Holography 3

As A Reminder and a Promise

by

Pat Foley

Chapter 56

Stardate 2229.12 Terra

Sarek looked out the window at the frigid Terran landscape. Outside sleet was beginning to change to the first snow of the season. Sarek watched the white crystals fall from the laden gray skies, thinking how truly alien this world was from his own hot, dry planet. Given that, what he was about to do was even more outrageous. But he had already decided.

The Federation Secretary of Union, Dr. Henry Fitzgerald, entered the room. "Ambassador Sarek. I'm sorry to keep you waiting."

Sarek turned to the Federation representative. "It is of no consequence. I had much to occupy my thoughts. And I had no appointment."

He gestured him to a seat. "How may I be of service to you, Ambassador?"

"Perhaps you can tell me that. You may be aware, that I have a Terran ethologist doing a study at the embassy."

"Dr. Grayson." Fitzgerald started to sit behind his desk, then reconsidered, and took a chair opposite the Vulcan. He didn't wish to take any action that might seem authoritative or impolitic to the Vulcan representative. "Yes, of course. I trust her work has beneficial to you."

"Quite. However, I have come to be aware that she may have other commitments that may soon claim her attention. Or may seek to claim her attention. And yet, our business is not concluded."

"I see."

Sarek raised an eyebrow.

Fitzgerald blanched. "You wish her to remain at the embassy."

"I wish her not to be importuned away from it," Sarek clarified.

"Her work must be very important to you."

Sarek refused to be drawn. "All that is necessary for you to know is what I have told you. All that is necessary for me is to know if you can be of assistance in this regard."

For a moment Fitzgerald considered the impassive Vulcan. "Forgive me, Ambassador, but this is a bit …unprecedented. Are you saying that this is a requirement for continuing the negations?"

"Let me say I would consider it, as is said in your language, a gesture of good faith. And would look unfavorably if such measures as might be appropriate were not taken."

Fitzgerald nodded slowly. "I see. Obviously if she is useful in continuing the negotiations, then some measures can be taken to release her from other current commitments."

"And future ones." Sarek temporized.

Fitzgerald met his eyes and swallowed at the implacable look in them. "And future ones."

Sarek rose. "Then take them, Fitzgerald."

"Of course, Ambassador. Naturally we will do anything feasible to assist you in developing this treaty."

"I am pleased you have been so cooperative, Mr. Secretary. And with that, I will take my leave."

Fitzgerald was so stunned, he almost automatically offered a hand in what would have been a most impolite gesture to a Vulcan, catching himself at the last minute, offering only a sedate nod of acknowledgement. When Sarek had left, he sat down behind his desk, totally stunned. "My god," he said. "The press is right."

"Sir?" The assistant stood in his doorway. Fitzgerald realized he had pressed the button to summon him, but had been too stunned to even realize it.

Fitzgerald drew a steadying breath. "We have a situation here. Get me the Attorney General."

To be continued…