Last Call -- Chapter 6: Trust and Obfuscations
Author's Note: A little behind due to some technical difficulties with my computer. I might have taken a bit of creative license with Lt. Matheson's past, but I call them as I see them.
Tilting his head, John Matheson pressed his right ear to his shoulder, a
loud pop resonating; the motion relieved the tension in his neck as the
vertebrae realigned themselves. Sighing, he closed his eyes and rested
his head against the transport tube wall, placing his hands on the rail
behind his waist. He felt the vibrations as the tube rose though the
decks, taking him back towards the bridge and command.
Matheson had gone for a walk down to Medlab to update Doctor Chambers on
the situation and to find out what else she needed to know about the
crew of the Toledo. It could have easily been done by com, but
occasionally the Lieutenant felt the need to catch a few minutes alone.
He was used to the murmur of minds among the officers that manned
command, but the constant control he had to place on his telepathic
abilities created a strain. It was even greater during times of stress
for the crew and with the impending rescue attempt, he wanted to be able
to focus his mind as much as possible.
John often found it relaxing to wander the ship at night while the
skeleton crew worked. After checking in on the shifts he supervised, he
would make his rounds, inspecting the cargo and docking bays before
wandering through the empty decks. Seldom did he run into others on the
bullet cars and in the transport tubes, and he enjoyed the nighttime
telepathic stillness that gave him a chance to lessen the hold he had
placed on his mental shields.
It had taken him a long time to get used to the lack of gloves with his
new uniform. He had been absorbed into the Psi Corps when his so called
talents had surfaced, forced to wear the black leather gloves,
suffocatingly static suit, and the copper-silver badge that seemed
permanently emblazoned on his left chest. What choice did he have if it
was the law? But all he wanted since childhood was to be in Earthforce,
see the stars and to explore. John was an intelligent man who could
have easily earned a commission, but telepaths weren't allowed to
serve. Bias and fear left him with the only choice-- serving the Psi
Corps. Instead of exploring the stars, he was for hire like so many
others at his level, used for his abilities to sense the truth in
thoughts and feelings.
Times changed. With the Telepath Wars, he began to see what the
rebellion had exposed; a conglomeration of despots that wanted power and
control no matter the cost. He had believed that the insurrection was
wrong since the Psi Corps gave telepaths a sense of belonging and a
home, but when he saw evidence that they were killing their own, his
views changed. What made the Corps' actions justified in comparison to
those of the rogues'?
He knew that the base he was stationed at was going to be destroyed, but
he didn't care. John felt betrayed both in trust and in his heart by
how the Corps had lied to him. Only later did the guilt surface,
ashamed that he had let those men and women die, despite their actions.
And the guilt only grew when he was rewarded with what he so desperately
craved-- a chance to enter Earthforce.
Matheson excelled without much effort, graduating with honors from the
Academy to be offered a commission as an officer. Even though the
gloves and psi-dampening suit had come off, he still felt isolated from
'normals' frightened that he would scan them or accidentally pick up on
their thoughts. A constant reminder of his situation was embroidered on
his arm, less conspicuous than the shiny badge he once wore, but present
none the less. The accomplishment was bittersweet even after he had
been assigned his first duty under the command of Captain Matthew Gideon
on the EA explorer, Phoenix.
Gideon had his own reputation as a potential hot head and a gambler, and
above all else, not one to bow to authority. His warm welcome amazed
Matheson, as if the young man was being accepted into a mutual club for
those cast-off and overlooked. The Captain never asked him to bend the
rules or intruded into his personal life, unlike so many others he had
trained with. Gideon told him frankly he didn't care if the Lieutenant
could read every thought in his head, Matheson was trusted until he
proved otherwise. John agreed and not only kept the promise for
himself, but for other telepaths who only wanted something better than
the Psi Corps.
At the same time, Gideon had to live up to the trust Matheson placed in
him. The Lieutenant had been betrayed by those in power before, and
even if this Captain didn't fit the typical Earthforce mold, he was
still human and susceptible to fault. To the day, Gideon hadn't let him
down, his reputation changing in Matheson's eyes to a man who took
carefully calculated risks for what he felt was just for himself and the
crew he commanded, regardless of the political byline.
Stifling a yawn with the back of his hand, Matheson accidentally brushed
against the com positioned at his left ear. The small device gave him
instant access to all departments and to the major communications hubs
around the ship. It was on a different system than the com bracelets
with built in redundancies that would allow him access to the to the
central computer directly without a need for a console. Toggle switches
were mounded to the counter weight arched behind his ear, giving him a
variety of ways to receive and transmit information by voice command.
It was easy to forget he was wearing it, long since used to its
presence.
A slight shutter in the tube made him realize that his ride was to
momentarily pause for someone else to board. Making himself
presentable, Matheson pushed himself off from the wall and opened his
eyes. Lastly he clasped the rail with one hand while the other gently
fisted at his thigh. The doors opened with a quiet hush and revealed
Dureena Nafeel standing patiently in wait. She uncrossed her arms and
nodded at him as she stepped into the tube.
"Lieutenant Matheson."
"Miss Nafeel."
They exchanged greetings as Dureena moved to grasp the rail near him,
her other hand resting at her hip. John continued to stare at the door
hatch, aware that she was studying him, and from his peripheral vision,
he watched as the woman smiled.
"Is that thing permanently attached to your head?" Dureena teased,
watching as Matheson struggled to keep his face straight.
"I had Doctor Chambers glue it in my ear to save time." Glancing down
at her, the Lieutenant finally smiled, bowing his head in slight
embarrassment from the attention. He raised a hand to his face to
smooth his thumb and forefinger across his brow.
"I thought so. I don't think I've ever seen you without that com
link." Dureena spoke like it was a challenge, giving him an evaluating
look-over. He knew she was baiting him, and how far he wanted to play
along was his decision. John could politely refuse or give in, knowing
his unwillingness would only encourage her teasing further. Dureena had
always seen him calm and reserved, and the more comfortable he became
with her, the more likely he was to show her he had more beneath the
surface. Gingerly he reached for his left ear, carefully unhooking the
com to hold in his hand. He turned to face Dureena and smiled widely.
"Are you satisfied? Can I put it back on before I have a break-down?"
Dureena laughed in reply, leaning back against the rail and reached out
with a hand to rest it on his forearm. He began to laugh with her,
slightly shocked that her touch didn't seem to betray any of her
thoughts. Usually unwelcome touch overwhelmed his mind shields,
unprepared for the sudden flow of emotions. Dureena's mind was
different, her reserved nature preventing the projection of her feelings
unless she wanted them to. What she did project was comforting to
Matheson; her playfulness and laughter making him respond in kind.
"Yes Lieutenant, we wouldn't want that." Just as suddenly as she
touched him, Dureena removed her hand.
"Thank you." Matheson replaced the com and relaxed happily, eliciting a
few giggles from the thief. Slowly her demeanor changed, the smile
fading from her face.
"Have you heard anything more about the ship that sent the distress
call?" The tunnel car slowed and stopped at its final destination.
After the hatch slid open, the Lieutenant indicated with a motion of his
hand for Dureena to lead. She stepped out into the corridor and waited,
walking with Matheson towards command.
"Yes." John nodded, his head turning slightly as he glanced at her.
"We just received the same transmission Galen intercepted. It was
severely distorted but still recognizable. Captain Gideon has already
sent a reply."
"I hope we can get to them in time and that there aren't any surprises.
For Gideon's sake, anyway." The hallway narrowed, enough that they
could no longer walk side by side. This time Dureena motioned for the
Lieutenant to go first as the walkway inclined slightly before entering
the bridge.
"I hope so too." They moved towards Gideon, stationed in his chair as
he gazed out through the main viewing console into the sea of stars.
Matthew slouched slightly, his left elbow on the armrest as he chewed
absently at the side of his thumb. His other hand curled over his left
ankle as it crossed over a knee. Slowly Gideon glanced over one
shoulder then the other as Dureena and Matheson came to a rest on either
side.
"Did you go back to bed?" He smirked at Dureena.
"I tried and failed. Caught up on some reading instead." She sighed
and rested her hand against the back of his chair as she lifted a foot
to place on the small pedestal beneath it. The thief enjoyed the view
as much as the Captain; she never could get over the serenity of space.
"Anything good?"
"Just an electronic novel I downloaded from Max's personal stash." She
shrugged.
"I can't imagine Max having any interesting reading material."
"About as interesting as his vid collection." Gideon would have sworn
he had seen a blush color Dureena's tan cheeks, but kept the impression
to himself, turning his attention to his first officer.
"Has Doctor Chambers been apprised of the situation?"
"Yes sir." The Lieutenant stood at ease, his hands resting at his
sides. "Triage is prepared for the Toledo's wounded. She would like to
know the extent of their injuries if possible so she can be better
prepared."
"Sounds reasonable enough. I'm hoping we can get further within range
so the lapse between transmissions isn't as great." Gideon finally sat
up, lowering his crossed leg to set the foot on the pedestal beneath the
chair. He wove his fingers together, then turned his palms out,
stretching his arms straight in front of himself.
"Speaking of Max, do you know if he managed to contact IPX?" Gideon
looked back at Dureena and she shook her head.
"I haven't seen him since this morning, well, earlier this morning,
anyway." She leered at the Captain, and he grinned sheepishly in
return.
"Gideon to Eilerson." Matthew raised his left wrist to his mouth and
depressed a switch on his com bracelet.
"Yes, Captain?" A mildly harried xenoarchaeologist entered command,
answering the com page in person. "Before you ask, yes I did get a copy
of that expedition report."
Gideon stood and habitually straightened his uniform as he turned to
face Eilerson. Max had groomed since their earlier meeting, no doubt
for his conference call. He had showered and put on a freshly pressed
dark suit, the circular silver IPX badge pinned on his right lapel.
Max's hand brushed against the suit coat as he reached into his pants'
pocket to pull out a data crystal. He held it with two fingers at the
top and his thumb beneath the point, twisting it slightly to watch the
light reflect off the prism edges.
"It was in the Ghayn system, although I can't understand why. There's
nothing more than a few nondescript planets with very little cultural
significance. It's not exactly my first choice for places to stop amid
hyperspace travel." The crystal waved while Max talked, his hand
expressing his words with a slight flick back and forth of his wrist.
"Thank you for the information." Gideon took a few steps forward,
reaching out as Max handed over the data crystal. "And for the
commentary."
The barb didn't go unnoticed. Max frowned slightly in distaste before
passing it off as Earthforce's usual lack of social grace and the
Captain's typical mockery of his talents. Feathers only slightly
ruffled, Eilerson straightened, both hands slipping into his pockets.
Dureena took a moment to glance at Max, not trying to hide her
amusement. In return, he shot her a contemptuous look, waiting while
Gideon lowered the console from over his chair. He turned the display
so he wouldn't have to sit down again, conferring with Matheson on the
schematics.
"It says here that there's a jump gate near the gaseous planet with the
two moons, but it's not marked as one placed there by Earthforce."
Gideon tapped the display with a finger.
"An original gate, sir?" Matheson asked, studying the chart. The small
system comprised of five planets in orbit around a small sun, the
largest a gaseous planet with asteroid satellites trapped in its gravity
field. The jump gate hung near by, once used for travel and commerce by
the system before the worlds had died, their populations now extinct.
"I think so." Gideon chewed on the inside of his cheek, trying to think
about what would have made the Toledo go to that system. It was an easy
diversion from the standard hyperspace routes in the case of emergency
or needed repairs. If the craft had sustained damages, a smart pilot
wouldn't attempt repair in hyperspace unless it was absolutely
necessary.
"It would probably be safe to assume that they haven't strayed far from
the gate, probably in the hope that they could get back through it. A
good search area would be within ten clicks of the gate in this
direction." Matthew indicated with two fingers the path, sweeping out
from the front of the jumpgate.
"I agree. Should I get an ETA for the system, sir?" Matheson watched
the other items pop up on the screen as Gideon sifted through the rest
of the data crystal.
"If you would. The info will be useful once we get a reply message back
from the Toledo. If they can confirm that it is indeed the Ghayn
system, we'll open up a jump point and head there." The Lieutenant
nodded and turned, moving towards navigations to make the calculation.
Eilerson strolled around command, observing, noticing, studying console
lines and the shape of the characteristics. The Excalibur bridge had
been laid out like a submarine's, a linear design as opposed to the
circular pit of other Earthforce ships. Homogenized from Minbari,
Vorlon, and Earth technology, it had characteristics that were uniquely
its own, down to the metal and tiles that comprised the floor. Metals
were almost crystalline, opalescent under the power lights that ran in
tracks on the ceiling. Panels and walls had a texture that was
different from the usual, flowing into an accent of color or a line of
conduit. Despite the criticism that the ship was sterile and severe,
its simplicity was feminine, consisting more of curves unlike the blocky
edges of most destroyers. To Max, it felt more like a home to him than
the other ships he had been on in his life.
It was something he enjoyed almost every time he came to command. More
than anything else, Eilerson did it because it annoyed Gideon to see the
xenoarchaeologist posing like a lord over a ship that wasn't his. For
every time Gideon did something to rile him, Eilerson returned the
gesture, and his leisurely saunter served that purpose. Max could feel
the Captain's eyes on him as he walked around Dureena, revolving a slow
circle in front of the entry to the map room, past work stations and
personnel, before coming to a stop beside Gideon at his chair.
"Find anything you like, Mister Eilerson?" Matthew spoke nonchalantly,
returning his attention to the console display.
"You'd be the first to know if I didn't, Captain." Max's right hand
slid from his pocket and stretched across the backrest of the chair
towards Dureena's as he crossed his feet at the ankles. "By the way,
that information didn't come for free. IPX is expecting a little
reimbursement in the form of some leeway on our next cultural find."
"What? You did explain to them that this is for a humanitarian mission
to answer a distress call, didn't you?" Gideon turned, his eyes
narrowing at the xenoarchaeologist.
"Of course." Max's smile was plastic. "But it's expensive to keep
records on each and every expedition. They can't fund them for free,
you know."
"Like IPX doesn't make back their money in profits from exploiting dead
cultures?"
"Studying yes, exploiting no."
"Gentlemen, please." Dureena stepped forward, positioning herself at
the armrest of the chair opposite the two. She looked at the men
standing face to face, posturing shamelessly.
"What kind of pod do they grow people like you in, Max?" Gideon shook
his head in disgust. "I'm trying to save lives and IPX wants to turn a
profit."
"Max, Gideon, enough. This is way past being old." Finally she was
able to interrupt.
"He started it." Gideon's finger lifted to point accusingly at
Eilerson. The xenoarchaeologist rolled his eyes and shook his head,
turning away from Gideon with a sardonic snort. Dureena mirrored Max,
but didn't turn from the Captain, showing her disapproval in her stare.
"Sir, we're getting a new incoming message." Matheson's interruption
was perfectly timed, gaining Gideon's attention immediately. "It's the
Toledo again. The signal is much cleaner."
"Any more information included?" Gideon removed the data crystal from
the console and returned it to the overhead canopy.
"Two critically wounded aboard. Approximately four hours life support
left. Nav com is down but she suspects they are in the Ghayn system.
Looks like we were right on track, sir."
"Open a channel. Time to see if we can't connect with them in real
time." Matheson spoke into his com at Gideon's command, finally
signaling the open channel with a thumbs-up. Gideon slipped back into
his chair, accidentally brushing his elbow over Dureena's hands on the
armrest. He touched her forearm in apology as she took a few steps away
from the chair. She took position behind Gideon next to Max, crossing
her arms over her chest in her usual stance of anticipation.
"Excalibur to the freighter Toledo. Are you receiving?" Gideon tapped
a tattoo on the armrest with his fingernails while he waited, glancing
briefly at the Lieutenant who still had his hand to his ear. Matheson
shrugged and shook his head. Matthew frowned and lifted his hand to
swipe beneath his chin, indicating to cut the signal.
"They could be still deciphering our message through the static, sir.
Our coms system is a bit more powerful."
"Is there any way we can boost our signal to help on their end?" Gideon
stroked his lower lip with his thumb, trying to think of ways to better
communications with the Toledo.
"Not without knowing the tolerances of their system, sir. If we sent
our message out in a direct concentrated pulse, there's a possibility we
could short out their system."
"Don't want to do that." Gideon fidgeted again and silently wondered
why things couldn't be easy. "Patience may be a virtue, but I seem to
be running short on it this week. Have I told you lately how much I
hate waiting?"
Matheson smirked but didn't answer Gideon's rhetorical question.
Dureena wasn't so kind, mumbling something under her breath that only
Max was able to hear. He answered with a laugh, stopping instantly when
Gideon swiveled in his chair to glare at them. His face told them both
they were beginning to outstay their welcome, and Dureena muttered an
apology.
Static crackled through the air and Gideon's head whipped back to look
at Matheson. The Lieutenant was nodding, speaking into his com as he
directed the attempt to clean up the signal.
"Toledo to Excalibur, message received. Having some difficulties
cleaning up the static, but I think I have the computer accustomed to
handling it." The pilot's voice answered, fluctuating through the
interference.
"Toledo, we follow. Can you give an update on your wounded?" There was
an additional time lapse during transmission and Gideon waited,
motioning for the Lieutenant to come closer. Matheson did as
instructed, stepping towards Gideon's chair.
"Any word on how long it will take for us to get to the Ghayn system?"
"No, sir. I'll check again."
"Excalibur, we have two critically wounded of a four-person crew; a
Minbari female with a broken arm and leg, and a Human male with broken
ribs, internal bruising, and a fever. My co-pilot has sustained a
concussion and has a bad laceration on his brow, and my shoulder was
dislocated." The Toledo's pilot finally replied, her voice clearing.
"There's something else. Mind if I tell you a story, Excalibur?"
Gideon glanced at Matheson, the two men exchanging looks of confusion as
the Captain leaned forward in his chair, resting his forearms on his
thighs. The Toledo's pilot didn't seem like one for excessive chatter,
so it could be the oxygen deprivation surfacing, but at the same time
she could be trying to get him a message she couldn't directly relate in
the fear of being overheard by the wrong people.
"Certainly, Toledo." Gideon rested his forehead in a hand.
"I used to go fishing a lot when I was a kid. I remember this one time
I had found a huge worm, threaded it through the hook and let it out
into the stream." She paused, making sure the transmission was
complete.
"I was trying to cast it into position, but this one big fish managed to
get a piece of it without getting caught. So all I had left was a small
decrepit bit of worm that didn't even squirm anymore."
Gideon's eyes narrowed as he concentrated on the floor, going through
the details of her story. A whole worm now just pieces; he was
beginning to wonder if she meant her ship.
"But I waited for what seemed forever before I saw through the water
this pike that seemed about a mile long. Very sleek, very shiny, and
could get very nasty if it wanted to. Certainly had the teeth for it."
Very sleek and about a mile long? Could she be referring to the
Excalibur? Since the Drakh dropped the plague after their failed
attempt to use the planet killer on Earth, the Excalibur had been in
nearly every news feed, stating its mission and impressive details.
Gideon kept listening, his interest piquing.
"Just when I was about to give up, the pike took my measly bait, and
never knew what hit it until it was too late. I reeled it in easily
after a small fight because surprise had been on my side."
"How many other fishermen were out in the waters that day waiting for
the pike?" Gideon asked, hoping he was interpreting her message
correctly. Had she figured out that someone was waiting in the shadows
to ambush whatever rescue attempt being made? Could it be the Drakh
like he suspected in his worst fears?
"I knew of one for sure, he was across the stream quite a way. Could
have been others, you know how they swarm like bugs." The last word was
stressed and Gideon sighed, his suspicion was most likely correct. He
quickly tried to think of a way to ask her more directly if it was the
Drakh or not. He understood her need for subterfuge; if the Drakh
figured out that she knew they were present and foiled their attempt to
lure in the Excalibur, the Toledo would be destroyed without
hesitation. At least by notifying Gideon, it wouldn't be such a
surprise attack.
"Yes, like a plague, right?" In his mind's eye, Matthew crossed his
fingers, hoping it wasn't too obvious. With any luck the Drakh who
where listening were still trying to decipher the meaning of fishing.
"Yeah, that type of bug. But you know, Excalibur, sometimes even bugs
can become the bait." She laughed slightly, relieved that he understood
what was being relayed.
"Sir, in normal space it will take us five hours to get to the Ghayn
system; three in hyperspace." Matheson whispered, barely audible to
Gideon so he wouldn't be overheard by the open com line. The Captain
nodded his head and mouthed a thank you.
"Toledo, thanks for the story. It's definitely has given me something
to think about. What is your current life support status at this
point?"
"A little less than four hours and counting down. I can decrease the
output another ten percent, but that will make us unconscious. I might
be able to jury rig something else to extend it further." At least she
was optimistic; Gideon had to give her that much credit.
"Acknowledged. We'll keep the line open in case you need to relay
additional information."
"Negative, Excalibur. I need to reserve power. These active
transmissions are draining too much. I will send a status update in
thirty minutes. Toledo out." The transmission ended and Gideon sat
back again, turning towards Matheson. Dureena stepped closer away from
Max, a look of confusion on her face.
"What as that all about? Fishing, worms, and bugs? Is the pilot
hallucinating?" She lifted a hand from her chest to absently play with
the metal charm hanging from the choker around her neck.
"No, she was trying to tell us without directly stating, that the Drakh
are hanging out around her ship waiting for us." Gideon watched as the
emotions flowed across the thief's face, shock and anger mixing with
fear and hatred.
"That means Galen was right. It is a trap." Her fingers collapsed over
the charm, squeezing it tightly.
"She gave us a chance to develop a plan though, which in turn will make
it easier for us to rescue them." The Captain turned, addressing the
Lieutenant again. "I need tactical to draw up several plans of possible
attacks. Give them the information given to us about the system from
Mister Eilerson, and include that there may be at least two to six Drakh
Raiders, and more than likely, an armed Cruiser. I also want ideas as
to how to rescue the crew of the Toledo during a firefight. Two are
critically wounded and two may be able to assist." Matthew ticked off
his orders on his fingers as Matheson memorized each, watching the
Captain's hands.
"Yes sir. Time frame?" He reached out as Gideon extended his hand,
passing him the data crystal.
"Preferably before the Toledo calls again. That should give them twenty
minutes to come up with a few preliminary ideas. Put the Starfury and
Thunderbolt wings on standby. Eventually I'm going to have to brief
them on what will be going on." Matheson gave Gideon a curt nod before
walking past Eilerson towards a tactical station where he could
coordinate with the teams.
"What do you think our chances are?" Dureena leaned against the chair,
looking down at Gideon. He glanced up, his chin cradled with a hand as
his elbow sat on the armrest.
"We have the advantage now, but I wouldn't place bets just yet."
"That good?" She smiled with sarcasm. "I've seen worse odds."
"So have I. Some you win, some you don't. Let's hope this is in the
win category. I think Earthforce might be a tad angry if the Excalibur
gets destroyed." Gideon grinned, crossing his feet at the ankles as he
stretched them over the small pedestal surrounding his chair.
"They'll have to get in line." Dureena threatened, an eyebrow raising
slightly. "Earthforce will be the last of your worries."
"That's what I'm afraid of." Few things were as dangerous as Dureena
Nafeel when angry, and Gideon always tried his best to keep her from
exhibiting that potential, especially when it concerned him
directly.
Author's Note: A little behind due to some technical difficulties with my computer. I might have taken a bit of creative license with Lt. Matheson's past, but I call them as I see them.
Tilting his head, John Matheson pressed his right ear to his shoulder, a
loud pop resonating; the motion relieved the tension in his neck as the
vertebrae realigned themselves. Sighing, he closed his eyes and rested
his head against the transport tube wall, placing his hands on the rail
behind his waist. He felt the vibrations as the tube rose though the
decks, taking him back towards the bridge and command.
Matheson had gone for a walk down to Medlab to update Doctor Chambers on
the situation and to find out what else she needed to know about the
crew of the Toledo. It could have easily been done by com, but
occasionally the Lieutenant felt the need to catch a few minutes alone.
He was used to the murmur of minds among the officers that manned
command, but the constant control he had to place on his telepathic
abilities created a strain. It was even greater during times of stress
for the crew and with the impending rescue attempt, he wanted to be able
to focus his mind as much as possible.
John often found it relaxing to wander the ship at night while the
skeleton crew worked. After checking in on the shifts he supervised, he
would make his rounds, inspecting the cargo and docking bays before
wandering through the empty decks. Seldom did he run into others on the
bullet cars and in the transport tubes, and he enjoyed the nighttime
telepathic stillness that gave him a chance to lessen the hold he had
placed on his mental shields.
It had taken him a long time to get used to the lack of gloves with his
new uniform. He had been absorbed into the Psi Corps when his so called
talents had surfaced, forced to wear the black leather gloves,
suffocatingly static suit, and the copper-silver badge that seemed
permanently emblazoned on his left chest. What choice did he have if it
was the law? But all he wanted since childhood was to be in Earthforce,
see the stars and to explore. John was an intelligent man who could
have easily earned a commission, but telepaths weren't allowed to
serve. Bias and fear left him with the only choice-- serving the Psi
Corps. Instead of exploring the stars, he was for hire like so many
others at his level, used for his abilities to sense the truth in
thoughts and feelings.
Times changed. With the Telepath Wars, he began to see what the
rebellion had exposed; a conglomeration of despots that wanted power and
control no matter the cost. He had believed that the insurrection was
wrong since the Psi Corps gave telepaths a sense of belonging and a
home, but when he saw evidence that they were killing their own, his
views changed. What made the Corps' actions justified in comparison to
those of the rogues'?
He knew that the base he was stationed at was going to be destroyed, but
he didn't care. John felt betrayed both in trust and in his heart by
how the Corps had lied to him. Only later did the guilt surface,
ashamed that he had let those men and women die, despite their actions.
And the guilt only grew when he was rewarded with what he so desperately
craved-- a chance to enter Earthforce.
Matheson excelled without much effort, graduating with honors from the
Academy to be offered a commission as an officer. Even though the
gloves and psi-dampening suit had come off, he still felt isolated from
'normals' frightened that he would scan them or accidentally pick up on
their thoughts. A constant reminder of his situation was embroidered on
his arm, less conspicuous than the shiny badge he once wore, but present
none the less. The accomplishment was bittersweet even after he had
been assigned his first duty under the command of Captain Matthew Gideon
on the EA explorer, Phoenix.
Gideon had his own reputation as a potential hot head and a gambler, and
above all else, not one to bow to authority. His warm welcome amazed
Matheson, as if the young man was being accepted into a mutual club for
those cast-off and overlooked. The Captain never asked him to bend the
rules or intruded into his personal life, unlike so many others he had
trained with. Gideon told him frankly he didn't care if the Lieutenant
could read every thought in his head, Matheson was trusted until he
proved otherwise. John agreed and not only kept the promise for
himself, but for other telepaths who only wanted something better than
the Psi Corps.
At the same time, Gideon had to live up to the trust Matheson placed in
him. The Lieutenant had been betrayed by those in power before, and
even if this Captain didn't fit the typical Earthforce mold, he was
still human and susceptible to fault. To the day, Gideon hadn't let him
down, his reputation changing in Matheson's eyes to a man who took
carefully calculated risks for what he felt was just for himself and the
crew he commanded, regardless of the political byline.
Stifling a yawn with the back of his hand, Matheson accidentally brushed
against the com positioned at his left ear. The small device gave him
instant access to all departments and to the major communications hubs
around the ship. It was on a different system than the com bracelets
with built in redundancies that would allow him access to the to the
central computer directly without a need for a console. Toggle switches
were mounded to the counter weight arched behind his ear, giving him a
variety of ways to receive and transmit information by voice command.
It was easy to forget he was wearing it, long since used to its
presence.
A slight shutter in the tube made him realize that his ride was to
momentarily pause for someone else to board. Making himself
presentable, Matheson pushed himself off from the wall and opened his
eyes. Lastly he clasped the rail with one hand while the other gently
fisted at his thigh. The doors opened with a quiet hush and revealed
Dureena Nafeel standing patiently in wait. She uncrossed her arms and
nodded at him as she stepped into the tube.
"Lieutenant Matheson."
"Miss Nafeel."
They exchanged greetings as Dureena moved to grasp the rail near him,
her other hand resting at her hip. John continued to stare at the door
hatch, aware that she was studying him, and from his peripheral vision,
he watched as the woman smiled.
"Is that thing permanently attached to your head?" Dureena teased,
watching as Matheson struggled to keep his face straight.
"I had Doctor Chambers glue it in my ear to save time." Glancing down
at her, the Lieutenant finally smiled, bowing his head in slight
embarrassment from the attention. He raised a hand to his face to
smooth his thumb and forefinger across his brow.
"I thought so. I don't think I've ever seen you without that com
link." Dureena spoke like it was a challenge, giving him an evaluating
look-over. He knew she was baiting him, and how far he wanted to play
along was his decision. John could politely refuse or give in, knowing
his unwillingness would only encourage her teasing further. Dureena had
always seen him calm and reserved, and the more comfortable he became
with her, the more likely he was to show her he had more beneath the
surface. Gingerly he reached for his left ear, carefully unhooking the
com to hold in his hand. He turned to face Dureena and smiled widely.
"Are you satisfied? Can I put it back on before I have a break-down?"
Dureena laughed in reply, leaning back against the rail and reached out
with a hand to rest it on his forearm. He began to laugh with her,
slightly shocked that her touch didn't seem to betray any of her
thoughts. Usually unwelcome touch overwhelmed his mind shields,
unprepared for the sudden flow of emotions. Dureena's mind was
different, her reserved nature preventing the projection of her feelings
unless she wanted them to. What she did project was comforting to
Matheson; her playfulness and laughter making him respond in kind.
"Yes Lieutenant, we wouldn't want that." Just as suddenly as she
touched him, Dureena removed her hand.
"Thank you." Matheson replaced the com and relaxed happily, eliciting a
few giggles from the thief. Slowly her demeanor changed, the smile
fading from her face.
"Have you heard anything more about the ship that sent the distress
call?" The tunnel car slowed and stopped at its final destination.
After the hatch slid open, the Lieutenant indicated with a motion of his
hand for Dureena to lead. She stepped out into the corridor and waited,
walking with Matheson towards command.
"Yes." John nodded, his head turning slightly as he glanced at her.
"We just received the same transmission Galen intercepted. It was
severely distorted but still recognizable. Captain Gideon has already
sent a reply."
"I hope we can get to them in time and that there aren't any surprises.
For Gideon's sake, anyway." The hallway narrowed, enough that they
could no longer walk side by side. This time Dureena motioned for the
Lieutenant to go first as the walkway inclined slightly before entering
the bridge.
"I hope so too." They moved towards Gideon, stationed in his chair as
he gazed out through the main viewing console into the sea of stars.
Matthew slouched slightly, his left elbow on the armrest as he chewed
absently at the side of his thumb. His other hand curled over his left
ankle as it crossed over a knee. Slowly Gideon glanced over one
shoulder then the other as Dureena and Matheson came to a rest on either
side.
"Did you go back to bed?" He smirked at Dureena.
"I tried and failed. Caught up on some reading instead." She sighed
and rested her hand against the back of his chair as she lifted a foot
to place on the small pedestal beneath it. The thief enjoyed the view
as much as the Captain; she never could get over the serenity of space.
"Anything good?"
"Just an electronic novel I downloaded from Max's personal stash." She
shrugged.
"I can't imagine Max having any interesting reading material."
"About as interesting as his vid collection." Gideon would have sworn
he had seen a blush color Dureena's tan cheeks, but kept the impression
to himself, turning his attention to his first officer.
"Has Doctor Chambers been apprised of the situation?"
"Yes sir." The Lieutenant stood at ease, his hands resting at his
sides. "Triage is prepared for the Toledo's wounded. She would like to
know the extent of their injuries if possible so she can be better
prepared."
"Sounds reasonable enough. I'm hoping we can get further within range
so the lapse between transmissions isn't as great." Gideon finally sat
up, lowering his crossed leg to set the foot on the pedestal beneath the
chair. He wove his fingers together, then turned his palms out,
stretching his arms straight in front of himself.
"Speaking of Max, do you know if he managed to contact IPX?" Gideon
looked back at Dureena and she shook her head.
"I haven't seen him since this morning, well, earlier this morning,
anyway." She leered at the Captain, and he grinned sheepishly in
return.
"Gideon to Eilerson." Matthew raised his left wrist to his mouth and
depressed a switch on his com bracelet.
"Yes, Captain?" A mildly harried xenoarchaeologist entered command,
answering the com page in person. "Before you ask, yes I did get a copy
of that expedition report."
Gideon stood and habitually straightened his uniform as he turned to
face Eilerson. Max had groomed since their earlier meeting, no doubt
for his conference call. He had showered and put on a freshly pressed
dark suit, the circular silver IPX badge pinned on his right lapel.
Max's hand brushed against the suit coat as he reached into his pants'
pocket to pull out a data crystal. He held it with two fingers at the
top and his thumb beneath the point, twisting it slightly to watch the
light reflect off the prism edges.
"It was in the Ghayn system, although I can't understand why. There's
nothing more than a few nondescript planets with very little cultural
significance. It's not exactly my first choice for places to stop amid
hyperspace travel." The crystal waved while Max talked, his hand
expressing his words with a slight flick back and forth of his wrist.
"Thank you for the information." Gideon took a few steps forward,
reaching out as Max handed over the data crystal. "And for the
commentary."
The barb didn't go unnoticed. Max frowned slightly in distaste before
passing it off as Earthforce's usual lack of social grace and the
Captain's typical mockery of his talents. Feathers only slightly
ruffled, Eilerson straightened, both hands slipping into his pockets.
Dureena took a moment to glance at Max, not trying to hide her
amusement. In return, he shot her a contemptuous look, waiting while
Gideon lowered the console from over his chair. He turned the display
so he wouldn't have to sit down again, conferring with Matheson on the
schematics.
"It says here that there's a jump gate near the gaseous planet with the
two moons, but it's not marked as one placed there by Earthforce."
Gideon tapped the display with a finger.
"An original gate, sir?" Matheson asked, studying the chart. The small
system comprised of five planets in orbit around a small sun, the
largest a gaseous planet with asteroid satellites trapped in its gravity
field. The jump gate hung near by, once used for travel and commerce by
the system before the worlds had died, their populations now extinct.
"I think so." Gideon chewed on the inside of his cheek, trying to think
about what would have made the Toledo go to that system. It was an easy
diversion from the standard hyperspace routes in the case of emergency
or needed repairs. If the craft had sustained damages, a smart pilot
wouldn't attempt repair in hyperspace unless it was absolutely
necessary.
"It would probably be safe to assume that they haven't strayed far from
the gate, probably in the hope that they could get back through it. A
good search area would be within ten clicks of the gate in this
direction." Matthew indicated with two fingers the path, sweeping out
from the front of the jumpgate.
"I agree. Should I get an ETA for the system, sir?" Matheson watched
the other items pop up on the screen as Gideon sifted through the rest
of the data crystal.
"If you would. The info will be useful once we get a reply message back
from the Toledo. If they can confirm that it is indeed the Ghayn
system, we'll open up a jump point and head there." The Lieutenant
nodded and turned, moving towards navigations to make the calculation.
Eilerson strolled around command, observing, noticing, studying console
lines and the shape of the characteristics. The Excalibur bridge had
been laid out like a submarine's, a linear design as opposed to the
circular pit of other Earthforce ships. Homogenized from Minbari,
Vorlon, and Earth technology, it had characteristics that were uniquely
its own, down to the metal and tiles that comprised the floor. Metals
were almost crystalline, opalescent under the power lights that ran in
tracks on the ceiling. Panels and walls had a texture that was
different from the usual, flowing into an accent of color or a line of
conduit. Despite the criticism that the ship was sterile and severe,
its simplicity was feminine, consisting more of curves unlike the blocky
edges of most destroyers. To Max, it felt more like a home to him than
the other ships he had been on in his life.
It was something he enjoyed almost every time he came to command. More
than anything else, Eilerson did it because it annoyed Gideon to see the
xenoarchaeologist posing like a lord over a ship that wasn't his. For
every time Gideon did something to rile him, Eilerson returned the
gesture, and his leisurely saunter served that purpose. Max could feel
the Captain's eyes on him as he walked around Dureena, revolving a slow
circle in front of the entry to the map room, past work stations and
personnel, before coming to a stop beside Gideon at his chair.
"Find anything you like, Mister Eilerson?" Matthew spoke nonchalantly,
returning his attention to the console display.
"You'd be the first to know if I didn't, Captain." Max's right hand
slid from his pocket and stretched across the backrest of the chair
towards Dureena's as he crossed his feet at the ankles. "By the way,
that information didn't come for free. IPX is expecting a little
reimbursement in the form of some leeway on our next cultural find."
"What? You did explain to them that this is for a humanitarian mission
to answer a distress call, didn't you?" Gideon turned, his eyes
narrowing at the xenoarchaeologist.
"Of course." Max's smile was plastic. "But it's expensive to keep
records on each and every expedition. They can't fund them for free,
you know."
"Like IPX doesn't make back their money in profits from exploiting dead
cultures?"
"Studying yes, exploiting no."
"Gentlemen, please." Dureena stepped forward, positioning herself at
the armrest of the chair opposite the two. She looked at the men
standing face to face, posturing shamelessly.
"What kind of pod do they grow people like you in, Max?" Gideon shook
his head in disgust. "I'm trying to save lives and IPX wants to turn a
profit."
"Max, Gideon, enough. This is way past being old." Finally she was
able to interrupt.
"He started it." Gideon's finger lifted to point accusingly at
Eilerson. The xenoarchaeologist rolled his eyes and shook his head,
turning away from Gideon with a sardonic snort. Dureena mirrored Max,
but didn't turn from the Captain, showing her disapproval in her stare.
"Sir, we're getting a new incoming message." Matheson's interruption
was perfectly timed, gaining Gideon's attention immediately. "It's the
Toledo again. The signal is much cleaner."
"Any more information included?" Gideon removed the data crystal from
the console and returned it to the overhead canopy.
"Two critically wounded aboard. Approximately four hours life support
left. Nav com is down but she suspects they are in the Ghayn system.
Looks like we were right on track, sir."
"Open a channel. Time to see if we can't connect with them in real
time." Matheson spoke into his com at Gideon's command, finally
signaling the open channel with a thumbs-up. Gideon slipped back into
his chair, accidentally brushing his elbow over Dureena's hands on the
armrest. He touched her forearm in apology as she took a few steps away
from the chair. She took position behind Gideon next to Max, crossing
her arms over her chest in her usual stance of anticipation.
"Excalibur to the freighter Toledo. Are you receiving?" Gideon tapped
a tattoo on the armrest with his fingernails while he waited, glancing
briefly at the Lieutenant who still had his hand to his ear. Matheson
shrugged and shook his head. Matthew frowned and lifted his hand to
swipe beneath his chin, indicating to cut the signal.
"They could be still deciphering our message through the static, sir.
Our coms system is a bit more powerful."
"Is there any way we can boost our signal to help on their end?" Gideon
stroked his lower lip with his thumb, trying to think of ways to better
communications with the Toledo.
"Not without knowing the tolerances of their system, sir. If we sent
our message out in a direct concentrated pulse, there's a possibility we
could short out their system."
"Don't want to do that." Gideon fidgeted again and silently wondered
why things couldn't be easy. "Patience may be a virtue, but I seem to
be running short on it this week. Have I told you lately how much I
hate waiting?"
Matheson smirked but didn't answer Gideon's rhetorical question.
Dureena wasn't so kind, mumbling something under her breath that only
Max was able to hear. He answered with a laugh, stopping instantly when
Gideon swiveled in his chair to glare at them. His face told them both
they were beginning to outstay their welcome, and Dureena muttered an
apology.
Static crackled through the air and Gideon's head whipped back to look
at Matheson. The Lieutenant was nodding, speaking into his com as he
directed the attempt to clean up the signal.
"Toledo to Excalibur, message received. Having some difficulties
cleaning up the static, but I think I have the computer accustomed to
handling it." The pilot's voice answered, fluctuating through the
interference.
"Toledo, we follow. Can you give an update on your wounded?" There was
an additional time lapse during transmission and Gideon waited,
motioning for the Lieutenant to come closer. Matheson did as
instructed, stepping towards Gideon's chair.
"Any word on how long it will take for us to get to the Ghayn system?"
"No, sir. I'll check again."
"Excalibur, we have two critically wounded of a four-person crew; a
Minbari female with a broken arm and leg, and a Human male with broken
ribs, internal bruising, and a fever. My co-pilot has sustained a
concussion and has a bad laceration on his brow, and my shoulder was
dislocated." The Toledo's pilot finally replied, her voice clearing.
"There's something else. Mind if I tell you a story, Excalibur?"
Gideon glanced at Matheson, the two men exchanging looks of confusion as
the Captain leaned forward in his chair, resting his forearms on his
thighs. The Toledo's pilot didn't seem like one for excessive chatter,
so it could be the oxygen deprivation surfacing, but at the same time
she could be trying to get him a message she couldn't directly relate in
the fear of being overheard by the wrong people.
"Certainly, Toledo." Gideon rested his forehead in a hand.
"I used to go fishing a lot when I was a kid. I remember this one time
I had found a huge worm, threaded it through the hook and let it out
into the stream." She paused, making sure the transmission was
complete.
"I was trying to cast it into position, but this one big fish managed to
get a piece of it without getting caught. So all I had left was a small
decrepit bit of worm that didn't even squirm anymore."
Gideon's eyes narrowed as he concentrated on the floor, going through
the details of her story. A whole worm now just pieces; he was
beginning to wonder if she meant her ship.
"But I waited for what seemed forever before I saw through the water
this pike that seemed about a mile long. Very sleek, very shiny, and
could get very nasty if it wanted to. Certainly had the teeth for it."
Very sleek and about a mile long? Could she be referring to the
Excalibur? Since the Drakh dropped the plague after their failed
attempt to use the planet killer on Earth, the Excalibur had been in
nearly every news feed, stating its mission and impressive details.
Gideon kept listening, his interest piquing.
"Just when I was about to give up, the pike took my measly bait, and
never knew what hit it until it was too late. I reeled it in easily
after a small fight because surprise had been on my side."
"How many other fishermen were out in the waters that day waiting for
the pike?" Gideon asked, hoping he was interpreting her message
correctly. Had she figured out that someone was waiting in the shadows
to ambush whatever rescue attempt being made? Could it be the Drakh
like he suspected in his worst fears?
"I knew of one for sure, he was across the stream quite a way. Could
have been others, you know how they swarm like bugs." The last word was
stressed and Gideon sighed, his suspicion was most likely correct. He
quickly tried to think of a way to ask her more directly if it was the
Drakh or not. He understood her need for subterfuge; if the Drakh
figured out that she knew they were present and foiled their attempt to
lure in the Excalibur, the Toledo would be destroyed without
hesitation. At least by notifying Gideon, it wouldn't be such a
surprise attack.
"Yes, like a plague, right?" In his mind's eye, Matthew crossed his
fingers, hoping it wasn't too obvious. With any luck the Drakh who
where listening were still trying to decipher the meaning of fishing.
"Yeah, that type of bug. But you know, Excalibur, sometimes even bugs
can become the bait." She laughed slightly, relieved that he understood
what was being relayed.
"Sir, in normal space it will take us five hours to get to the Ghayn
system; three in hyperspace." Matheson whispered, barely audible to
Gideon so he wouldn't be overheard by the open com line. The Captain
nodded his head and mouthed a thank you.
"Toledo, thanks for the story. It's definitely has given me something
to think about. What is your current life support status at this
point?"
"A little less than four hours and counting down. I can decrease the
output another ten percent, but that will make us unconscious. I might
be able to jury rig something else to extend it further." At least she
was optimistic; Gideon had to give her that much credit.
"Acknowledged. We'll keep the line open in case you need to relay
additional information."
"Negative, Excalibur. I need to reserve power. These active
transmissions are draining too much. I will send a status update in
thirty minutes. Toledo out." The transmission ended and Gideon sat
back again, turning towards Matheson. Dureena stepped closer away from
Max, a look of confusion on her face.
"What as that all about? Fishing, worms, and bugs? Is the pilot
hallucinating?" She lifted a hand from her chest to absently play with
the metal charm hanging from the choker around her neck.
"No, she was trying to tell us without directly stating, that the Drakh
are hanging out around her ship waiting for us." Gideon watched as the
emotions flowed across the thief's face, shock and anger mixing with
fear and hatred.
"That means Galen was right. It is a trap." Her fingers collapsed over
the charm, squeezing it tightly.
"She gave us a chance to develop a plan though, which in turn will make
it easier for us to rescue them." The Captain turned, addressing the
Lieutenant again. "I need tactical to draw up several plans of possible
attacks. Give them the information given to us about the system from
Mister Eilerson, and include that there may be at least two to six Drakh
Raiders, and more than likely, an armed Cruiser. I also want ideas as
to how to rescue the crew of the Toledo during a firefight. Two are
critically wounded and two may be able to assist." Matthew ticked off
his orders on his fingers as Matheson memorized each, watching the
Captain's hands.
"Yes sir. Time frame?" He reached out as Gideon extended his hand,
passing him the data crystal.
"Preferably before the Toledo calls again. That should give them twenty
minutes to come up with a few preliminary ideas. Put the Starfury and
Thunderbolt wings on standby. Eventually I'm going to have to brief
them on what will be going on." Matheson gave Gideon a curt nod before
walking past Eilerson towards a tactical station where he could
coordinate with the teams.
"What do you think our chances are?" Dureena leaned against the chair,
looking down at Gideon. He glanced up, his chin cradled with a hand as
his elbow sat on the armrest.
"We have the advantage now, but I wouldn't place bets just yet."
"That good?" She smiled with sarcasm. "I've seen worse odds."
"So have I. Some you win, some you don't. Let's hope this is in the
win category. I think Earthforce might be a tad angry if the Excalibur
gets destroyed." Gideon grinned, crossing his feet at the ankles as he
stretched them over the small pedestal surrounding his chair.
"They'll have to get in line." Dureena threatened, an eyebrow raising
slightly. "Earthforce will be the last of your worries."
"That's what I'm afraid of." Few things were as dangerous as Dureena
Nafeel when angry, and Gideon always tried his best to keep her from
exhibiting that potential, especially when it concerned him
directly.