Crossover Fan Fiction ❯ Proud Legion ❯ Senate ( Chapter 5 )

Proud Legion
By: bsmart

Disclaimer: Rated R for the good stuff, you’ve been warned. I don’t own Trek, but the people who do probably shouldn’t either.

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Chapter 5: Senate

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"It's a trap," Harry said. "Sir," he added after the fact.

"That's fairly obvious," Johan said. "We acknowledge this, do anything with this and the Romulans have their little war. We should smile, nod, and tell them to get lost."

"What if it's not?" Deekan said calmly.

"What?" Harry asked.

"What if it is not a trap? What if this is an honest request."

"Did you miss the part about them being Romulans?" Johan asked. "The only time they're honest is after they've shoved the knife in your back."

"But what if Commander Braal is right?" Cesina asked. "If they really have seceded and we do nothing the Romulans will wipe them out, make an example of them."

"It'll be a blood bath," Terzi said. "If the Empire really is hanging on by a thread they can't afford to show any weakness. The ones they don't kill we get work camps off world or worse."

"And if we're wrong we start a war," Harry said. "We should contact Starfleet command."

"We can't," Seven said. "The anomaly is preventing any long range communications. The only methods we have to contact the rest of Starfleet is either with a message torpedo or by physically traveling beyond the edge of the anomaly. At our current maximum speed it would take over a week to make it back to communications with Starfleet and return to this point in space."

"We're going to have to hear them out," Timothy said. He looked to the Senator sitting at the end of the conference table. "Do you have an opinion?"

The Senator slowly shook her head. "At this time we have insufficient information to form an opinion. We will have to hear them out as you say."

Timothy sighed. She was right, if a tad arrogant about it. "I want all departments to run a full set of diagnostics. We're thirty five minutes from rendezvous with the Romulan shuttle. I want everything double checked and checked again. Ms. Seven, I want sensors as on the ball as you can get them. Do what you can to try and sniff out anything cloaked and waiting for us. Mr. Braal we're going to battlestations the moment we're out of here. Have everything spun up and ready to fight and I mean everything, phasers, torpedoes, shields. Have the pilots in their fighters and Commander Peili's marines in the shuttle bay. Mr. Kim, I want message torpedoes in the tubes ready to go. The situation is going to start changing rapidly. Everyone else, on the chance this is a trap, make sure your departments are prepared for it. If it's not, lets get ready to receive some guests. Dismissed." As the officers began to file out of the room Timothy placed his hand on T'prin's arm. "Senator, a moment?"

She nodded and sat down beside him. When the last of his crew had left Timothy began to speak. "Senator, if this is a trap I can deal with it. Combat is this ship's element. It's what we're good at. If it's not...," his voice trailed off as he contemplated the gravity of the situation. "If it's not we're going to find ourselves in a very awkward position. I would greatly appreciate your council."

T'prin inclined her head thoughtfully. "I must confess I am somewhat surprised at this request."

"Senator, no matter our differences of opinion I still value your's," Timothy said.

"I will provide you any council you need but I must point out that in this situation I am but a single senator. As the captain on scene any decisions ultimately made must rest with you."

There was a momentary flicker of disappointment in Timothy's mind. A small part of him wished there was some way out of this, to unload the responsibility onto the Senator. It was only a momentary feeling though. He'd known what he was getting into when he'd accepted his captaincy. These weren't the days of Kirk, Spock, and Sulu, when captains explored so far out into the wilds of space that they were totally on their own. These weren't their days, but a captain was still expected to be able to handle situations independently, to act in the stead of and on behalf of the entire Federation. "I understand Senator. I would appreciate your presence on the bridge and during any talks with the Romulans."

"I do not believe I have anything more pressing to attend to for the next few days."

Timothy chuckled. "If I didn't know any better I'd think you just made a joke."

T'prin raised one eyebrow. "But you do know better."

"I do," Timothy said.

"One other thing," T'prin added. "The reporter, Ms. Mavil." Timothy's gut locked up instantly. "I believe she should be present during all this."

"Senator, what's going to be happening here very shortly will have to be classified, highly. I can't invite a reporter to these kind of talks."

"Captain, this is a starship. Undoubtedly half the crew already know about the Romulan shuttle and in an hour they all will. Ms. Mavil will hear of this. If you do not allow her to have access to the proceedings she will undoubtedly fabricate something in order to stake her claim as the reporter on the scene. If she has access she will at the least write something somewhat factually accurate."

Timothy scowled. "I'm not going to have a reporter sitting on my bridge while I discuss the secession of three Romulan worlds."

"Captain, because of what you will be discussing you should have her there. This meeting could have serious implications for the Federation. Having a non-Starfleet viewpoint to rely on could provide some comfort to the general populace."

"Fine, she can be present. You are going to be in charge of her however. Make it clear to her that she is to observe only. Keep her mouth shut and her questions to herself. If I catch her within fifty meters of a Romulan without an escort she'll be riding the next message torpedo back to DS three."

"Understood," T'prin said.

Timothy pulled back the sleeve of his uniform. "Alright then, let's go meet our guests."

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Cossick felt an unease shiver pass down his spine as the Federation ship's tractor beams locked onto them and began to pull them towards the shuttle bay. The massive ship's nacelles alone dwarfed their shuttle. The bay they were being hauled into could swallow a dozen of their ships' with room to spare. He was very aware just how delicate this next portion of the operation was. They had no real power over the Federation types. They would have to convince them with words alone. They'd have to convince people with no real reason to trust them.

"Nervous Cossick?" Taliren asked.

"Who wouldn't be?" he shot back.

"I just hope your pet scientist can convince them about the disturbance. Our time table is tight."

"Sesk will do his job. He convinced us, and he's been right so far."

"These humans can be rather full of themselves when it comes to scientific matters though," Taliren pointed out.

"Yes, but I doubt even they'd be able to dismiss his work based off what's happening."

One of the battlecruiser's center shuttlebay doors began to open as the shuttle neared it. Inside they could see rows of shuttles and attack craft packed into the surprisingly crowded space. More than two dozen people were arrayed in the shuttlebay awaiting their arrival.

"Well at least they know how to properly welcome us," Taliren said.

Cossick didn't point out that fully half the people waiting for them looked to be carrying phaser rifles.

Timothy stood in the middle of the deck watching as the Romulan shuttle was guided into the bay. The green bird like shape slid through the containment field without even a whisper. It extended a set of landing skids as the tractor beams lowered it gently in to place dead center in front of them. The skids sank a bit as the tractors shut down and let them take the shuttles weight. No one in the shuttle bay said a word and he could hear the soft pings and pops as the shuttle adjusted from the vacuum of space to the pressurized shuttle bay.

He glanced up at the catwalks around the shuttle bay to the armed security personnel there. Unlike the squad playing honor guard on deck the marines on the catwalks were in full combat armor and carrying their heavy weapons. He doubted even a large shuttle full of Romulans could do anything but die futilely in the shuttle bay but he wasn't taking any chances. His own side arm was strapped to his thigh as was everyone else’s. The only unarmed person in the shuttlebay was the Senator beside him.

The small implant in Timothy's ear buzzed. "The shuttle's powering down," Lieutenant Commander Danor said, his voice small but clear from the implant and audible only to him. His report was confirmed as the various hums and growls of the shuttle's systems faded. Moments later a gangway dropped down from the belly of the shuttle and several Romulans emerged.

The first was the portly Romulan he'd spoken to on screen. Dressed in a dark orange coat that went almost to his knees and a dark, almost black pants he managed to exude the aura of a politician. The kind who's warm smile you couldn't remove with a quantum torpedo it was so deeply etched into their false countenance. Timothy loathed him already.

Following after his were two more male Romulans. The first was a very tall, very thin middle aged man. There were dark patches under his eyes and his hair was mussy. His plain tan long sleeved shirt and black pants were slightly wrinkled. He looked to Timothy to be someone who wasn't eating enough and had spent too many nights up late working on something important. He fidgeted, glancing around the shuttle bay nervously as he came. A stark contrast to the Governor who's eyes had never left Timothy's group. At the back came someone who instantly set off alarm bells in Timothy's head. He was taller than average, but not much so. Average build, maybe middle aged, a bit older than Timothy was if Romulans aged anything like humans, and they didn't. His dress was conservative, a simple gray jacket and blue pants. All of it so incredibly plain, not unlike the Senator's aide. Someone who cultivated a manner of dress and presentation specifically geared to be forgettable. It was the eyes though, they gave him away. Unlike Solin the Senator's aide who only concerned himself with T'prin this Romulan's eyes were everywhere. They'd settle onto some detail in the scene before him and linger there, measuring it, assessing it, cataloging it. He could practically see the wheels turning in his head. Before he'd ever said a word Timothy was sure he was Tal'shiar.

As the governor approached he kept a polite but reserved smile plastered on his face. "Governor," he said graciously as he extended his hand. "Welcome aboard the Typhoon."

Taliren paused for a moment then quickly grabbed Timothy's hand and shook it. "Thank you Captain. I apologize, shaking hands is not a traditional form of Romulan greeting."

Cossick watched as the human captain exchanged pointless pleasantries with the governor. How the Tal'shiar had difficulties infiltrating Starfleet was beyond him. Humans lacked any appreciable skill at subtlety. He could see the strain in the Captain's jaw as something bothered him. There might be hope for him yet if he found these saccharine platitudes loathsome. He was forced to admit that it could just be the human resisting the urge to order his troops to open fire and kill them all. Either one was acceptable to him though, so long as he had feelings and opinions they could be swayed. The worst thing they could have found would have been the typical Federation empty headed optimist in charge. He walked with Sesk, taking his position on Taliren's right shoulder as Sesk stood behind his left.

"This is Commander Cossick," Taliren said as he turned to the side. "He is our chief of intelligence and this," he said as he turned to the other, "is Sesk, the scientist who discovered and predicted the disturbance that is now afflicting us all."

Cossick kept his smile to himself as the Federation's eyes went wide at that little revelation. He supposed if he'd been in their position he'd want all the info he could get on the disturbance. If their sensors, communications, and engines were as affected by it as their's were then they must be very worried. He imagined the Romulan high command would be as terrified of the prospect of an invasion as the Federation was, if the high command had any idea what was going on out here, and they didn't. He'd seen to that.

He listened closely as the Captain introduced his crew. "This is Senator T'prin of Vulcan." The Vulcan woman nodded at them, but denied them the physical contact of the human. It was just as well to Cossick, telepaths made him nervous. He couldn't fathom how the Federation could be so cavalier about them. Admittedly the Vulcan's required physical contact, and a specific form of it, or so they said. He would still take no chances. "Commander Johan Luhrner my second in command," another human, much like Hayes dressed in their standard issue black, gray and red fatigues. "And Lieutenant Commander Peili, our chief security officer." The Orion woman caught Cossick's interest but not in a carnal way. He wasn't surprised the Federation had allowed a female Orion to join the ranks, they were a bunch of optimists and idealists. Rather it was her uniform. Unlike Hayes and Luhrner uniform had no coloration on the shoulders, it was simply black. On her shoulder was an odd badge, the United Federation of Planets logo with a sword behind it and the letters FDF beneath it. A quick glance confirmed that the badge was on all the Starfleet personnel’s right shoulder. Apparently the Federation Defense Force had recently crafted new uniforms for its members. "Finally, this is Bella Mavil, a reporter for United News," he said, motioning towards a young woman with curly blonde hair. His initial admiration for the captain was tempered a bit. A young woman with ensign's tabs on her collar stood behind Hayes but he declined to mention her, most likely an aide of some sort.

"Captain, while I would be quite happy to exchange pleasantries all day with you we do have a matter of some import and urgency to discuss," Taliren said.

Timothy nodded. "That we do. This way Governor." Timothy led them through the shuttlebay airlock and into the ship's corridors. Kaitlyn hustled up to walk beside him. "Have Leiutenant Faelst'rak join us in the main conference room, he'll want to speak to the Romulan scientist."

"Aye sir," she chirped.

"Also, arrange quarters for our guests, I don't know how long they'll be staying."

Kaitlyn nodded, her oversized PADD already in hand and making notes. Technically she didn't need the PADD, she was tied in intimately with the ship's computer. The PADD was just an affectation she kept in order to fit in with the crew a little easier.

Cossick was the last of the Romulan delegation out of the shuttlebay and he was inwardly pleased when he saw the Starfleet security personnel start to surround and closely scan the shuttle the instant they left. There was still a small crew onboard the ship but neither they nor the shuttle itself held any secrets. It was still reassuring to see the competent way they carried out their duties. It made him a little more at ease with this entire scheme. Even the presence of armed security personnel following them put him a bit more at ease. He didn't miss how they ensured that two burly armed men managed to squeeze into the turbolift with each load. Taliren, the human captain, his aide, and the first officer took the first lift with two security officers and he, Sesk, the Orion, , the reporter, and another security man rode the second.

During the ride to the bridge the Governor made no attempt at conversation and Timothy didn't either. He pulled his own PADD out of a thigh pocket and checked it. The doors onto the bridge itself were sealed. The turbo lift would deposit them in the small corridor that connected the bridge to the conference room and the door would make sure they didn't poke their noses anywhere they didn't belong. Peili had even stationed a pair of her marines at each entrance to the bridge according to the display. He'd have to remember to commend her for that later.

They stepped out of the turbolift and took a hard right, walking down the corridor to the conference room aft of the bridge. As the walked in they saw the other half of their group coming in through the doors on the far side of the room. The senior staff, including Lieutenant Fealst'rak, were already waiting for them. Timothy quickly took his seat and indicated for the Romulans to sit in the first three seats to his left while Johan took his customary seat to the right. Bella took a small seat in the corner of the room and put her ear piece recorder away. The conference room's scanners would record everything she could possibly need for a story.

As everyone settled the captain introduced the Romulans and then his command staff in turn. Cossick carefully committed their names, faces, and positions to memory. As the captain's senior staff they would be the ones he turned to for advice, convincing them would be critical to convincing the captain. He also noted Commander Kim's and Lt. Comamnder Danor's green and orange uniforms respectively which confirmed the FDF had made some significant changes in their uniforms from Starfleet norms. Apparently they had taken their break from the explorer corps seriously. When Timothy motioned for the Governor to start Cossick began to scan their faces, trying to ascertain their reactions.

"As I said in our initial transmission we represent the triumvirate worlds of Jaisalmer, Sarab, and Yecheng and we have seceded from the Romulan Star Empire. We are here to petition for protectorate status within the Federation."

Cossick saw the consternation and discomfort in their eyes. Except for the airwing commander, his facial structure seemed to be a rigid mass of bone with only his colorful frill to indicate any emotion. The science officer was unreadable as well, and subtly disquieting to be in the same room as he was.

"Our worlds are have long been restless under the rule of Romulus. We are simple worlds with few natural resources of note and little strategic value. The Senate paid us little mind but had no hesitancy to plunder our worlds of the riches we had, both material and the best and brightest of our young men and women to fuel the Empire's military might. After Shinzon's death at the hands of your Captain Picard the Empire fell into chaos. We took the opportunity and declared ourselves independent of the Empire. In retrospect it might have been foolish to think the Empire would be too busy with more important areas to not send a task force to reintegrate us into the Empire."

"Many of the initial leaders of the secession were rounded up and executed and many more were sent off world to work camps. A few escaped however and formed the nucleus of our attempt. You see captain, the people of our worlds have not stopped wanting to be free of the oppression of the Empire. Our movement suffered a setback, but we were not intimidated. When we learned of Doctor Sesk's discovery we moved quickly to prepare for the coming disturbance."

"You see Captain, this subspace disturbance has given us a chance we might not otherwise have. With this region of space difficult to traverse, scan, and communicate with we have an unprecedented opportunity to try again. To reach out to the Federation without warbirds immediately falling upon us, or Remans marching through our streets. For the moment the Empire is deaf and dumb to our machinations but that cannot last forever captain."

Cossick watched Taliren launch into the most critical portion of the speech. He'd tried to get the old bastard to listen to reason and practice it but he insisted that a rehearsed speech would just put the Federations off. He believed he needed to give it the personal touch of improvisation to really connect with them. Cossick had his doubts but so far his off the cuff style seemed to be working.

"Which brings me to our request," Taliren said as his tone slipped from a simple presentation of facts to a more heartfelt plea. "We've had it made clear to us before that we have no way to leave the Empire on our own. News of our rebellion will reach the Senate and they will respond with force. That is why we are requesting protectorate status with the Federation. The first stages of our rebellion are already underway. Our people have seized key governmental assets. However once this disturbance ends we have no doubt that loyalists will inform Romulus of our actions and even if they don't we cannot maintain a facade of everything being fine. We will be discovered and when we are we will be crushed." Taliren leaned forward. "We must have the Federation's help. We've done all we can but it will not be enough. Without your help the Empire will crush us again. With the Federation's help we can establish a free society without the tyranny of Romulus. Without they sucking our worlds dry of resources and our younger generation. Please captain, you must help us."

Cossick choked down a grimace. He understood why Taliren had spoken the way he had but it offended Cossick's pride to beg these people like that. He looked down the table at the captain. Cossick felt a moment of admiration as the Captain sat in his chair, still, not making a sound for several painfully long seconds. It was very Romulan of him. His officers also sat quietly waited for their commander to take the lead.

Timothy's body might not have been moving but only because his mind was too busy to bother. It was everything they could have wanted and everything they didn't all rolled up into one nice neat package. New worlds wanting to join the Federation, but for the moment one of their most bitter enemy owned them. A people requesting their help, but it could start a war. The Romulans showing real weakness, but that weakness could cost both sides millions of lives. There were too many questions and not enough answers. He had to start somewhere. "Are you responsible for this subspace anomaly?"

For the first time the tall wiry Romulan spoke up. "No captain and I'd be envious of anyone who could do such a thing at will."

"Doctor Sesk, correct?" Timothy asked and the scientist nodded. "What information do you have on this anomaly?"

Sesk pulled several data disks from a satchel he'd set beside his chair. "This is all the information we've collected on it, every last bit. Long range scans, reports, theoretical papers, models, short range sensor scans, everything. I assumed you would want to see it."

Timothy nodded and inclined his head towards the other end of the table. "Lieutenant Fealst'rak will want to review those. Also give Mr. Sesk access to our sensor logs of the anomaly. See if you can find some method to this madness."

Sesk passed the data disks towards the Lieutenant but quickly added. "Captain, by my estimation this period of maximum distortion in subspace will last a few more days, three at most. After that time limited communications will be restored and we will be discovered."

"Lieutenant, confirm that. Immediately," Timothy said.

"Aye, Captain...," Fealst'rak replied. "I... would like to begin study... of this... immediately."

"Do it, dismissed."

Sesk leaned over to Cossick and after Cossick nodded he left. That bit got Timothy's attention immediately. As the Ruurtic and the Romulan left Timothy continued. "As you can imagine I'm going to need some proof that this decision to secede is the will of the people of the planet, and not just of yours."

"Of course Captain," Taliren said. "We have detailed information about the earlier attempt at secession and this one. Polls, written statements, visual records, even some voting records where we were able to gather them. I can assure you captain, this movement is the will of the people of our worlds. We are sick of the yoke of the Empire and wish to be free."

"Have you informed the Empire of your grievances?"

"Repeatedly," Taliren assured him. "Envoys were dispatched prior to Shinzon's rise to power and after his downfall. Our entreaties have always fallen on deaf ears."

"And will you inform them of your secession?"

"Yes Captain, though we had hoped to do so as a protectorate of the Federation," Tailren said hopefully.

"Let's assume we agree, and we help you to break away from the Empire. Do you intend to stay with the Federation or will you renounce your status once you believe you are safe. At the moment it sounds like you're requesting our help just long enough to get away from the Empire."

"At this time we do not know Captain," Taliren replied causing several of the Federation officers to shift nervously in their seats. "It is a matter the people will have to decide for themselves. At this moment we are only trying to accomplish our goal, to be rid of the Empire's tyranny. We need your help to do that. I feel confident that your assistance will go a long way in convincing our people to join the Federation but I cannot guarantee it."

"At least you're honest about it," Johan said.

"At this point lies would be counterproductive and foolish," Cossick said quickly. "When trying to gain someone's trust it is best not to begin by lying to them."

Timothy held up his hand to keep his first officer from replying. "Gentlemen, you've given us a lot to think about. Would you please step outside for a moment so we can discuss it?"

"Of course Captain," the Governor said. "Take as much time as you need, just not too much."

Timothy nodded and both the Romulans headed out into the hallway. "Thoughts?" he asked as soon as they'd left.

Commander Kim wasted no time. "It's a trap, obviously sir. They send these guys out to find us. We take them up on the offer only this disturbance keeps us from confirming its a trap until we've already crossed the border and are in orbit of one of their worlds. They can use it as pretext for a war."

"I agree," Johan said slowly. "The timing is to coincidental and we know they are desperate for a way to stabilize their Empire. We could be giving them exactly what they need."

"I'd expect better from the Romulans," Terzi said. "Doesn't it seem just a little obvious?"

"It lacks a degree of guile I would have expected from them," Seven added.

"If we don't help them and they're genuine what then?" Cesina asked. "Do we just sit back and let them get crushed because it might be a trap?"

Binni piped up, "They seemed genuine to me. The Governor seemed to really believe what he was saying."

"My kingdom for a Betazoid," Johan grumbled.

"Before we commit to a course of action perhaps we should at least confirm the data we've been given," the Doctor said. "We're making some significant assumptions with little evidence one way or another."

Timothy nodded. "I agree. Commander Kim, get their information from them and start going over it. Commander Bul'ra, help him, and prep five message torpedoes for launch, this information has to get back to Starfleet. Once we get the data dumps from their scientist and from the Governor send it all, raw. Commander Seven, do your best to verify the veracity of what he's handing over, try and make sure nothing's been tampered with. Johan, go over what we've got on these worlds, see if we can confirm any of their story independently. Terzi, go with Fealst'rak and Sesk, see if you can find anything that might let us figure out how to get around this anomaly. The priority is communications. If you can do something about warp drive go for it but we need our comms up. Senator, do you have anything to add?"

T'prin shook her head slowly. "We must verify their claims before any logical conclusions can be reached."

"Alright." Timothy thumbed a switch on the desk before him. "Send them back in." Seconds later the doors into the conference room opened and the Romulans returned. Once that had been seated Timothy continued. "Governor Taliren, you've given us much to consider. As of this moment I cannot give you an answer. That must wait until we have at least some verification of your claims."

"Understandable Captain."

"Commander Kim will take your information and we will consider it," Timothy said and Harry raised his hand. "Please transmit it to him immediately."

"Of course, though once again I feel I must urge some speed in your deliberations Captain, time is not on our side."

"I understand, my aide has arranged temporary quarters for you and will show you the way."

Taliren nodded his ascent and both he and Cossick rose and followed Kaitlyn from the room.

"Harry, get that information immediately and lets get to work people." A chorus of "Aye sir,"s responded and they all quickly headed out for their assigned tasks. As his officers filed out Bella made a bee line right to him. "Yes Ms. Mavil?"

"I'd like to interview the Governor and his aides immediately."

Timothy's first impulse was flat denial. T'prin had been right though. What happened out here could very well affect the entire Federation, best not to have the record of it full of self censoring. "Contact my aide, and set up and appointment with them and me through her."

"And you?" She asked.

"Yes, I want to be present if you're going to be doing more than simply recording what happens."

Bella jammed a finger towards Timothy. "That's censorship!"

Timothy frowned but didn't move as her finger stopped a few millimeters from his nose. "No, it's being prudent while in the middle of a very delicate, very important situation. Besides, you assume I'm going to censor you, did it occur to you that I would want to hear your questions and their answers?"

"You could read the transcript," Bella snapped.

"And we both know that's at best half the story. Look, if that's not acceptable then we can work out another arrangement."

"Such as?" Bella asked skeptically with her arms crossed under, not over her breasts. That bit didn't escape Timothy's notice.

"You can be confined to your quarters for the duration of this cruise," he said flatly.

Timothy had never seen someone turn beet red so quickly. "I was assured I would have access to this ship, her crew, and this entire situation!" She spat.

"Yes, I am allowing you to sit in on multiple, delicate meetings. To observe first hand every detail of what could be a turning point in Romulan/Federation relations," Timothy said, his voice steadily rising. "The defection of not just one Romulan officer but three Romulan worlds. I'm even willing to let you interview the leaders of those three worlds and all I'm asking is to sit in on the proceedings, so get some perspective!"

Bella's jaw clenched up and for a moment Timothy thought the woman would explode at him but just as quickly she mellowed, her serene and inviting reporter face returning. "You are correct captain, and I thank you for the opportunity. I would like to schedule the meeting as soon as possible."

"Fine then," Timothy said. "Tell Kaitlyn I said to set it up for just after lunch tomorrow."

"I will, thank you captain," she said with a graciousness they both knew was fake but common courtesy required Timothy to accept at face value.

"Is there anything else?"

"No," Bella said.

Timothy nodded, turning away from to consider the PADD he'd left on the table. She got the hint and left. With the last of the crew and passengers gone Timothy turned back to admire the view of the stars over the massive nacelles of his ship. He couldn't shake the feeling that he'd just had a problem way over his pay grade dumped in his lap.

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"I suppose it was too much to hope for that the Captain would make a decision at the initial meeting," Taliren said as he paced back and forth in his newly assigned cabin.

"Given the magnitude of our proposal I would find a lack of caution on their part disturbing," Cossick said. The rooms they'd been assigned were well furnished if a bit bland. A small sitting area with the table he was sitting at, a bed and dresser adjacent and their own small restroom. The view out the windows was impressive though.

"Still, he didn't seem the least bit excited about it. Nothing, it was like talking to a statue. Like talking to you."

Cossick let himself have a slight smile. "Well then, you must think quite highly of our host." Taliren snorted. "Come, sit down. I imagine they'll be at this for several hours at the very least." He poured another cup of tea from the pot he'd had replicated and slid it across the small table. "Have some tea, it's tasty if uninspired." Taliren sat down and accepted the cup, sipping from it experimentally. "And I'd remind you that we're most likely being watched."

"These Humans? Unlikely," he snorted.

"From what I've seen these defense force types aren't quite as trusting as the ones we're used to dealing with. Did you notice the well armed soldiers over watching us in the shuttle bay? Of the ones that have been escorting us around?"

"Our bad luck then."

Cossick inclined his head. "Not necessarily."

"Oh," Taliren exclaimed, setting down his cup. "How so?"

"While it would be preferable for our proposal to be accepted on its own merits there are angles here that a military man might consider advantageous that other's might not."

"Such as?" Taliren asked skeptically.

Cossick refilled his own cup. "Have you considered what our secession will do to the Empire?"

"Yes, they'll lose three rather unimportant worlds."

"Beyond that," Cossick said. He poured out a small cup full of sweetener cubes and began to stack them. "The Empire is at a delicate moment, a loosely held together coalition of worlds. The Senate needs to cement them back together into a cohesive whole. If one group were to up and leave," he flicked one of the bottom most cubes out of the stack and brought the rest of them tumbling down. "It could prove to be disastrous."

"And you think that will appeal to this Captain Hayes?"

"The destruction of one of their major enemies without even firing a shot? What soldier wouldn't want that? Especially when it costs them so little to try. They could even wind up with dozens more worlds joining them instead of the warlords and admirals."

"I'm not comfortable with this line of thought Cossick," Taliren said. "Such a thing would cost the lives of millions of Romulans."

Cossick shrugged and took a sip of his tea. "Did you think our actions would be entirely without consequence to the rest of the Empire?"

"I think I would have rather have met a member of their explorer branch," Taliren said.

"Yet here we are," Cossick said with a smirk and another sip of tea. "Did you transfer the information they wanted?"

"Yes, are you sure it's all there?"

"Everything they need to know," Cossick assured him. "Nothing they don't."

"I hope Sesk is convincing."

"Sesk knows his role and the stakes. Besides, he has science and hard data on his side. Unless that lumbering monstrosity of a lieutenant is an idiot Sesk will do fine."

"The tea isn't bad," Taliren said.

"I've had better."

========================================================= ===

Sesk looked at the sensor data the Federations had provided him and felt a spike of envy. The sensors they had on a warship surpassed even the planetary arrays he'd had to work with. He also felt a bit more secure in his predictions.

"From these readings the average distortion amplitude was within four percent of what I had predicted, and the maximum affected radius is within seven percent."

"Impressive... predictions...," Fealst'rak replied. The lab they were in had been configured for this type of work and most of the center was occupied with a large holo projector displaying both the Federation and Romulan data along with Sesk's models.

Sesk nodded. The way the lieutenant spoke was annoying, but given that they could translate what he said at all he was willing to put up with it. The huge creature seemed to know his subspace field theory well enough. He'd had to do very little in the way of explanation.

"I need to feed these readings into my models, see how it affects them."

"The Captain... is most interested in the duration... of the anomaly... We... should investigate... that facet... first."

"I agree," Sesk said as he called up his model. He quickly began to enter the new data on the anomaly while the lieutenant began to consult the sensor logs of the probe they had stationed in the star system. The few members of Fealst'rak's team on board were spread out around them using different consoles and displays to review the data Sesk had given them. Two years of data that had to be analyzed in hours. He was still amazed that none of this lab had existed until Fealst'rak and his team had entered it with Sesk an hour ago.

"The sensor... logs terminate... early."

"An unfortunate necessity," Sesk replied.

"Necessity?" Fealst'rak asked, his mouth tentacles writhing.

"A side effect of living in the Empire. There was no way to be sure someone on my team wasn't working for the Tal'shiar. I destroyed the probe before it could being to report on just how quickly and severely the distortion was growing. The models most of my team saw predicted an effect confined to a star system and a few tenths of a cochrane. You're the first living soul to actually see my unadulterated models."

Fealst'rak rolled his shoulders. "Compartmentalization... of scientific... endeavor... and data... is not conducive to progress."

"No," Sesk said. "It's not." He entered the last of the data and watched at the simulation began to run. His envy ratcheted up a notch as what would have taken his computers at the lab minutes took this ship's computers seconds. Both scientists closely observed the model's behavior as they advanced the time frame. "fifty nine hours on the low end, seventy eight on the high."

"Significant... deviance... from the norm...," Fealst'rak replied.

"Fifty nine hours. That's barely enough time to make it to Jaisalmer even if we left right now," Sesk said.

Fealst'rak raised one clawed hand and poked at the fifty nine hour prediction hovering in the air before them. "Confidence... level is low... Only nine percent." He scrolled through the results. "Sixty eight seems... most likely."

"Still cutting it close," Sesk said. "To bad we cannot make this distortion do as we pleased."

"First... we... must understand... it...," Fealst'rak replied. "And if we... could control... it... I... doubt we... would need to worry... about the time table."

"True," Sesk said and he got back to work refining the model. It was the only thing he could do in order to not think about his family. He had been present when Cossick's men had taken charge of them and whisked them out of the capital to a secure villa to ride out the uprising with many of the other conspirator's families but he couldn't help but worry about them.

============================================================

"I have been unable to locate any evidence of tampering so far in the data that has been presented to us."

Timothy sigh as he scanned over the PADD Seven had given him.

"Sir?" she asked.

"It actually might have been easier if you had found some lieutenant commander. Some clear cut evidence that they're lying would make my job easier. Instead it looks like we have done the impossible and found three honest Romulans."

"I will continue to investigate sir, however I have scanned over the most critical pieces and have found no evidence so far."

"Keep at it. Do you have enough help?"

"Aye sir, I've assigned beta shift to maintain normal sensor scans while using alpha to analyze the data."

"Alright, dismissed."

Seven collected her PADD and left quickly. The door hung open for a moment and Johan entered. He sat down across from Timothy and slid him a PADD. "Ever seen the pictures of her right after the de-Borgified her? Wow. What dumbass decided to put her in a regular uniform?" Seeing Timothy ignore his usual antics Johan got down to business. "Our resident super-predator is still going over all the data that Romulan scientist brought over."

"What's the verdict?" Timothy asked.

"Sixty eight hours till things start to clear up. Could be as little as fifty nine or as many as seventy eight though. His stuff look legit."

"What's their capital again?"

"Apparently Jaisalmer," Johan replied. "And before you ask it'll take us fifty five hours to get their right now."

"Oh well, so long as we've got some time to kill. If we want to get there before the Empire finds out that gives us a whole four hours to get this sorted out."

"Fealst'rak was pretty confident about the sixty eight number, said plus six or minus four is most likely."

"Still not enough time," Timothy said. "We can't get a message torp out and back in time, we can't run to the edge of this anomaly in time, there's just not enough damn time to contact Starfleet and still get to these worlds in time."

"Yeah, looks like this one is firmly in our lap," Johan said.

"This is way over our pay grade."

"Yeah, no shit."

Timothy sighed. "Find out anything interesting about them?"

"Starfleet intel doesn't have anything on Taliren or Cossick, not a blessed word. Sesk is apparently one of their hot shot subspace physicists though so he checks out. Their little rebellion did occur right after Shinzon got himself killed. It went over like a lead balloon. They apparently had popular support but without a military of their own it didn't last. They got lucky though, the admiral assigned to return them to the fold had bigger fish to fry. He just rounded up anyone who looked suspicious, shot them, then left a couple regiments of ground troops to hold the capitals and a few banged up destroyers in orbit with orders to start glassing cities if the people got uppity again. They left a few months later after everything calmed down."

"Charming," Timothy said. "Is Terzi having any luck?"

"Last I heard she's not. Apparently the Romulan's data says what we've thought. This thing is random, she can't compensate for it. Harry has most of Ops up and pouring over this but so far he's not finding anything either. So far these guys look legit."

"Honest Romulans, what's the galaxy coming to?" Timothy glanced at the old wooden clock he had hanging on the wall. "It's nineteen thirty hours now," he said. "Get a hold of everyone and tell them I want their findings ready to go at twenty three hundred. I'd like to take longer but it doesn't look like that's going to happen.

"Aye sir," Johan said. "Call me if you need me, sir."

Timothy nodded as Johan left.

============================================================

Timothy plucked his rook up and slid it half way across the board, knocking over a pawn.

"Hey!" Kaitlyn complained. "I need him!"

"No you didn't," Timothy said.

"Jerk," Kaitlyn mumbled before picking up one of her knights and roundly thumping over his queen. "Check."

"What the... where the hell did that come from!?"

Timothy took the knight with one of his pawns but left a hole in his defenses in doing so.

"Queen's bishop to D five," T'prin said from her seat beside their table.

"Hey! No kibitzing!"

Kaitlyn giggled and quickly moved her bishop. "Check!"

"Damn it," Timothy muttered.

"Why not three dimensional chess captain?" T'prin asked. "The added dimension adds a new layer of strategy and quintuples the possible moves."

"Because I'm a purist at heart." He looked up to see Kaitlyn quietly laughing. "Alright, I'm a grumpy old man, happy?"

Timothy moved his king. His PADD beeped and he checked it. Seven's analysis was complete, everything appeared to be unaltered and accurate. "I don't suppose you've got an official position on all this Senator."

T'prin slowly shook her head. "I am just one Senator of the Federation, one of many, and one on leave. I do not have the authority to speak for the council in this matter."

Kaitlyn scanned the board then pushed her rook to the side pinning Timothy's king in place.

As he considered his rapidly diminishing options T'prin spoke up again. "In this situation I must defer to your judgment as the senior officer on scene. You do have the authority to speak for the Federation in a situation such as this."

Timothy sighed, advancing one of his pawns to try and block Kaitlyn from moving her rook again. "Guess it goes with the job."

T'prin inclined her head but didn't speak.

"Knock knock!" They heard Johan call from down below.

Timothy pushed his wicker seat back, grumbling as the legs hooked up on the rough floorboards. He walked to the side of the rough hewn tree house and looked down at the ground ten meters below. "I wouldn't do that." He saw Johan and Bella both standing there.

From the ground Johan looked up the massive tree to where Timothy was leaning over the bamboo and thatch railing. "Why?"

Timothy pointed in the distance, to where a massive two legged monster had turned to look their way. "My baby's hungry today."

"Oh shit!" Johan grabbed Bella's hand and both of them quickly started to run up the stairs that spiraled around the tree up to the house. When they got to the top they found Timothy already returned to his game. "You knew we were coming and you didn't feed her."

"Her?" Bella asked as she gasped for breath after the rapid four story climb.

"His pet T-Rex."

Bella looked confused. "T-Rex?"

"Late Cretaceous predator, about the size of a runabout. Can eat you in one gulp."

"It happened one time and the safety protocols were on. Get over it already, and her name is Sue," Timothy remarked off handedly. "Oh come on!" he yelped as Bella moved her bishop.

"Check," she said merrily.

"Obviously you taught her how to play chess," Timothy growled.

"How's that?" Johan asked.

"She cheats."

"Do not!" Kaitlyn protested.

Timothy sighed as he moved his king back a square, it was the only move he had left.

"Check," Kaitlyn drew out as she moved her rook. "Mate!" She pronounced proudly as she set it down, trapping his king.

Timothy tipped over his king in resignation. "Like I said, cheats."

"Not to break up this rather surreal moment but what's going on," Bella asked.

Timothy got up and walked to the railing of the house to look out at the jungle and plains that surrounded it. For just relaxing he liked this simulation a lot. Johan had once called it the Swiss family Robinson does the Jurassic. Not quite right on the time period but the spirit was right. "I needed to clear my head and think. We've had a lot dumped on us in the last twelve hours. I needed to calm my thoughts and look at this logically. I asked the Senator, and Commander Luhrner here in order to discuss this with them, and you here to observe."

In the jungle below Sue roared. Timothy shook his head. "Computer, add a wounded Maiasaur to the plains environment two kilometers north of here." The computer beeped it's ascent and in the distance the plaintive cries of another dinosaur echo'd out. The whole tree house shook as the giant carnivore stalked away.

"Anyways," Timothy said. "The Senator has informed me that she can offer no official advice on this subject and that the decision rests solely with me. However I want to hear what you're thinking."

Johan stood still, breathing deeply as he collected his thoughts. "Honestly?"

"Always," Timothy replied.

"Let them swing. They tied themselves this noose now they want us to bail them out after they stuck their heads in it. It sounds to me like they just want us to cover their asses and they don't intend to stay with the Federation."

Timothy rubbed his chin. "What if they're telling the truth though? What if they actually mean every thing they've said?"

"So what?" Johan said. "Even if they're telling the truth what's going to happen? Do you really think the Romulans will just let this pass? We take them in, we start a war, it's that simple."

"Even then can we turn our backs on them? Just let twelve billion people who took a swing at freedom get swallowed up?"

Johan shook his head emphatically. "How many trillions of citizens are there in the Federation? Hundreds of billions in the Romulan Empire? Twelve billion people is a lot, so is three trillion. Do we put trillions in jeopardy to save twelve billion? We just got out of a war Timothy, how many billions died in it? Do we plunge headlong back into that insanity over three planets?"

To their side T'prin nodded. "There is logic in his words captain. In a war between the Empire and the Federation many millions, even billions, could die. The needs of the many do outweigh the needs of the few."

"Tim, I know we're the ship on the scene and you're the Captain. You have the authority to do it but do you want to be the man who starts the second Federation/Romulan war?" Johan asked. "I mean, we were talking about peace with these people four years ago!"

"If we turn our backs on them then what good are we? What's the point of the Federation if we only help those in trouble when it's convenient? Yes we'll be happy to help, just so long as we're not a little put out. If we tell people who are trying to throw off oppression and make a bid for freedom, 'Sorry, its just not a good time for us,' then this Federation needs to die because it's heart is already gone!"

"This won't end here Tim, we'll be writing a blank check to every world that gets sick of its dictators and decides they want to be rid of them."

"So? Why shouldn't we be helping them? Freedom's a bitch, she demands sacrifice and struggle. Like it or not we're the free ones in this part of the galaxy, anyone around us who wants to be free is going to look to us. Should we just spit in their faces because it might be tough? Look at what we had to do to get here, we fought wars with the Xindi, Klingons, Romulans, Dominion, Breen, Cardassians, Tholians, and a hundred other border wars. It's not like its been smooth sailing, its not like it was just given to us. What would have happened if the Vulcan's had left us to our own devices? When we ran into the Romulans the first time we'd have been screwed. They would have steamrolled our asses and we wouldn't be having this conversation. The whole history of this Federation is about helping people, often with no tangible reward, often with struggle, and all for the promise that freedom is worth fighting for and we're stronger together than apart. We tell these people they're on their own and we're pissing on every ship, every crew, every man and woman who's ever died defending this Federation and what it stands for."

Johan waited but Timothy's tirade had run out and left his captain breathing hard. "If they're legit," he said gently.

"Yeah, if they're legit," Timothy admitted pushing away from the railing to pace slowly in the middle of the room.

"And sometimes the needs of the few outweigh the needs of the many," T'prin added.

"We're going to start a war," Johan said calmly. "I just want to be clear on that, this WILL start a war."

Timothy stopped and looked at his first officer and friend. "Yeah, it's gonna start a war."

T'prin rose from her own wicker seat and walked towards them, her long robe and measured gait making it look like the Vulcan woman was gliding. "While it may start a war, the possibility exists that it will be limited."

"How's that," Johan asked.

Behind them Bella was furiously scribbling notes. Her normally head mounted camera was floating in the air above her, its own repulsors letting it track the action even as she wrote.

"While the delegates may be honest in their request, we cannot deny the possibility that the Romulans may still see this as an opportunity rather than a problem."

"How so?" Timothy prodded. At times T'prin's slow methodical explanations drove him mad. He preferred direct and to the point. T'prin preferred to build her case analytically leaving nothing out and to the imagination.

"Commander Luhrner, you yourself spoke of the possibility that the Romulans are looking for a short, limited war in order to solidify the Empire."

"Yes," he said. "That's why we're out here, to prevent it."

"Be that as it may," she said. "The Empire might see this as our providing them with the perfect opportunity to have a limited war."

"And they'd be able to twist things to make it appear that we'd stirred up trouble on these worlds then used that as a pretext to invade the Empire!" Kaitlyn said as she hopped out of her chair and bounced towards them. "A lack of solidarity with the Senate on Romulus led to these worlds being lost and the deaths of thousands of good Romulan men and women during an already stressed time in the Empire! I mean... umm...," she said sheepishly as the captain, commander, and senator all looked right at her. "Sir."

"Your holographic aide is correct," T'prin said.

Bella's head snapped up at that to look right at Kaitlyn.

"You could have a career in propaganda," Johan said to Kaitlyn.

"We could be playing into the Empire's hands even," T'prin said.

"You think these guys are plants?" Timothy asked.

T'prin inclined her head slowly. "Perhaps not knowingly. However these planets have rebelled before, and they are of minimal use to the Empire as anything but breeding grounds for more troops. It's possible that Romulus knew about their plot and allowed it to continue, even encouraged it, hoping that they would do something like this."

"So the Romulans could still be getting what they want, rid of three seditious useless worlds and we start their war for them. Wonderful."

Timothy shook his head. "Immaterial. We don't know what Romulus has planned, what they did plan, what they might have planned. We can run ourselves ragged on that sort of thing and get no where. With no facts one way or another on that sort of thing we have to go with what we've got. Since so far Taliren and his buddies seem to be telling the truth we're going to work from that assumption."

"We're going to Jaisalmer," Johan said.

"That obvious?" Timothy asked.

"I knew it the moment they started talking boss. You bleed blue. Just had to play devil's advocate for you."

"Anything to add Senator?" Timothy asked.

"I believe traveling to their new capital to try an ascertain the truthfulness of their claims is an appropriate and logical course of action."

"Well, so long as we're being logical about it," Timothy said with a smile. "Kaitlyn, contact Governor Taliren and let him know we'll meet him at twenty three thirty hours. That'll give the staff half an hour to go over their findings before we render judgment."

"Aye sir," Kaitlyn said as her PADD materialized in her hands.

"Ms. Mavil," Timothy said as he looked at her. "I trust we can count on you to not breath a word of this until after the staff meeting."

Bella nodded silently, still trying to process everything that she had heard.

"Alright then, Johan we're going to have to redeploy the task force and call in every Explorer Corps ship in the quadrant. Senator, Ms. Mavil, if you'll excuse us, we'll meet with you in the conference room at twenty three hundred."

In the distance the wounded animal bellowed. They could just make out the dust cloud kicked up as two multi-ton animals fought for survival. Seconds later a strangled cry from the prey was cut off by a bellowing roar as Sue won her meal. "Good girl," Timothy said with a smile. "Computer, save and end program."

As they left the small holosuite Bella walked close to the Senator. "You knew she was a hologram?"

"You did not?"

============================================================

Timothy waited patiently as his officers began to file in to the conference room. He glanced at the chronometer on his PADD, it was still a few minutes before the scheduled time. He had to stifle a small yawn, it had been a long day and he was eager to be done with it. He was pleased when Lieutenant Fealst'rak lumbered in and took his seat a full two minutes before the scheduled time. "Well, since we're all here lets get going. Commander Seven?"

"I have reviewed the data supplied to us by the Romulans. We examined all records for evidence of tampering or alteration. We found none. As best we can determine all records we have received are authentic," Seven said.

"Any irregularities," Johan asked.

Seven shook her head. "No sir, all the records were in perfect order."

"Commander Kim?"

"We've worked through the mountain of data that was sent to us. Voting records from both the previous rebellion and this one. They aren't complete but they show extensive support for the rebellion."

"They're incomplete?" Timothy asked.

"Yes sir, the most recent voting records only encompass Jaisalmer. I requested clarification from the Governor and he said that they didn't have time to collect the tabulations from Yecheny or Sarab. Based off the date stamps of the records and recent events I'm inclined to believe them."

"Anything else?" Johan asked.

"Yes sir, we've also received extensive visual records of demonstrations of support for the rebellion as well as minutes of meetings of the rebellion's leadership."

Timothy raised an eyebrow, "They kept minutes?"

"Apparently sir. If the records are to be believed they kept them as proof of their intentions for us."

"Seems risky," Johan said.

"The minutes don't specifically name any specific conspirators but from the records we can confirm that both Governor Taliren and Cossick were both present. In fact based off the records Cossick has a rather prominent role as their director of intelligence."

"Tal'shiar," Johan hissed.

"It would explain how they managed to keep this quiet. If someone in the Tal'shiar was actively interfering with their investigations it might have passed unnoticed," T'prin said.

"She is correct," Seven replied.

"I don't suppose we have any information on who the resident Tal'shiar director is of any of these planets?" Timothy asked.

Johan shook his head. "Nothing."

"Make note of it as something to keep an eye on. It could provide us with some insight into this."

"Aye sir," both Johan and Harry said.

"Terzi, any luck," Timothy asked.

The little Elaysian shrugged. "The data Sesk brought back confirmed what we thought, this thing is random. We've run dozens of analyses of the background fluctuations and there's no discernable pattern. We've got the computer still running it but I don't have a lot of hope to find anything."

"So no joy on the comms or engines?" Timothy clarified.

"None sir, no long range comms or high warp for us. Message torps and warp seven is the best we can do until this thing is over."

"Speaking of which, Lieutenant?"

Fealst'rak's long climbing claws shifted around. "I... have analyzed... the data... with Sesk... and confirmed... his analysis. This anomaly... is a natural phenomenon... and will dissipate in approximately... sixty four hours..."

"Do they know anything we don't?" Johan asked.

"A significant... amount Commander... His... theories... on the anomaly's... formation... and causation... are very intriguing... Particularly in the area... of the anomaly's... relation to the triple star system in which it... formed."

"Anything useful?" Johan prodded.

Fealst'rak shifted, coming partially out of his crouching posture before sinking back down again. His science's blue carapace darkened slightly giving he impression of being agitated. "I... do not understand... Commander... such information... is always... pertinent."

"Thank you Lieutenant," Timothy interjected. "Continue working with Sesk to see what you can learn."

"Yes Captain..." Fealst'rak said.

Timothy let out a deep breath and got started. "Given that all of the information we have points to Governor Taliren speaking the truth we have to give his request the appropriate consideration. Given the evidence we have that their succession from the Romulan Empire is legitimate and enjoys popular support of the people of these planets their request for status as a Federation protectorate is valid. After careful consideration and due to our isolation from Starfleet it is my decision that we will provisionally accept their petition."

In an instant the tension in the room was released in a collective rush, but just as quickly new tension and anxiousness took over.

Timothy ignored the nervous chatter and pressed on. "As you are all obviously aware the Romulans will not take kindly to this. While we will do everything within our power to resolve this situation peacefully we cannot ignore the possibility, the likelihood that we will come into direct armed confrontation with Romulan forces."

"We're gonna start a war," Harry groaned.

"Maybe," Johan said.

"Not if we can help it," Timothy interjected.

"Captain, do we have the authority?" Cesina asked.

"To paraphrase general order thirty three section eight, in absence of direct contact with Starfleet command the captain on scene has authority to speak for the Federation," Timothy replied. He'd double checked that regulation three times. "We don't have the time to exit the anomaly and make contact with Starfleet Command and still arrive at Jaisalmer, Yecheng, and Sarab in time to fulfill our commitments to them as a Federation protectorate. We have to assume that the Empire has taken note of this anomaly and will react to it the way we have. If this anomaly does dissipate in the time the lieutenant is indicating we won't be able to make it even back to the Neutral Zone before that happens. That would leave whatever forces the Romulans have dispatched between us and the triumvirate worlds and give them a head start to them."

Terzi piped up, "Sir, shouldn't we notify the Romulans of this first?"

"While I would prefer to do things that way the comm blackout makes it impossible to contact Romulus right now. Additionally we'd be remiss in our duties towards a Federation protectorate to wait until Romulus has been notified before we move. If we do the triumvirate could come under attack long before we arrive."

"A tactically unsound course of action," Deekan said.

"Correct," Timothy agreed. "I'd like to pretend there's not some self serving rationalization going on here there is. I won't start this with one hand tied behind our back by sitting on this side of Neutral Zone while we warn the Empire. The situation is complicated and I'm making a judgment call."

"What about the rest of the Task Force and the fleet?" Cesina asked as her antennae leaned forward.

Timothy picked up his PADD to make sure he got the names right. "We're redeploying along the Neutral Zone. The Templar, Cavalier, Pike, Dragoon, Grenadier, Relentless, and Resolute will make best speed for Jaisalmer with us," he said rattling off the names of two destroyers, a frigate, and four corvettes. "The Narendra, Paladin, Garret, Archer, Fusilier, Indomitable, and Courageous will head for Yecheng. The Khitomer, Knight, Kirk, Reed, Jannisary, Triarii, Adamant, and Implacable will head for Sarab. The Wolf, Cleric, Hoplite, Bowman, Audacious and Inexorable, will head for Kimbesh. The Cataphract, Sulu, Hussar, Musketeer, and Legionaire will back up DS3." He paused. "That leaves the border thin rimward but the closest worlds to the border in that direction are Al Bawiji and Qina, neither of which is much of a target having only mid sized colonies. Never the less we've asked for what of the Explorer Corps they can spare to make best speed here. When they arrive they'll take over the line rimward. We're calling in every ship task force 2 has space worthy and they'll form a ready reserve where we need it. By the time they show up the anomaly should have cleared and they'll be able to transit quickly. Questions?" No one said anything. "Alright then, bring the Governor in."

A moment later the conference room doors slid open and the Governor came in. Timothy rose from his seat and his staff followed his lead. Bella Mavil scurried around to get a clear view of Timothy and Taliren. Cossik and Sesk both took up position behind Taliren.

"Good news I trust captain," Taliren said as he smoothly took Timothy's offered hand.

"Good enough," Timothy said with a smile before his face grew serious. "Governor Taliren, on behalf of the United Federation of Planets I provisionally accept the request for protectorate status for the worlds of Jaisalmer, Sarab, and Yecheng. As of twenty four hundred hours this evening your worlds will officially fall under our protection. We will make best speed for Jaisalmer. Provided that your claims prove true the provisional designation shall be removed."

Taliren's smile had grown broader with every word. He enthusiastically pumped Timothy's hand up and down. "You will find we have dealt with you honestly captain. On behalf of my people I thank you."

Timothy nodded and pulled his hand free of the Governor's grasp. "I'm sure we will. Now, if you'll excuse me we're all about to become quite busy." With firm slap on Taliren's shoulder Timothy headed for the bridge, nodding to Cossick and Sesk as he passed.

The doors onto the bridge opened and Timothy stepped down to his chair, sliding into it. The leather and padding were still new, it would be a while before it molded itself to him properly. The rest of Alpha shift took their stations around the bridge having served two full shifts by now. Senator T'prin took Cesina's normal seat beside him and he caught Ms. Mavil moving into position behind them. He suspected that T'prin was just here for the inevitable photo op. The Romulans had stayed behind in the conference room. They might be a Federation protectorate now but he'd be damned if they got onto his bridge.

"Lieutenant Boritsolav, launch all message torpedos," he said "Ms. Tuul, lay in a course for Jaisalmer, best possible speed."

"Torpedoes away Captain," Yumiko said.

"Aye sir, course laid in," Milana replied.

Timothy rose to his fee. He tugged his uniform into position and took a deep breath.

"Engage."

======================================= =====================

Dramatis Personae

Crew, U.S.S. Typhoon NCC-79853

Timothy Hayes, Fleet Captain, Commander 1st Task Force of the 17th Fleet, Male Human
Commanded the U.S.S. Atlas during the Dominion War, transferred into the Federation Defense Force immediately after its establishment, given command of the Typhoon and the 1st TF soon after.

Johan Luhrner, Commander, Male Human
1st Officer of the Atlas during the Dominion War, 1st officer of the Typhoon

Cesina Bul’ra, Lt. Commander, Female Andorian
Lieutenant aboard the U.S.S Galaxy, 2nd Officer of the Typhoon

Terzi Del, Commander, Female Elaysian
Chief Engineer of the Atlas during the Dominion War, Chief Engineer of the Typhoon

Deekan Braal, Commander, Male Capellan
Security Officer then Tactical Officer of the Atlas during the Dominion War, Chief Tactical Officer of the Typhoon

Peili, Lt. Commander, Female Orion
Lieutenant in charge of the defense of a border station during the Dominion War, Chief Security Officer of the Typhoon

Harry Kim, Commander, Male Human
Operations Officer of the U.S.S. Voyager, Operations Officer of the Typhoon

EMH (Joe), Commander, Hologram
Chief Medical Officer of the Voyager, Chief Medical Officer of the Typhoon

7 of 9, Lt. Commander, Human/Borg Female
Served on U.S.S. Voyager, Chief Sensors Officer of the Typhoon

Riway daughter of Jaheel, Lt. Commander, Female Si’rak
Ensign on the Atlas, 1st Operations Officer of the Typhoon

Binni Ulin, Lt. Commander, Female Human
Lieutenant on the U.S.S. Lelander, Defense Officer of the Typhoon

Villec Bisaan, Lieutenant, Male Nileen
Starfleet Academy Cadet, Helmsman of the Typhoon

Milana Tuul, Lieutenant, Cardassian Female
Starfleet Academy Cadet, Navigator of the Typhoon

Saral, Lt. Commander, Female Vulcan
Asst. Chief Engineer of the Typhoon

Fealst’rak, Lieutenant, Rurutic Male
Headed a research project using a space telescope to study the galactic core, Chief Science Officer of the Typhoon

Marcos Hernandez, Lieutenant, Male Human
Combat shuttle pilot during the Dominion war, Alpha Squadron leader of the Typhoon

Rilo Gulia, Lieutenant, Male un-Joined Trill
Combat shuttle pilot during the Dominion war, Beta Squadron leader of the Typhoon

Tycho Danor, Lt. Commander, Yvethan Male
Airgroup leader of Akira class U.S.S. Jonestown during the Dominion War, Airgroup commander of the Typhoon

Yumiko Boritsolav, Lieutenant, Female Human/Gor'sic
Graduated from Starfleet academy, familiarization deployment on the U.S.S. Carthage, communications officer of the Typhoon

Others

T’prin, Senator, Vulcan Female
Federation senator and chief opponent of the FDF

Solin, Aide, Vulcan Male
Senator T’prin’s personal assistant

Bella Mavil, Reporter, Human Female
United News reporter on assignment aboard the Typhoon

Romulans

Taliren, Governor, Romulan Male
Governor of the Triumvarite of Jaisalmer, Sarab, and Yecheng

Cossick, Romulan Male
Chief of Intelligence for the Triumvarite

Sesk, Romulan Male
Head scientist researching the anomaly for the Triumvarite

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A uthor’s Notes

1) Do Romulan's have last names? Do Vulcans? All we ever hear from either group is the old single name bit. Is that the way it really is?
2) Meetings, meetings, discussions, conferences talking talking TALKING! Wow, it's just like a normal day at work.
3) Visit the DITL.org forum, I've got a thread with a lot of suplimentary material for the story at: http://ditl.org/forum/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=3674