2206) The ex-Privateer and the ex-Starfleet Ranger sat across from the skipper as he spoke; "Thank you gentlemen for being so punctual," the captain began, "As you know this is a difficult and very time sensitive mission. We’re lacking for solid intelligence of the events taking place on the ground. So in lieu of that, we're going to have to adapt our mission and conduct our own intelligence gathering operation." "I would like for you two to make your way to the surface and take steps to collect critical intelligence to help us with our mission. I will need to you locate and put into a place a means to track the leadership of the Veil of the Sky. I need Intel on operations, strongpoints and contacts. I need organizational data, and I need an assessment of the Veil's true capabilities." "It would be helpful if you could also make progress into discovering who their backer is, capture some weaponry for analysis, and see what else you may be able to discern. In addition our primary mission is to locate Ambassador Turner." "So to be succinct your mission is to gather intelligence, including the location of key Veil operators, uncover what you can of their supporters, operations, deployment and capabilities, and to locate the holding location of Ambassador Turner and her staff. You are not under any circumstances to interfere with any leadership of the Veil, nor are you to conduct any rescue operations unless it is clear that loss of life is imminent. Do I make myself clear on this matter?" "I understand Captain." Mike replied, "I don't like the last part of your orders, but I understand them and will respect them." “Yes sir; I understand and will do my best to adhere to your orders.” He answered. (Reply Salid, Rosenbauer iyw) “If I may sir, I suggest Mike and I not have any insignia or documentation that identifies us as Starfleet personnel. Also, before we go we need a couple of hours to double check some dated information.” (Reply Salid and/or Rosenbauer) “Years ago I came here with my grandfather and we stayed in the capital city. About 6 blocks from the government central was an establishment that political aides, military officers and various other types would gather to talk and whatnot. I want to see if it is still there because it may be a good place to start sir. It would also make a good spot to establish our cover, whatever that may turn out to be when we get there.” (Reply Salid and/or Rosenbauer) (Reply Salid and/or Rosenbauer) (Posted by Charlie) --------------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Atlantis Station - FO- Lt. Cmdr Ben Soma - Day 2 – 2341) Things were progressing admirably, so far everyone had done their best to complete the tasks set before them. They had begun processing the refuges and Ben was glad to see there were no critically wounded among them. Sure there were a few bumps and bruises, cuts and scrapes as well as a couple broken bones but no one was on deaths door. With the addition of the security forces from the Rose Ben could sense that the inhabitants of Atlantis station were becoming a little more relaxed if only by a fraction. Patrols were seen in greater frequency adding to that sense of reduced tension. Ben was making his rounds checking everything out as he went, taking note of future needs and current demand on their supplies. For now they could handle things but soon they would be dealing with more and more displaced inhabitants and demand would increase as a result. Ben moved on through the checkpoints and watched everyone trying to gauge their reactions and current state of mind. His combadge chimed an incoming message. =/\=Atlantis Station. This is Lt Alaya. I want to speak to the person in charge of those interefering Starfleet officers that we know are there.=/\= Came a female voice. Ben tapped his combadge to reply. "Lieutenant Alaya, this is Lieutenant Commander Ben Soma." =/\=Our glorious leader, Habrii, wishes to speak with you.=/\= Came the reply. "I'd be more than happy to speak with your leader Lieutenant." Ben said. "We can begin negotiating a cease fire agreement and talks on future relations between our peoples." What sounded like a laugh emitted from the combadge before Alaya replied. =/\=Oh no. He wishes to speak to you to discuss the immediate withdrawal of all federation staff.=/\= "I'm sorry to hear that Lieutenant." Ben replied. "It was our hope that we could continue our trade relations with the Aquillian's. However if your leader doesn't want that I'm sure we can reach some compromise that would benefit both our peoples." (reply Alaya) (posted by Milo Young) --------------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Atlantis Station - FO- Lt. Cmdr Ben Soma - Day 2 - 2343) "Mr. Davis, Mr. Matrix start breaking out the shelters." Ben said. "Find the most stable location to set them up, have Xim help you." "Ben…we lost one during the decent. I don't think its salvageable, but we might be able to use it for materials. We'll set up the rest of them in there and there." replied Matrix as he pointed out where he was thinking. "See what you can salvage from whats left, we'll request a replacement as soon as possible." Ben replied. Steve went about issuing a few orders and checking a few things out before turning back to Ben. "Ben, all but the first shelter has been set up. We managed to destroy one on the decent…I've asked my crew if they can make repairs…one side of the roof was ripped open. So far everything else is looking good. Supplies are being staged." said Matrix as he looked around and noticed how dark it was out. "The shelter's a write off Steve, guess we should be thankful we managed to land without losing more." Ben replied. "I'll request a replacement shelter when I contact the Rose, lets hope this is our only set back." "I'm getting that gut feeling again…I don't like this…I feel like we're sitting ducks here." said Matrix. Ben knew what Steve meant, they were easy targets sitting in this glass ball. "The Station's security forces have been able to keep things monitored and under wraps up till now, they'll give us a heads up if anything happens." Ben said. "Last I heard the sentries were razor thin." replied Matrix. "True." Ben stated. "They are over extended but we should be able to augment their forces with our own security personnel." "Can we send down more security?" asked Matrix. "That's a good idea and one I'm certain Sanok would endorse." Ben replied. "I'll request extra security when I contact the Rose with an update on our status and current needs." (reply Matrix iyw) (posted by Milo Young) =============== Mission: Veil of the Sky Day: 3 Stardate: 2414.04.24 =============== (Beta Aquillia IV - Atlantis Station - JAG Lt. Nayeli - 0000) (USS Rosenante – Captain’s Yacht – QM/ Strat Ops – LT Chance Raschen - 0025) (USS Rosenante – Captain’s Yacht – CO Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid - 0027) (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Counselor Parker Davis - Day 3 - 0400) (USS Rosenante - Ready Room- CO, Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid- Day 3- 0903) (Skysplitter- Transporter Room- Ambassador Dralar-Day 3- 0918) (USS Rosenante- Transporter Room 1- Ambassador Dralar-Day 3- 0921) (USS Rosenante- Transporter Room 1- CSO Lt. tlha'nISta' - Day 3- 0923) (USS Rosenante- Transporter Room 1- Ambassador Dralar-Day 3- 0924) (USS Rosenante- Observation Lounge- Ambassador Dralar-Day 3- 0930) (USS Rosenante- Transporter Room 1- Ambassador Dralar-Day 3- 0934) (USS Rosenante- Observation Lounge- Ambassador Dralar-Day 3- 0936) (USS Rosenante- Observation Lounge- CSO, LT tlha'nISta', Day 3- 0938) (USS Rosenante- Observation Lounge- Ambassador Dralar-Day 3- 0943) (USS Rosenante- Observation Lounge- CSO/Lt. tlha’nISta’, Day 3- 0949) (Kravis, Bridge, Gul Matan, Day 3, 1005) (Beta Aquillia IV - Atlantis Station – Sec/Tac Ensign Blake Turner- Day 3 - 1018) (Beta Aquillia IV - Atlantis Station - President in Exile- Kaloth- Day 3 - 1020) (Beta Aquillia IV- Government Offices- Ambassador Tzorn- Day 3, 1600) (Beta Aquillia IV- Federation Embassy- Ambassador Tzorn- Day 3, 1625) (Beta Aquillia IV- Atlantis Station- FO- Lt. Cmdr Ben Soma- Day 3, 1627) (Beta Aquillia IV- Federation Embassy- Ambassador Tzorn- Day 3, 1628) --------------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Atlantis Station - JAG Lt. Nayeli - 0000) "You take that side and I'll take this side. A few things you should remember. Direct the walking wounded down here at present. We can move them on later when the camps are set up. I don't think we will find any seriously wounded people in this hotel otherwise Miss McNulty would have already informed us, but if you do find someone, don't linger. Tag them, call their position in and then move on. You're not going to be able to help that person by staying but you could help someone else by moving on." "Head wounds are tricky and if you aren't sure it's better to err on the side of caution rather than ignore it. I'd rather see my teams go pick someone up who doesn't need it than miss something so if you are unsure about any injury call it in and leave it to the rescue teams." Nayeli payed close attention, one thing she had been hand-picked for as a JAG and occasional SFI operative was her ability to remember details. She was particularly good at visual information, but other modes weren't far behind. The Doctor continued as Nayeli gave a short nod, bnot wanting to interupt. Josh turned to go down her own corridor and stopped. "Oh Lieutenant..." Tossing her what looked like an old fashioned key card, she smiled. "I had hotel security replicate this. It's a master key card for all the rooms. Saves us keeping the info on our padd and trying to deal with any jamming the Veil might set up. Whatever the heck you do, don't lose that card or you and I will be in very serious trouble. OK. " Nayeli smiled slightly, "Of course, I would never want to get a fellow officer in trouble." "One final thing Lieutenant. We are not yet authorised to leave the hotel grounds so make sure that you stay within the security perimeter regardless of who you are treating. I'd really prefer not having to explain you sudden demise to Stafleet HQ. Are we clear on this?" Nayeli nodded, "As crystal Doctor." She headed down the hallway and stopped at the first door. She expertly flicked the keycard in the lock and went through, tags clattering at her belt. (reply any, none) (posted by Lori) --------------- (USS Rosenante – Captain’s Yacht – QM/ Strat Ops – LT Chance Raschen - 0025) Chance stood in the cockpit of the yacht trying to help a couple of engineers get some issues resolved. He had a brown suit jacket draped over the back of the pilot’s seat while he wore the matching pants and a light blue shirt. He had on his suspenders was a double sheath for his twin Bowie-Knives and his twin shoulder holster for his personal disruptor pistols which are replicas of 1857 Colt Navies. He turned around when he heard a voice behind him to see Mike and the skipper enter the cockpit stepping over/ through the clutter of tools. “Sorry about that sir; I got busy down here. It’s hard to believe that the records show this thing as FMC (nrpg: Fully Mission Capable) and it won’t even stay started.” (Reply Salid and/or Rosenbauer) “No we can use this. Besides, PO2 Johnny Chen already counterfeited a registry and set it up in the yacht’s system. Well sir, I can “walk and talk” if you don’t mind sitting and listening.” Raschen said to Salid as he indicated to the chair at the navigational computer while opening an access panel at the helm. (Reply Salid) “First off, Chen managed to hack the central computer on one of the Veil’s non-confiscated ships. Apparently it is a converted cargo hauler with retractable weapons. We also learned by way of a visual log that no more than three of the confiscated ships were blasted because they tried to break orbit and run from the same ‘anchorage’.” Raschen detailed as he worked on some of the components that were under the console. (Reply Salid and/or Rosenbauer) “Could you pass me that small box of relays please?” Chance started as he sat up out from under the console. “Thank you. We also found out that that bar is still there offering the same services to the same type of clientele. Dress code changed though; civilian suits required, ties optional. Patrons from about 6 weeks before the coup to the present has been made up of a cornucopia of sentient beings including Humans, Klingons, Romulans, Cardassians, Orions, Andorians, and Gorn just to name a few.” He explained as he began swapping out components. (Reply Salid) Just then Chance kicked the helm console hard enough to leave a mark from his boot, and the console came to life. “And lastly, we learned that the coup started to be ‘peaceful’ but when Loyalist units resisted it became violent and the freighters were the first casualties.” He finished as he ran a diagnostics program on the yacht. (Reply Salid and/or Rosenbauer) “There we go, the ‘Grey Wolf’ is ready for departure when we get clearance. Ah, no sir; that was all we were able to get without risking detection.” Chance replied as he crossed his arms and leaned against the console. (Reply Salid and/or Rosenbauer) “For my part, I am going to see if anyone recognizes me. That is why I had Chen slip into the memory banks that I had left Starfleet a few months ago under less than honorable conditions.” (Reply Salid and/or Rosenbauer) (Reply Salid and/or Rosenbauer) (Posted by Charlie) --------------- (USS Rosenante – Captain’s Yacht – CO Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid - 0027) “Sorry about that sir; I got busy down here. It’s hard to believe that the records show this thing as FMC and it won’t even stay started.” "Yes, I suppose it's one of those things that has never been properly checked out. It's hasn't been used since the ship was commissioned. Do you want to use one of the runabouts, instead?" “No we can use this. Besides, PO2 Johnny Chen already counterfeited a registry and set it up in the yacht’s system. Well sir, I can “walk and talk” if you don’t mind sitting and listening.” "Not at all." Ahmed settled. "I'm curious how Chen managed to counterfeit a code for the ship." “First off, Chen managed to hack the central computer on one of the Veil’s non-confiscated ships. Apparently it is a converted cargo hauler with retractable weapons. We also learned by way of a visual log that no more than three of the confiscated ships were blasted because they tried to break orbit and run from the same ‘anchorage’.” "Go ahead." Ahmed replied, considering this new piece of information. “Could you pass me that small box of relays please?” Chance started as he sat up out from under the console and Ahmed handed Raschen the relays he had requested. “Thank you. We also found out that that bar is still there offering the same services to the same type of clientele. Dress code changed though; civilian suits required, ties optional. Patrons from about 6 weeks before the coup to the present has been made up of a cornucopia of sentient beings including Humans, Klingons, Romulans, Cardassians, Orions, Andorians, and Gorn just to name a few.” He explained as he began swapping out components. "Gorn, eh? I'm surprised that the bar is still operating considering the Veil's stand against non-Aquillians." Ahmed replied. Just then Chance kicked the helm console hard enough to leave a mark from his boot, and the console came to life. “And lastly, we learned that the coup started to be ‘peaceful’ but when Loyalist units resisted it became violent and the freighters were the first casualties.” He finished as he ran a diagnostics program on the yacht. "So it was never really the intentions of the veil to hold a bloody coup in the first place… That's a valuable piece of information. I'll have to pass that down to Commander Soma, it might give us some leverage in the negotiations. Anything on the possible location of Ambassador Turner or the other Federation citizens?" “There we go, the ‘Grey Wolf’ is ready for departure when we get clearance." Chance declared as the diagnostic he was running came back clear. "Ah, no sir; that was all we were able to get without risking detection.” Chance replied as he crossed his arms and leaned against the console. "Understandable. What is the plan?" Ahmed asked with a nod. “For my part, I am going to see if anyone recognizes me. That is why I had Chen slip into the memory banks that I had left Starfleet a few months ago under less than honorable conditions.” Chance explained. "And I'm going in as a hired gun, working for him." Mike added as he entered the compartment. "I got the emergency transporter operating now, so that's ready to use if we need it." He informed Chance. Ahmed looked at the two men and smiled. "Okay I know you two are anxious to get underway, so I'll get out of your hair. But keep in mind this is a re-conn mission, if things get two dangerous abort and return to the ship. Keep your eyes open and good hunting." Mike smiled, "Don't worry captain, we'll be fine. It's the Aquillians you should worry about." (reply Raschen) "Be that as it may, exercise caution. Once I'm clear of the Yacht, you've clearance to depart." (reply Raschen) Daniel Greene --------------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Counselor Parker Davis - Day 3 - 0400) After the security checkpoints had been established, they had started to take in residents and patients for triage. They had a sanitary barricade up to give those in triage some privacy and to prevent germs from traveling. There was a large entertainment and sleeping area and some smaller food storage and equipment storage areas in the camp. Parker was delegating several crewmembers to setting up the snack area and holographic entertainment center, and was now walking around and inspecting everything to be sure there were no safety issues or people in need of help. He approached Jackson and said, "We've got everything almost up and running, Sir. I have a few suggestions. The cots in the sleeping area come with a blanket and pillow but the weather isn't bad and we have good climate controls--in case we lose power and replicator ability, I suggest we retain the blankets and only hand them out to those who request them. The triage area may need them in an emergency and they'll have to be sanitary, so retaining them would give us that capability. Also, I'd like to get more security personnel in the entertainment area. I know it's early but we've got a heavy influx of refugees and a few may have slipped through the cracks when we first opened." (reply Jackson) (posted by Morgan G) --------------- (USS Rosenante - Ready Room- CO, Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid- Day 3- 0903) “Mister Fraiser, I will need you to accompany the assault team. I need a qualified Doctor on the team. We need to do every thing to limit body count." Tayla nodded and replied, “Yes Sir.” Although her heart was pounding at being in the same room with Lily, she kept her expression cool and calm. "Any questions?" “Yes, Sir. If i may ask, with the team that are going... Are there any specific medical requirements for the Skorr that i need to be aware of?” (reply Salid, Any) (Posted by Jackie Smith) --------------- (Skysplitter- Transporter Room- Ambassador Dralar-Day 3- 0918) Dralar stepped through the large iris-shaped door that separated the transporter room from the corridor beyond. He was dressed in the accrouments of his office, a royal white tunic with Gold trim, bearing a solid blue enameled and gold symbol of the Skorr Hierachy. Around his neck, he wore the brocade of his lineage, a gold sysmbol of his absolute authority as a member of the Royal house of Skoria. His small badge of office, specifically that of Ambassador was affixed to the larger brocade, indicating his current function. Behind him, Sendam, his body servant and loyal companion walked, carrying a series of Skorr data PADDs. He was dressed in a rich crimson tunic that denoted his elevated status and marked him as a servant of the royal household. Already waiting for him in the transporter room was Jovek, the High Flight Commander and supreme commander of the Skorr fleet. He was flanked by a pair of Skorr warriors from the exalted Splitbeak division. All three were wearing their military uniforms, black tunics trimmed in crimson and silver. Their beam staves were highly shined and glowed with a light pulsing red energy that signified that they were armed and ready for use. In addition to their uniforms they wore their war gloves, mechanical gauntlets designed to enhance the natural strength of the Skorr warriors grip and provide a personal defensive shield to protect them from incoming energy and projectile weapons. The bladed talon gauntlets were highly polished and worn upon the soldier talons. They were ready to fight and it was apparent to all who saw them that they were prepared to do so against any foe. "I see you are prepared Jovek" Dralar stated as he regarded the escort that had been provided for him. Jovek fixed his single eye upon the prince, and Dralar could see his reflection in the polished silver plate that marked the missing eye. "I have indeed, prepared. I do not wish to trust your safety to the federation. I would rather that we did not meet with them, but as I know you wish it, I will at least make the best of it." Dralar clucked for a moment as he bobbed his head, "Well don't be so glum yet, old friend. I anticipate that Captain Salid will request military aid, which means we will soon have troops on patrol where the chance for combat is higher." "I still do not understand why we must aid them, when we have our own mission to accomplish, my Prince. Why do we not just send troops down to the planet and find your brother ourselves." Jovek replied. "Because, old friend, if we do that, the Veil will kill him and we will have accomplished nothing." "We will have conquered this world." Jovek replied. "Yes, but then we must occupy it and assimilate it into the Hierarchy, which will take generations. There can be as much glory to be had by out-thinking an opponent as there is in besting them in combat." Jovek scoffed. "Do not be concerned, before we leave here it is likely we will see conflict and then the Aquillians can learn to fear our warriors and our fleet. You will have your military glory, and the honor of the Hierarchy will remain intact. But for now, be patient, and allow me to perform my duty. When diplomacy fails, you will have your day and the sky will run red with the blood of our enemies. These people are foolish and will not realize their mistake until it is too late." "The sky will bleed" Jovek replied in a strong voice. "The sky shall bleed." the two escorts repeated. "My Prince, the Federation ship has indicated that they are ready to receive you." the transporter technician reported. Dralar stepped up onto the transporter platform beside Jovek. "Very well energize." --------------- (USS Rosenante- Transporter Room 1- Ambassador Dralar-Day 3- 0921) Dralar materialized on the familiar transporter platform of the Rosenante and immediately noted Ensign Dawson operating the controls. There were other officers in the compartment that he did not know, and so Dralar fell back on an old federation Tradition. "I am Dralar, 45th Prince of Skoria." he began and then gestured to jovek, "This is High Flight Commander Jovek and our escort. We request permission to come aboard." (reply Signos, Lanista) Daniel Greene --------------- (USS Rosenante- Transporter Room 1- CSO Lt. tlha'nISta' - Day 3- 0923) Dralar and his entourage were reconstituted materially by the transporter – one that made noise… Lani’ preferred the variety of Klingon matter/energy conversion beaming that was silent. She wondered if the Skorr had similar covert transporter technology. The head birdman said, "I am Dralar, 45th Prince of Skoria. This is High Flight Commander Jovek and our escort. We request permission to come aboard." “joH tlha’nISta’ jIH, QolloH puqbe’, DI’al qul tuq! QulpIn ej 'ay'la'!” Lani’ said in blustery ‘Klingonese’. “I am Lady Lanista, daughter of QolloH, of the House of DI’al. I serve aboard this vessel as Lieutenant and Science Officer. This is Signos. Your presence aboard is acknowledged and accepted. We are to escort you and your staff to the Observation Lounge. (reply Signos, Dralar, Jovek (iyw), Dawson (iyw)) (Posted by Frank) --------------- (USS Rosenante- Transporter Room 1- Ambassador Dralar-Day 3- 0924) Much to Dralar's surprise there were two officers in the transporter room, with whom he was unfamiliar. It seemed that the roster of the Rosenante had changed somewhat since he was last aboard her. One of the officers, obviously a Klingon-Vulcanoid hybrid spoke a reply in klingon before adding to it in Federation standard. Fortunately Dralar's universal translator was operating properly. "joH tlha’nISta’ jIH, QolloH puqbe’, DI’al qul tuq! QulpIn ej 'ay's'! I am Lady Lanista, daughter of QolloH, of the House of DI’al. I serve aboard this vessel as Lieutenant and Science Officer. This is Signos. Your presence aboard is acknowledged and accepted. We are to escort you and your staff to the Observation Lounge." "Well met, Lieutenant tlha'nIsta and Signos. We are ready to be escorted to Captain Salid and Commander Sullivan." He replied, and then he and his staff stepped down from the transporter platform. "Welcome back aboard the Rosenante, Mister Ambassador," Ensign Dawson greeted him. "It is good to be back, Mister Dawson. How goes your courting of Ensign Molina?" Dralar replied as Jovek gave a click of disgust. "Very well, sir thank you. We're thinking about getting married soon." Dawson replied. "Very good. I will pray that you have a large and healthy clutch of hatchlings." Dralar responded. "Thank you sir. I wish you well." "And you, ensign." The entourage left the transporter room and headed for the observation lounge, the metal talon sheaths clicking aggressively on the deck. --------------- (USS Rosenante- Observation Lounge- Ambassador Dralar-Day 3- 0930) The doors to the observation lounge slid open with a barely audible whisper and Dralar entered directly behind Lanista and Signos. The room was surprisingly empty, as only two officers were waiting for their arrival, Captain Salid and another Officer that Dralar did not recognize. Salid rose to his feet and stepped forward. He extended his right hand in the standard human gesture of greeting and Dralar took it and shook it as was customary. "Welcome aboard mister Ambassador." The captain took a step back, "and you as well High Flight Commander Jovek. I appreciate your willingness to meet with me amidst this crisis." "It was not up to me, captain Salid. The Ambassador insisted. I have a military campaign to plan and command. I have little time to speak politics and policy with the Federation." Jovek replied. dralar gave him a side-long glance. The Skorr ambassador spoke next. "High Flight Commander jovek is dedicated to his preparations. He is here to see to it that my Father's wishes are carried out should diplomacy fails." "When diplomacy fails." Jovek corrected. "Yes, well…" Dralar recovered. "That has yet to be seen. We have not yet established contact with the leader of the Veil to begin our negotiations. So as we are here to perform similar tasks, I thought perhaps that you would care to discuss your mission and your plans with me." Ahmed nodded, and directed the two Skorr Emissaries to specially designed seats, made to accommodate their digitigrade legs. The two Skorr guards took up positions flanking the door. "I assume you've already been introduced to Ensign Signos and Lieutenant Lanista?" Ahmed asked. "Yes." Dralar replied. "The allow me to introduce you to Lieutenant Fraiser, She's with our medical department." (reply Fraiser) "It is pleasant to meet with you Lieutenant." Dralar replied. (reply Fraiser) The Ambassador looked back at the captain trying to determine what was happening here, exactly. Failing to decipher it, however he moved to ask directly. "I will admit to being somewhat confused Captain. I was expecting to meet with yourself, Commander Sullivan and Lieutenant Raschen to discus your mission. Yet you have here, a Scientist, a junior security officer and a doctor. These are not the people I expected, although I have no concerns for the tactical skills that Lanista possesses. Please explain why I am not meeting with your head of security and your first officer." "There have been many changes to the Rosenante since you were given a leave of duty, mister Ambassador. Commander sullivan is no longer with the fleet, she is now serving with the Starfleet marines on special assignment. Commander Soma is now my first officer. Lieutenant Raschen is no longer my Chief of Security, that position now falls to Lieutenant Sanok. Both of those officers along with almost all my senior crew are presently on the surface of the planet, setting up refugee camps and trying to make arrangements to open negotiations with Habrii, the leader of the Veil of the Sky. The Officers assembled in this room are the remaining senior officers, assigned here because this is where they are needed most. They ability and dedication, nor their courage is in question." "Why are you bothering to establish a refugee camp in the first place captain?" Jovek asked, "to do so with your limited resources is futile. Once the conflict starts in earnest you will be wasting precious resources on your enemies, rather than using them to gain victory. You're decision is a foolish one." Salid's eyes narrowed. "Commander, perhaps you are unclear on the differences between the United Federation of Planets and that of the Skorr Hierarchy. We are not here to conduct military operations unless there is no other option. We are here to provide humanitarian aid, security, and medical services to those people displaced by the fighting and to those citizens of the Federation and their allies hat were caught in this conflict. We are not here to subjugate the population of this world, nor are we here to restore the deposed government." "Then you should not be here, captain. If all you wish to do is talk, then you should go home and debate your policy with your federation council and leave the fighting to the warriors and soldiers." Jovek retorted. "I am surprised that the Klingon will stand for it." He glanced at Lanista. "Enough Jovek. We are not here to argue policy." Dralar replied. "We are here to coordinate our efforts with those of our allies to achieve our goals." "If you want to coordinate, let the Federation crew return to their ship and allow me to unleash our forces. The federation can lend their support by acting as a police force in our occupied zones. They are better acquainted to policing actions rather than combat anyway." Jovek added, his anger becoming apparent. Dralar regarded the senior officer and his voice lowered. "High Fleet Commander, you and the escorts will return to the Skyripper and await my orders. Continue with your preparations, but do not commit any military resources other than those I have already authorized." "We are wasting time here. We should be landing troops." Jovek protested. "You have your orders Jovek. Carry them out." The senior officer rose from his seat, his body trembling with anger and his feathers slightly fluffed in a display of aggression. "Yes my Prince." Ahmed tapped his commbadge. "Salid to security. I need a two-man detail to escort three Skorr dignitaries to the transporter room they will be returning to their ship." =^= Security team is standing by in the corridor captain.=^= the reply came. "Very good Salid out." The doors slid open to permit Jovek and his two guards to exit, they were immediately flanked by a pair of starfleet security personnel. The doors slid closed a moment later. "You must excuse the Commander," Dralar spoke, "He is a renowned warrior among our people and he does not see any need for diplomacy. I agree with him to a degree, but it is my function here to at least attempt a peaceful resolution to this problem before we resort to military action." "I understand Ambassador, I can respect the fact that the Commander speaks his mind. With him it is clear where you stand. I can admire that." "Still, he offered offense. his outburst has brought me dishonor." "On the contrary, the fact that he respects you enough to speak his mind enhances your honor as a leader. He will perform his duty, and he does so with concern and dedication to your father and your family. He is an honorable man and his deference to you brings you a similar honor." Salid replied. "Shall we discuss the situation now?" "Yes, I feel that is best. Where would you like to begin?" "With your orders perhaps?" Salid suggested. "Our orders are to negotiate the release of the federation ambassador and her staff, to provide security and services to displaced Federation citizens, our allies and anyone else in need, and if possible to uncover who is providing arms and support to the Veil of the Sky." Dralar nodded his head. "My orders are to negotiate the return of our ambassador, and barring that to instigate a full scale invasion of this planet, for the purpose of occupation and eventual assimilation into the Hierarchy as a subservient world." "I see," Salid replied. "you know that military action against the population of this world would put us at odds?" "yes." Dralar replied. "Which is why I am determined to fulfill my diplomatic mission, rather than bring about a war between the Federation and the Skorr Hierarchy." "Since neither of us wants that, I think it would be best if we worked together." Salid replied. Dralar cocked his head. "There will come a time where I will no longer be able to justify patience for the military. Until then I will agree to work with you." "Agreed," Ahmed replied, "Will you allow us to take the lead on the negotiations? We will include you in everything, even agree to have you present. I think it best that we show solidarity, even if we do not completely agree with each other. If the Skorr were to negotiate a separate agreement with the veil, it could weaken our position and the same if we were to negotiate a separate agreement. Together we have more bargaining power than we do apart." "There is some logic to this arrangement." I will agree for now. "Good. In order to best determine our combined course of action, we have some questions we'd like to ask you." "Very well, you may ask." Dralar replied. Ahmed looked at the three junior officers, giving them the cue to ask any questions that they may have. (reply Lanista, Signos, Fraiser) Daniel Greene --------------- (USS Rosenante- Transporter Room 1- Ambassador Dralar-Day 3- 0934) Driving disappointment at the ambassador’s mention of ‘hatchlings’ in the Transporter Room, Lani’ focused on the meeting. Any supposition of a positive yield of experimentation in further hybridization had been quelled by the oblique allusion to the Skorr having an incompatible reproductive biology. Whether Dralar would make a suitable mate or not, Lani’ was still impressed with him as an Ambassador. However, tlha’nISta’ was not at all impressed with Jovek. "Good,” said the Captain. “In order to best determine our combined course of action, we have some questions we'd like to ask you." "Very well, you may ask." Dralar replied, and Salid then opened the floor… Referring to notes taken during the preamble, Lanista began her comments with remarks about Jovek. “This so-called High Flight Commander of yours, jo' veH - whose name in my tongue means the 'limits of the machine,'” she said. “He seems to be convinced of the outcome here without first letting diplomatic action actually be implemented. You said he is renowned among your people. What is the basis of that renown? Soothsaying? ‘When diplomacy fails’, he said. Evidently his is not aware that Diplomacy is the Art of letting someone Else have Your way. I would like to know first what his role in this endeavor is, and whether or not you have considered assigning him to some duty where he will be in no position to compromise successful completion of our now Joint mission.” (Reply Salid, Dralar, any) “Jovek said also, ‘…you should not be here…. If all you wish to do is talk, then you should go home and debate your policy with your Federation Council and leave the fighting to the warriors and soldiers. I am surprised that the Klingon will stand for it.’" Lani’ quoted the statement verbatim from her PADD. “What he should understand is that as a Starfleet Officer, I took an oath to stand for the ideals of the Federation. His attitude and his impatience could prove to be an extraordinary deficit – over and above the disadvantages we already have to face and overcome. For someone who seems very anxious to place the crew and complement of a Starfleet vessel in a subordinate role, Jovek is apparently incapable of grasping that he is himself already in one… to you, Ambassador, and to your Hierarchy. Even his response of physically shaking and puffing up when placed on the defensive suggest he is no better than a ravening Ha’DIbaH! ‘You must excuse the Commander,’ you said, Ambassador. The only excuse I can think of for him is that his mother couldn’t fly away fast enough! I really must recommend that he be given duties away from any main team in this. Let him lead a diversion, if necessitated, but only to divert him.” (Reply Salid, Dralar, Signos, Fraiser) “For my part, yes, I am a Science Officer. However, Dralar, what you do not know is that I am also a trained Engineer and was, until quite recently, an accomplished Admiral of my own fleet! I am Klingon but I am also Vulcan — Tactical Efficiency married to Dispassionate Logic. Science is merely poking things with sticks, and making careful assessments based upon observed reactions. Klingons favor very pointed sticks. Engineering is ‘Applied Science.’ And, as I’m sure every Skorr is taught before they can fly — with the evident exception of Ha’DIbaH Jovek — there is a Science to war. But let us not forget here, the proverb that goes ‘The best victory is when the opponent surrenders of its own accord before there are any actual hostilities... It is best to win without fighting.’” (Reply Salid, Dralar, Signos, Fraiser) (Posted by Frank) --------------- (USS Rosenante- Observation Lounge- Ambassador Dralar-Day 3- 0936) In the expected fashion, Salid's junior officers immediately began their questions and comments. If there was one thing that had not changed much where the captain and his crew was concerned it was the fact that he expected his people to voice themselves. The Klingon-Vulcanoid Lanista was the first to begin, a fact which did not escape his notice. "This so-called High Flight Commander of yours, jo' veH - whose name in my tongue means the 'limits of the machine,'" she said. "He seems to be convinced of the outcome here without first letting diplomatic action actually be implemented. You said he is renowned among your people. What is the basis of that renown? Soothsaying? ‘When diplomacy fails’, he said. Evidently his is not aware that Diplomacy is the Art of letting someone Else have Your way. I would like to know first what his role in this endeavor is, and whether or not you have considered assigning him to some duty where he will be in no position to compromise successful completion of our now Joint mission." Dralar locked eyes with the science officer. "Do not misunderstand Lanista. Jovek is a High Fleet Commander, the highest ranking member of our military forces and an extremely accomplished commander, who has earned the respect of every Skorr Warrior through his courage, combat acumen and dedication to duty. To have been in the same room with him is an honor that you should cherish. He commands the entire military forces at the behest of my father, and for him to be placed in a subservient position to anyone else is exceptionally…uncommon. I warn you not to underestimate his willingness to carry out his duties nor his ability to do so. He is the hammer and I am the silken glove. If I fail, he will not. The hammer is made to bash and crush, it does not understand the ways of the glove. It would be to your folly to consider him dim-witted or narrow-minded. He will obey my orders, because that is what he was commanded to do. But my father has given him a means to determine for himself when diplomacy has failed. Consider yourself fortunate that he has even agreed to allow me to attempt diplomacy in the first place. My father's first thought was to level this world and remind everyone why the Skorr are to be feared and respected. It was my suggestion that Diplomacy be attempted here in the first place." Lanista continued. "Jovek said also, ‘…you should not be here…. If all you wish to do is talk, then you should go home and debate your policy with your Federation Council and leave the fighting to the warriors and soldiers. I am surprised that the Klingon will stand for it.’" Lani’ quoted the statement verbatim. "What he should understand is that as a Starfleet Officer, I took an oath to stand for the ideals of the Federation. His attitude and his impatience could prove to be an extraordinary deficit – over and above the disadvantages we already have to face and overcome. For someone who seems very anxious to place the crew and complement of a Starfleet vessel in a subordinate role, Jovek is apparently incapable of grasping that he is himself already in one… to you, Ambassador, and to your Hierarchy. Even his response of physically shaking and puffing up when placed on the defensive suggest he is no better than a ravening Ha’DIbaH! ‘You must excuse the Commander,’ you said, Ambassador. The only excuse I can think of for him is that his mother couldn’t fly away fast enough! I really must recommend that he be given duties away from any main team in this. Let him lead a diversion, if necessitated, but only to divert him." "Apparently Jovek is not the only one who misunderstands diplomacy." Dralar replied, "Let us be clear lieutenant. You do not dictate what role High Fleet Commander Jovek will play in the coming days. You are a science officer and a lieutenant. Your current position does not lend itself well to dictating terms to me. If it is your intention to create a war between our peoples, then you should continue on your present course of disrespect, because I will not tolerate such an insult to tarnish the honor of my people and our military. Jovek's mother was a member of the royal family, she was a cousin of mine, and she was noble in birth and in deed, so I suggest that you retract your comments before I decide that I have no need of your cooperation here." But Lanista continued on, digging herself deeper. "For my part, yes, I am a Science Officer. However, Dralar, what you do not know is that I am also a trained Engineer and was, until quite recently, an accomplished Admiral of my own fleet! I am Klingon but I am also Vulcan — Tactical Efficiency married to Dispassionate Logic. Science is merely poking things with sticks, and making careful assessments based upon observed reactions. Klingons favor very pointed sticks. Engineering is ‘Applied Science.’ And, as I’m sure every Skorr is taught before they can fly — with the evident exception of Ha’DIbaH Jovek — there is a Science to war. But let us not forget here, the proverb that goes ‘The best victory is when the opponent surrenders of its own accord before there are any actual hostilities... It is best to win without fighting.’" Dralar's eyes narrowed. His muscles tensed but he managed to hold back his desire to leap forward and rip out the lieutenant's throat with his beak. "How dare you lecture me on the precepts of war." he stated. The captain, caught the tone in his voice and rose to his feet. "Mister Ambassador, we have other things to discuss." "No captain, " Dralar responded turning his head to face Salid. "Jovek was correct. It was a foolish to think that you and your crew could be trusted to help me prevent conflict here. The attitudes of your junior officers speak loudly enough. We are finished here. I will deal with the Aquillians on my own. Your assistance and your cooperation will no longer be required. Had I wished to be insulted, to have my family and my people insulted, I would have hired a Ferengi to do the job. I will return to my ship now." Ahmed looked at Lanista, his eyes burning with anger, he turned back to the Ambassador, "Ambassador. please there's a great deal more here at stake than just our personal honor. There are millions of people who will be killed or maimed if we do not work together towards a peaceful solution." (reply Lanista, Fraiser, Signos) Daniel Greene --------------- (USS Rosenante- Observation Lounge- CSO, LT tlha'nISta', Day 3- 0938) “Captain… Ambassador…” said Lani’. “If I may… Sirs, QoS jIH. I’m sorry, if my Klingon bluntness came across as a lecture or insult. You paid us the honor of confessing confusion earlier, at a time when you were already making preparations for combat. The sword is still sharp in the sheath, it is said. I sought to honor you by showing you my own approach to matters. And to communicate to you the answer to one of your earlier queries – why would a scientist be at a war council. To be in command of a military held in such high regard as you own is a situation I regrettably had to surrender ... due to Klingon law. To be able to fly, so much the better. Your species must have a near-instinctive understanding of three-dimensional tactics – a skill the rest of us have to work to study. I believe that our assistance and cooperation to you will still be of value, and necessary. The basis of working out the form that will take depends on knowing what is on the table.” tlha'nISta' placed her PADD and then her ahn-woon 'belt' on the conference table. She added, "I was placing data on the table for you to factor into your considerations. But I would no more seek to school you than I would myself be taught chess by a Pakled." Lani' looked at the ahn-woon -- a weapon by nature -- and then at the Ambassador in such a way as to suggest that if Dralar were offended enough to take action, it should be against her rather than Salid, the Rosenante, or the planet below. (Reply Salid, Dralar) (Posted by Frank) --------------- (USS Rosenante - Observation Lounge - ATAC Ensign (sg) Jessica Signos - Day 3- 0941) Jessica had remained quite observing the Skorr dignitaries, reading there body language, how they spoke to each other and how they interacted with the personnel on the Rosenante. She did has she was ordered and lead the small contingent to the Observation Lounge. She watched how the Skorr interacted with Captain Salid. She knew Dralar has a member of this crew would show the Captain a measure of respect but the actions of the others were less than friendly. It was a tense situation and one that if not handeled carefully could go wrong in a hundred different ways. Than Lani spoke while her words did have some merit. This was not the situation for Klingon tact which meant she had none. More insulting the Ambassador, his staff, and his people. Angered the Skorr Ambassador was about to leave when Lani spoke again in an attempt to save face. It was then that the small woman chose to speak. "Ambassador, if I may a word." Jessica interjected hoping to get Dralar attention. "I am sorry that this visit has not gone has planned. I know you were counting on seeing more faces that were familiar to you and thus knowing certain reactions. I know that this was not the impact you wanted to show your high commander. But I must ask for you not to make haste, I'm sure you know from your position of authority the views held by one are not always the views held by everyone under your command." (reply any) Jessica took a slight pause to allow her to catch her breath. No one knew what it was like to have two conflicting opinions better than she did. "Has for myself I tend to agree with your high commander, that swift decisive action needs to be carried out. However I don't think declaring full out war on the Veil will be to anyone's benefit. I mean no offense this is only my opinion," she turned to Salid hoping her words did not find his spark his anger any more than that of the Skorr ambassador. "Has I'm sure we all know everything happens for a reason. Our enemy has a plan what we need to try to decipher is what that plan is. I feel the Veil are just pawns in a much larger game of chess and this is only the opening moves. Let's ask ourselves this. 'What do the Veil gain by taking the Skorr Ambassador and member of the Royal line hostage.' Thing about it the Veil would have to know or at least heard of the Skorr's military might and eagerness to wage war. The Veil have nothing to gain besides there destruction by making such a move against your race Ambassador." (reply Dalar, iyw) "Now lets look at what could from where we stand here, I'm sure we can all agree that we will find ourselves in a difficult situation. If the Skorr decide to move military against the Veil the federation will be forced to act in a manner to protect the people of the planet in question. This would put the Skorr and the Federation at odds." Jessica looked to Salid and to Dalar in hopes that they would be in agreement of her assessment of the situation before continuing. (reply Salid, Dralar, any) "This is not course of events I think any of us want to deal with. The point I wish to make is, who will gain. The answer to this is the same has who is the hidden supplier behind the Veil, and that is what we sould be focusing are attention on. To kill the serpent you must cut off its head. Attacking the Veil will do nothing more than get us a lot needless dead, leaving the true mastermind unscathed. And I for one have to much repect for both the Federation and the Skorr hierarchy to see either made the fool in such a fashion." (reply all in the Observation lounge) (posted by Matthew Locke.) --------------- (USS Rosenante- Observation Lounge- Ambassador Dralar-Day 3- 0943) "Captain… Ambassador…" said Lanista. "If I may… Sirs, QoS jIH. I’m sorry, if my Klingon bluntness came across as a lecture or insult. You paid us the honor of confessing confusion earlier, at a time when you were already making preparations for combat. The sword is still sharp in the sheath, it is said. I sought to honor you by showing you my own approach to matters. And to communicate to you the answer to one of your earlier queries – why would a scientist be at a war council. To be in command of a military held in such high regard as you own is a situation I regrettably had to surrender ... due to Klingon law. To be able to fly, so much the better. Your species must have a near-instinctive understanding of three-dimensional tactics – a skill the rest of us have to work to study. I believe that our assistance and cooperation to you will still be of value, and necessary. The basis of working out the form that will take depends on knowing what is on the table." The Science officer placed her PADD and then her ahn-woon 'belt' on the conference table. She added, "I was placing data on the table for you to factor into your considerations. But I would no more seek to school you than I would myself be taught chess by a Pakled." Dralar looked her in the eyes, she was a fierce one, passionate and brave and the Skorr Ambassador could tell that it was a very difficult thing for her to admit she was wrong and to attempt to reconcile the rift that she had propagated. While her apology may not be exactly accurate, the very fact that she had chosen to apologize at all told him that she was much different than any Klingon or Vulcan he had ever met and that perhaps her unique ancestry gave her a unique insight into things that others may not see. Still she needed some discipline and some means to understand that there was a time for insults and a time for diplomacy. He looked down at the ahn-woon belt. It was an ancient weapon and one that the Skorr often considered especially effective. It was a singular fusion of Vulcan logical design and the unbridled passions that once ruled them. He picked the belt up, weighing the heavy steel spheres that marked the killing aspect of the weapon carefully in his hands. thoughts of putting down the upstart woman passed through his mind, and he knew that he would be satisfied with that result, although he also felt that perhaps so would Lanista, and thereby he would lose the contest of wills that had been put into place. "Ambassador, if I may a word?" The voice came from Jessica Signos, one of the most quiet security officers he'd ever seen at this sort of meeting. It seemed that she had a voice after all, and had been merely listening until this point to intercede. "I am sorry that this visit has not gone as planned. I know you were counting on seeing more faces that were familiar to you and thus knowing certain reactions. I know that this was not the impact you wanted to show your high commander. But I must ask for you not to make haste, I'm sure you know from your position of authority the views held by one are not always the views held by everyone under your command." Dralar turned to regard the small woman. He bobbed his head, "Yes, that truth is well known to us." "As for myself I tend to agree with your high commander, that swift decisive action needs to be carried out. However, I don't think declaring full out war on the Veil will be to anyone's benefit. I mean no offense this is only my opinion," she turned to Salid. The captain gave her a nod, perhaps to reassure her. "As I'm sure we all know, everything happens for a reason. Our enemy has a plan. What we need to try to decipher is what that plan is. I feel the Veil are just pawns in a much larger game of chess and this is only the opening moves. Let's ask ourselves this. 'What do the Veil gain by taking the Skorr Ambassador and member of the Royal line hostage?' Think about it. The Veil would have to know or at least heard of the Skorr's military might and eagerness to wage war. The Veil have nothing to gain besides thier destruction by making such a move against your race Ambassador." Dralar cocked his head to one side. "This is true, I find it unlikely that anyone would have not heard of our skill at war." he replied, validating Signos' comments. "Now let's look at what could happen from where we stand here, I'm sure we can all agree that we all find ourselves in a difficult situation. If the Skorr decide to move the military against the Veil the Federation will be forced to act in a manner to protect the people of the planet in question. This would put the Skorr and the Federation at odds." Jessica looked to first the Captain and then to the Ambassador before continuing. "I agree with that assessment," Salid replied. "As do I." Dralar responded. "This is not the course of events I think any of us want to deal with. The point I wish to make is, who will gain? The answer to this is the same as the hidden supplier behind the Veil, and that is what we should be focusing are attention on. To kill the serpent you must cut off its head. Attacking the Veil will do nothing more than get us a lot needless dead, leaving the true mastermind unscathed. And I for one have too much respect for both the Federation and the Skorr Hierarchy to see either made the fool in such a fashion." Dralar tested the weight of the Ahn-woon in his hand as he mulled over the words that Signos had spoken. It did not take him long to reach a decision. He reached out and took Lanista's hand and gently placed the Ahn-woon in her open palm. "You are fearless Klingon." he replied, "and passionate. I will forgive any insult made, as you spoke without all the information known to you. I will accept your offering and return your weapon to you. You spoke bravely, and without hesitation. While the content of your words could have been more diplomatic, the passion of them is important. Take this and use it against your enemies and not your allies." (reply Lanista iyw) Dralar turned back to Salid, "Your junior officers may be different, but I see that they have the best of intentions. We will continue to work together." "Thank you Ambassador." "We will continue to support air superiority on the planet. We will hold off any attack as long as we are able, however, should they kill our ambassador, or fail to release him within a fair amount of time, I will have no choice and my Father's orders will be carried out. In return for this, I wish to be included in all negotiations which I will permit you to control for now. If your negotiations deviate from the goals of the Hierarchy, I will resume separate negotiations of my own." Ahmed nodded, "Those are reasonable request and concessions, Ambassador. I agree to your terms. I ask only that you notify us prior to reaching the point where you will be dispatching your forces." Dralar looked at the captain, "Very well, but know that we will fulfill our mission. The only question is the manner on which it is to be fulfilled." Ahmed nodded. "I would like to return to my ship now. There is much to prepare for." "Of course Ambassador, there is a security team waiting outside to escort you back to the transporter room." Salid replied. "Thank you captain. I look forward to hearing from you soon." Dralar replied. "And I you ambassador." The door slid open as Dralar headed towards it and the security officer steeped inside. Salid must have pushed a button somewhere. "Lieutenant, please escort the Ambassador to the transporter room. He has requested that he return to his ship. "Aye sir." Once the Ambassador and his security team had departed, Salid leveled his glare at the assembled officers. He was both disappointed and proud at the same time. "Observations?" (reply Lanista, Signos, Fraiser) Daniel Greene --------------- (USS Rosenante- Observation Lounge- CSO/Lt. tlha’nISta’, Day 3- 0949) Lani’ grinned a Vulcanly toothy grin. Among pure-blood Klingons, she had the dentition of an herbivore. Her mixed ancestry had been the basis of derision and mockery throughout her life. Aboard the chalche’yon, her birthplace and eventually her first duty post, assertions by shipmates that she was part Romulan rather than Vulcan ultimately became the basis of an honor-claim that resulted in the deaths of three people. At the Academy, Lanista had had to explain ‘I’ve killed more people than you’ve met’ on more than one occasion. Lani’ did not have (nor did she seek) many friendships while a Cadet. However, with Dralar she thought she might have made one, as the Skorr Ambassador gently placed her Ahn-woon in her hand and said, "You are fearless, Klingon, and passionate. I will forgive any insult made, as you spoke without all the information known to you. I will accept your offering and return your weapon to you. You spoke bravely, and without hesitation. While the content of your words could have been more diplomatic, the passion of them is important. Take this and use it against your enemies and not your allies." This was why Lani’ was grinning. Dralar would be a powerful ally, but he had taken her words as an apology and as a confession of shortcoming on her part – precisely as she had intended. The volatility of his response had been the phenomenon she’d wished to plumb. Her ‘inopportune’ commentary on Jovek had merely been the ‘sharp stick’ she’d selected to engage in the science of poking the situation. She had learned more than Dralar probably intended. “Ambassador,” tlha’nISta’ said, tying the ahn-woon back on as her belt. “Our cultures are not so very different. It is no secret the Klingons favor glory. Songs are sung of my exploits as, I’m sure, your victories are celebrated among your people. We will add this present circumstance to the repertoires of our respective balladeers. It is likewise no secret that Vulcans favor logic. It is logical, then, that a species born to flight should satisfy the air-supremacy aspect of this mission. Those of us born to the ground, on the ground.” Yes, this birdman had passed her test. But he had also failed it. Partly. He had revealed that his passion would cause him to cast aside the long-standing peace between the Federation and the Hierarchy – on merely the strength of one insult from someone in a subservient position. He had revealed that he would accept the appearance of an apology instead of an actual one. Lanista had said “I’m sorry” in a perfectly grammatical Klingon way. Klingon, however, was difficult for people to understand if they were not native speakers. Universal translators were notorious for ‘getting it wrong’. "The Universal Translator would be recognized…" one elder Starfleet officer had famously said. Lani’ knew the limitations of the device, suspected Dralar was not as fluent in Klingon as Lani’ was, and surmised the U.T. would convey ‘QoS jIH‘ as an apology. Grammatically correct, the phrase was meaningless. It had no social context. The proper way to apologize in Klingon was the rarely uttered ‘jItlhIj’. And that was a phrase Lani’ would never have spoken. But the situation was now clearer than it had been just moments ago. Lanista believed that her provoking Dralar to anger had contributed to Intel being revealed without the birdman having considered what cards he put on the table. While it was Signos who suggested that Those Behind the Veil were likely attempting to undermine the peace between the Federation and the Hierarchy, Dralar agreed with that assessment. Whether the villains of the piece were Cardassian or Romulan was presently immaterial. Either of the two empires would benefit if a war weakened Starfleet and/or Skorr. Dralar turned to Salid, "Your junior officers may be different, but I see that they have the best of intentions. We will continue to work together." Lanista wondered if interjecting here would serve matters at all. ~Has not the Captain essentially said, ‘My diplomats are on the planet already. These officers before you are not them.’~ Deciding not to voice the sentiment, Lani’ couldn’t help but feel that she had been asked to this meeting to prime the emotional pump. Once the Ambassador and his security team had departed, Salid leveled his glare at the assembled officers. "Observations?" Salid said. “wejpuH,” Lanista said. The word meant ‘Charming’, but in Klingon it was only ever used sarcastically. Lani’s tone, however, was in no way sarcastic. She actually did find Dralar charming. “I remain concerned, Captain, that Dralar and his birdmen have already concluded diplomacy will fail. While I can fully understand – and even envy – being in a position to visit violent reprisal upon this planet, I don’t see the need for it. Dralar and Jovek want for bloodshed. That much is clear. Even before this meeting, Dralar mentioned making tactical preparations should diplomacy fail. Jo’ veH, whose name would actually mean the ‘limitations of the machine’ in Klingon, would pursue this mechanically. ‘Collateral damage’ would be equated to ‘acceptable losses’. Dralar, on the strength of an honor-claim against me alone, was willing to sacrifice peace with the Federation. That either of them was that close to that stance was something that needed to be discovered. We have an expression in the Empire, sir. Essentially, ‘test it till it breaks.’ This alliance is nearly broken already if it can be challenged by a few off-hand remarks from a junior officer. Perhaps reinforcements would be prudent…” (Reply any present) (Posted by Frank) --------------- (Kravis, Bridge, Gul Matan, Day 3, 1005) Matan was standing before the main view screen on the Kravis' bridge, the arrival of the Skorian warship was troubling and complicated matters. The initial talks with the Veil had assured him that all Skorian's would have been moved from the planet, apparently that wasn't the case. Now he had two ships to contend with and he had a feeling there was at least one Romulan warbird out there somewhere. The arrival of the Rosenante was expected, the Federation always sent a ship to try and negotiate this or that. Matan was prepared for this and when the time was right he would have made his presence known. He strode back to his command chair and sat down, the Skorian's where going to be the proverbial thorn in his side. The Kravis was no match for the worldripper class battle ship, the Rosenante he could deal with one to one. He may have to resort to talking his way out of this one if he wanted to survive, he could only hope the Skorian ship would leave. He didn't want to fight them, they would decimate his ship and likely head straight to Cardassia Prime for spite. The Skorian's were ferocious in battle, no one wanted to irritate them or face them. He rose once again from his command chair, this was beginning to trouble him slightly. "Notify me if anything changes." He ordered before leaving the bridge. (reply none) (posted by Milo Young) --------------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Atlantis Station – Sec/Tac Ensign Blake Turner- Day 3 - 1018) "Thank you Miss Turner" Kaloth said as he released her slightly too-cool hand. "I know you must be very busy, and I appreciate the time that you have given me to meet with you. My name is Kaloth and I am president of Beta Aquillia IV, although it may not seem to be the case from your seat." "I have come to ask what sort of commitment and support we can expect from our Federation allies in dealing with our current crisis? I have long been waiting for your arrival, knowing that my allies would not allow us to be swept aside by such violent and fanatical elements as the Veil of the Sky. I would like to begin aiding you, by participating in all security and operational meetings and helping to coordinate our military forces with your own. Now that you are here, we can take back the planet and restore the relationship that the Federation and my world has long enjoyed. I would also very much like to speak with Ambassador turner whenever she has some time to spare." Knowing that her face betrayed her emotion, Blake worked hard to fix a smile onto her face as she replied, “I’m sorry, Mr President. Ambassador Turner has not been located, safely. It appears that the Veil have her. They refuse to return her at present.” (reply Kaloth) Blake nodded and continued, “As for the commitment and support... we are here to give as much is needed. We, as far as Commander Soma has explained, will be negotiating with the leaders of the Veil of the sky for a peaceful solution to this conflict.” (Reply Kaloth) “Sir, If i may ask a question?” (Reply Kaloth) Blake sighed and said, “What is Ambassador Turner like, as a person?” (Reply Kaloth) Smiling, she said, “I’d like to know what kind of ally we have with her.” (Reply Kaloth) (Posted by Jackie Smith) --------------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Atlantis Station - President in Exile- Kaloth- Day 3 - 1020) The face of the young woman seemed to taken on a crestfallen appearance and Kaloth immediately realized that something was not right here. "I’m sorry, Mr President." she replied after a moment, "Ambassador Turner has not been located, safely. It appears that the Veil have her. They refuse to return her at present." " I see, that is… unfortunate. The Ambassador was a close friend and ally of mine." He replied with a sense of loss. Now his cause, the cause of his people might well be placed in jeopardy without a strong ally in the Federation camp. Blake nodded and continued, "As for the commitment and support... we are here to give as much as is needed. We, as far as Commander Soma has explained, will be negotiating with the leaders of the Veil of the sky for a peaceful solution to this conflict." ~Negotiating?~ He thought to himself, as a stone of dread buried itself deep within the pit of his stomach. "I see…" he replied almost dejectedly. The Veil had won even before the Federation had arrived. His government and the dream of democratic freedom had been smothered in its sleep. “Sir, If I may ask a question?” Kaloth nodded his head, as he snapped back into the reality of the situation. "Of course." He replied. Blake sighed and said, "What is Ambassador Turner like, as a person?" "An interesting question. Why would you like to know?" He inquired Smiling, she said, "I’d like to know what kind of ally we have with her." That's when it struck him. Joanne and Blake were related somehow, although it was apparent that it was a distant relation rather than a close one. "Ambassador Turner is an honest and fair woman. She fights to overcome obstacles and is driven to excellence. I have found her to be a worthy adversary and the best of friends. She is a blessed woman, chosen to represent her people and to help my people find their rightful place in the universe. I admire her and respect her. And I worry for her safety." (reply Turner) "You are her relative?" He asked (reply Turner) Daniel Greene --------------- (Beta Aquillia IV- Government Offices- Ambassador Tzorn- Day 3, 1600) Tzorn paced impatiently outside the door to the president's office. He had been summoned just a short while ago, and the very fact that he had been noticed by the new president made him more than just a little uneasy. Tzorn had been an ambassador top the United Federation of planets for the last decade. He had worked within the administration of three different presidents during that time, pressing improved relations with the United federation of Planets. His many accomplishments included trade agreements, immigration agreements, and the promotion of political and social agendas to bring the two nations loser together. He was good at his job, and always had been, which is why he'd managed to keep it through the various administration changes and the different foreign policy directives through the years, but now he was wondering if he was about to become a victim of his own success. After all, he had been working to promote the very thing that the Veil were most fanatically opposed to. They wanted isolation, which directly opposed negotiation with any foreign power, which in turn meant no real need for a Diplomatic Corps. He had worked diligently for the prior administration and it was conceivable to him that he could very well have worked himself into an early grave. yet something wasn't quite ringing true with that belief. If they had wanted to get rid of him, they could already have done so with ease. The very fact that they had summoned him here and were not providing him with a heavily armed escort was some level of proof that his services were still needed. Finally the door to the office opened and the man acting as the president's secretary stood in the door way. He was a severe looking man, and the look of complete disgust on his face was apparent. He made no effort to hide his feelings. ~And why should he?~ The Ambassador thought, ~He conforms to the policies and beliefs of the new regime.~ "The president will see you now." He stated crisply. Tzorn nodded, and took a deep breath. He then put on his best face and stepped into the office. Habrii was sitting behind the massive desk that had been used by previous presidents. stacks of digital display devices were everywhere. The current leader of the government looked up at him as he entered the room. "Sit down Mister Ambassador." Habrii commanded. Tzorn complied, settling uneasily into a seat opposite the president's desk. "You have been the Ambassador to the federation for a very long time, Tzorn. You have masterminded many trade agreements, exchanges and promoted corruption and cooperation with the off worlders." Habrii commented, "Your misguided efforts have allowed them to rape our planet's resources and to establish a imperial governance of our world through the last three puppet governments that previously ruled this world." Tzorn wasn't able to speak, the fear that he was about to be executed moved to the pit of his stomach and he felt as if he were going to be sick. "I…I, " he began. "It's unimportant now, Tzorn. You were following orders. You were brainwashed into thinking that you were aiding the population by promoting these things. You are not to blame, you were merely a pawn." Habrii continued. Tzorn could only nod. "But you have given excellent service to your people, even if it was misguided. I wish to know if you want to make amends for your previous mistakes by serving the proper needs of the people. Will you serve as ambassador now, and help us undo all the corruption and pillaging that the previous administrations have promoted?" Habrii looked Tzorn directly in the eyes. His gaze was unwavering, committed and frightening. "I have always served. I see the error of my prior career and wish to make amends." Tzorn replied and then he broke Habrii's gaze. "I will act as your ambassador." A sense of shame washed over him. "Very good." Habrii replied, "I knew that you were a loyal and true believer and not a traitor as had been suggested. I trust that you will serve us well." "Yes of course. How can I help the cause?" (Reply None) Daniel Greene --------------- (Beta Aquillia IV- Federation Embassy- Ambassador Tzorn- Day 3, 1625) Tzorn was surprised at the lack of damage that the building had sustained during the raid and capture of the Federation Ambassador and most of her stance. The action had been well planned, and already the grounds were being repurposed to act as the center for Diplomacy, as Habrii had indicated. This would be the place that the meetings between the Federation and the new Aquillian Government would take place, in the very conference room once used by Ambassador Turner. Tzorn regarded the box of personal items that had been collected. They belonged to the office's prior occupant, Ambassador Turner, and he had made a point of having them packaged so that they could be sent to the federation ship when the negotiations had ended. Turner had been a good ambassador and it pained him to consider the sort of treatment that she must be undergoing under the new regime. He felt that it was within her best interest for him to achieve his new goals so that she could be released. He slid behind the desk that once belonged to her and took a moment to organize his thoughts. Veil Intelligence indicated at A federation officer named Soma, the first officer of the Starship Rosenante had already arrived on the planet. He would be the first person that Tzorn would contact to arrange a meeting. If that failed, he'd move up the chain of command to the captain of the starship. He simply hoped that he would be able to accomplish his goal soon, before it was too late for the Ambassador. He reached out and activated the communication console, which had been repurposed for his use. He entered his secured information, which no doubt allowed members of the Veil's secret police to eavesdrop on the conversation and attempted to open a channel. "Ambassador Tzorn representing the government of Beta Aquillia IV requesting a channel with Lieutenant Commander Benjamin Soma. I wish to discuss the opening of diplomatic relations with you. Please respond." (reply Soma) Daniel Greene --------------- (Beta Aquillia IV- Atlantis Station- FO- Lt. Cmdr Ben Soma- Day 3, 1627) Ben was going over the current status reports before sending them up to the Rose, the teams had wasted little time once they arrived and set up the camps, blockades, and command centers in record time. The Veils repeated nightly bombings had continued but hadn't hampered their efforts in the least, that is once they figured out what was going on. So far they hadn't caused any damage, either because they couldn't or were unwilling to do so. So far they hadn't heard anything from the Veil, no demands or requests for negotiations. This bothered hims slightly, someone should have contacted them by now regarding their situation. When they first arrived Captain Salid had attempted to contact the Veil's leaders but didn't receive a reply. Ben had taken it as a sign that they were unwilling to negotiate their position but now he wondered if it was because they hadn't thought that far ahead yet. He was about to leave his make shift quarters/office when his combadge beeped and then emitted a strange voice. =/\=Ambassador Tzorn representing the government of Beta Aquillia IV requesting a channel with Lieutenant Commander Benjamin Soma. I wish to discuss the opening of diplomatic relations with you. Please respond.=/\= ~Better late then never~ Ben tapped his combadge. "This is Lieutenant Commander Ben Soma," Ben replied. "Ambassador Tzorn it is agreeable to hear from you, we attempted to contact the current government upon our arrival but never received a reply. I believe it is in both our interests to open diplomatic relations as soon as possible." Ben had to play his cards right, there was a lot riding on the proceedings about to take place, peace or war were two of many possible outcomes. He hoped for the former and wanted to avoid the later if at all possible. "I propose we meet in a neutral location." He said. "Is that acceptable to you?" (reply Tzorn) (posted by Milo Young) --------------- (Beta Aquillia IV- Federation Embassy- Ambassador Tzorn- Day 3, 1628) =^=This is Lieutenant Commander Ben Soma, =^= Ben replied. =^=Ambassador Tzorn it is agreeable to hear from you, we attempted to contact the current government upon our arrival but never received a reply. I believe it is in both our interests to open diplomatic relations as soon as possible. I propose we meet in a neutral location. Is that acceptable to you? =^= "I am also pleased to hear from you Commander. It is my hope that we can come to an agreement concerning our current situation quickly and efficiently. However, I am working under very strict requirements, and if there is to be any discussion between us, there are some limitations that I must adhere to." Tzorn replied. "while I would normally welcome a truly neutral location to hold our discussions I do not know that such a place exists currently. However, I have been authorized to conduct our meetings at the prior site of your Federation Embassy. It is a place with which you are already familiar and one that serves my new government's purposes as well. We have many things to discuss commander and I urge you to consider my offer of location carefully. I have been told that if you were to refuse that there will be no further negotiations between us and that, as you know would prove very disastrous for us all. you can, of course bring a small staff and some security personnel, armed, if you like. We would be able to meet with you tomorrow morning at 0900 hours local time." (reply Soma) Daniel Greene =============== Compiled by Milo Young ===============