Chapter 19 In between
Picard sat in his chair; on the viewscreen was one of the Attrexian Command officials Munro had rescued on the station.
"We'll beam the prisoners to your ship." He said
"That won't be necessary. Just release them." she replied
"I beg your pardon?"
"The killing was not their fault. Those three scientists merely stumbled on advanced technology left by an extinct and long forgotten race."
"Forgive my skepticism but what makes you so sure the Idryll do not build those ruins?"
"Legends of Idryll glory are fairy tales. We have extensive records of our first contact with the Idryll and they were a simple people."
"Then you won't mind us investigating their claims in the facility."
"We're going to destroy the facility before anyone else gets hurt."
"Commander that is a priceless archeological site, not to mention a breakthrough technology, I strongly recommend-"
"It is our planet and our business. We appreciate your assistance but you cannot dictate our policy. The facility is dangerous and must be destroyed. Now please release our Idryll prisoners. You cannot detain them without our authorization."
"We can hold them for the attack on the Dallas."
"That would be a mistake. Prosecuting them for being ignorant Idryll would hand the separatist a propaganda victory."
"Did you impound Inagor's artifacts from Viok Theta Three?"
"Inagor and his followers fabricated mock artifacts to look like Idryll creations."
"If they're counterfeiters why are they still free?"
"They're punishment was exile from Viok Theta Three and the destruction of their counterfeit objects."
"If you destroy this facility will you call it counterfeit as well?"
"Captain, we are reading anti-matter explosions on Viok Epsilon Five." Said Tuvok
"You can release the Idryll. Our dead now have justice."
"Destroying history is not justice."
"Goodbye Captain Picard."
"Commander Tuvok, the Idryll are free to go. Escort them to shuttlebay two."
"Aye sir."
A few minutes later Tuvok, Munro, Kleeya, Inagor and Krindo were assembled in the shuttlebay next to the Idryll shuttle.
"Doctors, the Attrexian council has released you." Said Tuvok
"Hmmm what are they up to?" asked Inagor
"Don't be so surprised, they can't stop destiny." Said Krindo
"I'm surprised and worried." Said Kleeya
"You always worry about nothing. You should cultivate the unwavering certainty of our ancestors." Replied Krindo
"They were hardly unwavering." She said
"My research says they were." Argued Krindo
"Then why did it take my research to activate the facility?" Kleeya retorted
"Enough! Thank you for your hospitality." Said Inagor
"Don't thank these barbarians. They destroyed our only proof!" yelled Krindo
"My son, this sector is filled with proof." Replied Inagor
"Yes, the work awaits. Come Kleeya." Said Krindo
"LtCmdr. Tuvok, I petition the Enterprise for permission to stay on board." She said
"But why child?" asked Inagor
"I want to help the Federation study the Exomorph bodies. It's my own small way of accounting for the death we've caused." She replied
"I forbid it!" said Krindo
"You do not control me!" she yelled
Tuvok tapped his combage.
"Captain Picard, Doctor Kleeya has requested permission to stay onboard the Enterprise and assist in the investigation of the Exomorph bodies." He said
"Her skills could be quite useful. She is authorized to stay onboard." Replied Picard
"Do not allow her to stay Picard." Said Krindo
"Dr. Kleeya you will be assisting the research team. Welcome to the Enterprise."
"Thank you Captain." She replied
"Picard out."
"You'll regret this!" yelled Krindo
"Krindo you are cleared to leave. I suggest you do so, immediately." Munro said
Krindo stalked aboard the shuttle followed by his father. A forcefield activated and the shuttlebay doors opened allowing the Idryll shuttle to leave…