Eight years ago, Chakotay was unit commander of a motley crew of Maquis
partisans in the Badlands. They had committed numerous hit-and-run raids
along the Cardassian frontier. They also blocked the Federation's attempts
to move them from their settlements. With the Federation and Cardassia
negotiating a shaky armistice, the Maquis' political leadership was losing
its leverage.
Something had to be done to solidify their resistance and force the Federation to recognize their grievances. Some Maquis cells were already considering sabotage against the Federation to draw attention to their views. Chakotay momentarily awoke from his long-suppressed memories from that era.
"Please tell us about the events leading up to the USS Vancouver incident," Cmdr. Riker requested.
When he began his testimony, Chakotay mind drifted again. He recalled that there was a flurry of activity in camp when one of their subspace sensors picked up a vessel with a Starfleet signature.
Eight years. It was a lifetime ago, it seemed.
"Is it a starship?" Chakotay had asked.
"No," one of his subordinates answered. "It's a science vessel. The Vancouver."
A few feet away, Torres and a dozen partisans were collecting supplies and phaser rifles.
"Science vessel or not," Torres began, "we should at least have a look."
Chakotay turned to his new recruit, Strickland. Once a Starfleet lieutenant who had been decorated as one of the few survivors of Wolf 359, Strickland had left behind his career to begin a new life in the Badlands.
Strickland seemed loyal enough. Quick-thinking. Handy with a phaser. Not afraid to crawl under a shuttle to make unorthodox repairs. Willing to serve the cause.
Chakotay wanted to trust him. After all, he was dedicated to preserving the Federation settlements at any cost. But Strickland seemed a bit too enthusiastic about fighting. "I'll take one of the smaller mining vessels," Strickland offered. "Have a look-see."
Torres sensed Chakotay's uneasiness. "I'll co-pilot," she offered. Maybe I can keep an eye on our gung-ho friend, she thought.
Another partisan sprinted towards the camp. "There's a platoon of Cardassian soldiers. About half a kilometre northeast. Sniffing around for our camp, no doubt."
"Liquidate them," Chakotay ordered tersely. Years of fighting and Cardassian barbarity had numbed him from any remorse. It was war, nothing more. "No prisoners." Cardassia had showed no mercy to the Maquis they had captured. He intended to extend that same courtesy to these interlopers.
"B'Elanna, take about two dozen Maquis with you," Chakotay decided. "Make it quick and clean. Take their weapons and comlinks when you're finished."
"How about the Vancouver?" Torres wondered. She felt uneasy letting this Strickland out on a scouting mission.
Chakotay tried to forget his nagging suspicions about Strickland. The Maquis needed to be united now, or their cause was lost. "I think Strickland has earned his stripes," Chakotay replied. "It's just a look- see. Anyhow, the sensors say it's only a science vessel. Minimal armaments. I don't expect trouble."
Chakotay told the inquiry that he left the camp shortly after. On his way to town, he heard the phaser fight. The screams. He was used to them. Torres was a capable field commander. No Cardassian in that platoon would live to report their location.
It was later that evening that he learned about the explosion aboard the USS Vancouver.
"Commander?" Riker whispered. Chakotay blinked. He was back in the antiseptic hearing room at Starfleet Intelligence. The Maquis Inquiry.
"So, are you telling this inquiry that you knew nothing about the sabotage of the Vancouver?" Admiral Ravvik demanded.
"That's correct," Chakotay insisted. "I agreed that Strickland should have a look-see."
"Look-see?" another commissioner asked. "Is that some sort of Maquis code phrase for sabotage?"
"No," Torres interrupted, "it means Strickland went to have a look at the Vancouver . and see what it was doing in the Badlands."
"Here is the dilemma," Ravvik analyzed. "Strickland was given an order to spy on the Vancouver, which had every right to be there since the territory was in Federation space. His action, by its very nature, implies a malicious intent."
Chakotay sighed impatiently. "The Federation had refused to include our representatives at the eventual armistice. They were handing over our homes piecemeal! We felt abandoned by Starfleet, as Cardassians pillaged the outer settlements. If you want me to say that I saw Starfleet's actions as a threat to our existence, you're damn right I did . at the time."
"The Maquis leadership were under intense pressure to act," Riker added. "They were torn between complying with the Federation's wishes to evacuate the ceded outposts, or continuing what could be classified as a legitimate uprising against Cardassia. We've long known about Cardassian violations in Federation territories. The Maquis were defending their homes."
Ravvik shook his head at the reply. "The term, Commander, is rebellion. They were rebelling against the rightful authority: the Federation."
"Please continue, Cmdr. Riker, your argument" one of the commissioners grumbled, "that neither of your clients are responsible for the destruction of the USS Vancouver."
As Riker explained the emerging rift in the Maquis movement, Chakotay's mind wandered once more beyond Sector 001. Eight years ago . when he was fighting a losing battle.
Chakotay had just returned to the Maquis camp. He wanted to know about the explosion in space. Torres was already there, with dozens of Cardassian rifles, gear and comlinks. Their hunt was successful.
Strickland stumbled into the camp, with a bright red gash on his forehead. Dozens more returned from the front.
"What the hell happened up there?" Torres exclaimed. "Where's the Vancouver?"
"I - we . it's destroyed," Strickland blurted, as he pressed a cloth against his cut.
"How?" Chakotay grabbed Strickland by the shoulders and shook him. "If you destroyed it, we'll have half the fleet swarming the Badlands by the end of the week!"
"That was no science vessel!" Strickland declared. "We tapped their subspace communications. They had hundreds of security agents aboard! They were going to sabotage our generators. I tried to slip away, but they spotted me."
"I told you to see what they're up to," Chakotay argued, "The last thing we need is to pick a fight with Starfleet!"
"They fired on me first!" Strickland insisted, as he clutched his throbbing cut.
"Starfleet fired on you, without provocation?" Torres asked. A crowd of Maquis partisans gathered around. Some began to bicker.
"We - we had configured a makeshift sensor array to make it look like we were only surveying minerals," Strickland continued. "The Vancouver picked up our sensors and fired a shot at our port! We shut down our sensors, and the next thing I saw was this sickening bluish glow."
"Please, tell me you didn't fire a shot at them," Chakotay hoped. Strickland caught his breath. "I was too busy trying to get out of their range. For a science vessel, they seemed to be packing some heavy artillery."
Chakotay tried to appease his squabbling unit, but it was too late. They were truly alone, now that the Federation's actions effectively declared their movement as rebellious.
Over the next few days, a debate raged throughout the Maquis movement. The militants wanted to begin attacks on Federation vessels to force their way to the negotiating table. Chakotay, Torres and the moderates wanted to refrain from starting a shooting war with Starfleet. The Maquis never regained their cohesion after the schism. Within weeks, Cardassian forces overran several Federation outposts - conveniently, days before the final armistice negotiations.
The Maquis dismantled their camps and retreated to those outposts still loyal to their cause. Starfleet had already sent two starships to supervise the evacuation of Federation settlers. Strickland and the militants continued their own fight, at the cost of many lives. Chakotay heard rumours about a major skirmish close to the Cardassian frontier. By then, he and Torres were fleeting a Federation pursuit vessel called the Voyager.
Chakotay and Torres would only learn recently that most of their comrades- in-arms died, their dreams shattered forever. Federation neglect and Cardassian conquests had sealed their fate.
The beep of a data pad brought Chakotay back to the present. Riker had just completed his version of the destruction of the USS Vancouver.
"They fired no shots," Riker concluded, "but they were fired upon. The Vancouver was not designed to be a warship. It was modified far beyond its capacity. If there's any blame, it falls upon the engineers who hastily cobbled together a warship because Starfleet Security ordered them to do it."
"A touching story, Cmdr. Riker," Ravvik noted, "had the Maquis directed their actions against the Cardassians alone. Whey they spy on Starfleet vessels and defy the wishes of the Federation, they chose to abandon their loyalties. By ordering Strickland to commit an act of espionage, Chakotay and his subordinates set a course of events in motion that caused the destruction of the USS Vancouver and the loss of 200 lives."
Ravvik stood up, glaring at the defendants' table. "The forcing of political action through violence. Is that not the definition of terrorism? The Maquis' raison d'etre was violent opposition."
He pointed accusingly at Chakotay. "You and your leaders chose violence over political discourse. Revenge over reason. Your assault on the Vancouver was not an act of self-defence, but of murder. We have heard nothing to convince us that your actions were not based on malice. Do you think roaming the Delta Quadrant for seven years absolves you of your past crimes? I assure you, it does not!"
He glanced at his commissioners. "This inquiry will give you our verdict within the hour."
When the commissioners left, Chakotay extended his hand towards Riker. "Thank you, Commander."
"For what?" Riker groaned. "They rejected my arguments at every turn, refused potential witnesses, concealed crucial logs from the Admiralty . to what end? They intend to drag your names through the mud to silence their detractors, while they take credit for protecting the Federation's interests."
Chakotay settled into his chair. "When you were making your arguments, it got me to think about what we were fighting for in the Badlands. One could argue that the Maquis were the most fiercely loyal to the Federation's interests. We fought because the powers-that-be had begun to lose faith in its values. As bad as it seems now, I refuse to believe the Federation has become so rotten to the core that it can't be saved."
"Haven't you heard a word Cmdr. Riker said?" Torres wondered. "This kangaroo court is going to convict us of treason. I, for one, am not looking forward to prison life on Europa!"
"I would rather lose my career defending the values of the Federation," Chakotay insisted, "than keep my rank as one of Ravvik's toadies. We made tremendous sacrifices for the Maquis cause. This is a time for sacrifice. Our predicament might force others in Starfleet to wake up to what's going on behind closed doors. We're up against the ropes, but we haven't been knocked out yet."
Riker patted Torres' shoulder. "We're doing everything we can to get both of you out of this mess. I'm not going to allow those militants in the Admiralty ruin the careers of two fine Starfleet officers. Have faith, Lt. Torres. Your shipmates haven't given up. And neither have I."
As they left the Starfleet Intelligence compound, Riker stopped on the path. "I have been in contact with the Voyager and the Enterprise. I want you to know there are people in the Admiralty working on our behalf."
"Lemme guess," Chakotay replied, "the crisis in the Admiralty is coming to a head."
"I can't divulge any more," Riker revealed, "but you can be sure that you won't spend a day behind bars."
Chakotay and Torres traded bewildered glances.
"I'll see you two in an hour for the verdict," Riker noted. "I'm expecting an update on the Federation Council's emergency session."
Riker left the Voyager crewmates confused by his secretive behaviour. What exactly were their friends aboard the Voyager and the Enterprise planning?
Riker returned to Admiral Hall to retrieve the latest news from the Federation Council.
And a classified update about Project: Undertow. It was 1130 hours. Half of the fleet was still in orbit.
High above the planet, the Enterprise crew continued to perform routine drills, upgrades and exercises. Only the bridge crew (and select officers from the USS Voyager) knew that 1200 hours would be a time of decision.
A decision Acting Captain Data would have to make.
Tuvok found the android alone in Holodeck 3. The setting seemed cold and damp.
"Is this a castle, Captain?" Tuvok inquired. Torch lamps burned along the walls. Gothic arched windows soared to the heavens. In the distance, he could hear singing in Latin.
"A French monastery, circa 1500 AD," Data replied, "Navarre, France to be exact."
"The birthplace of Capt. Picard," Tuvok noted.
As Data walked towards him, his footsteps echoed on the stone floor.
"I had hoped that it would be easier to form a decision in a quiet place," Data offered.
Tuvok studied a wooden lectern, sifting through the Renaissance-era manuscripts. "Capt. Janeway made her motion to the Federation Council this morning. They are deliberating at this moment whether or not to suspend the Maquis Inquiry."
He noticed that Data seemed troubled - if it was possible for an artificial being to have such a feeling.
"If I were to launch Phase II of Project: Undertow," Data began, "how would you see the next 12-24 hours unfold?"
Tuvok considered the question carefully. "If Capt. Janeway fails to win over the Council, we would lack the political clout to resist the Cavalry Faction for long. They would likely brand us as traitors and arrest us. Our supporters would not settle for that outcome. I expect that they would take up arms to defend us."
"Then our actions could risk a much larger civil war," Data feared, "as Federation members allied themselves with one faction or another. Cmdr. Riker assures me that Capt. Picard is aware of the crisis in the Admiralty, but he would not elaborate further. I would have liked to hear the captain's advice."
"As would I," Tuvok agreed. He listened to the chants of the monks. "I can see why you chose a monastery to weigh your options. I have every confidence that you will make the right choice. Not only for my shipmates, but for Starfleet."
"Thank you, Commander," Data replied. If 50% of the fleet remained in Sector 001 after 1200 hours, that would mean they are defying a direct order from the Admiralty. It would signal that the Cavalry Faction had usurped Starfleet's authority. Admiral Ravvik and his followers could take control of Starfleet and bend the Federation to its will. The treaties with the Klingons, Romulans and Cardassians would likely fall to dust, as the war hawks in Starfleet expanded the Federation beyond their current frontiers.
That is not the Federation I want, Data thought. He had studied the histories of many civilizations over the past few hours. Sometimes, a cataclysmic event was required to promote change. Did the Federation need a war to renew itself?
The alternative was to accept Ravvik's ascension as a de facto military governor, lording over an indecisive and weakened Federation Council. That would plunge the Federation into galactic chaos.
"We cannot simply allow Admiral Ravvik and his cohort seize control of Starfleet Command," Data concluded. "The actions of militant elements at Starfleet Command - and the risk of Section 31 involvement - constitute a clear and present danger to the sovereignty of the Federation. If the fleet has not dispersed from Sector 001 by 1201 p.m. Pacific Standard Time, you are authorized to begin Phase II. I will return The Doctor to you at that time."
"I understand, Captain," Tuvok nodded. He walked over to the holodeck control panel and checked the chronometer.
"It is 10 minutes to 12," Tuvok announced. "My crew should return to the Voyager to prepare for Phase II."
"You have your orders," Data replied. "I wish you success on your mission." He blew out a candle on a desk. Dark shadows enveloped the study hall.
Tuvok paused before he left the holodeck. "I expect to see the Enterprise at the Mars rendezvous at 1800 hours."
Data smirked slightly. "I, too, will expect to see Capt. Janeway and your crew there. Good luck, Commander."
As the noon-hour approached, the members of Project: Undertow prepared the unthinkable:
An insurrection against Starfleet itself.
Lt. Paris and dozens of security officers from both the Voyager and the Enterprise armed themselves with phaser rifles. Neelix watched nervously as the officers marched towards Voyager Cargo Bay 7. In minutes, they would be beamed into Starfleet Security's fortress-like compound. They were expected to thwart the Cavalry Faction's countermeasures and rescue ranking officers of the Diplomat Faction.
Dr. Crusher had surgically masked Seven's Borg implants. She looked human. Cmdr. Worf had already provided her with civilian clothing. She would be beamed directly to San Francisco. There, she would await instructions from Worf.
Cmdr. Laforge gave Ensign Kim a few last-minute instructions, then escorted him to Transporter Room 2. They waited for 1200 hours. Once aboard the Voyager, Kim would try to scramble the fleet's communications - in the event Ravvik's allies were seizing control of the fleet.
A sense of inevitably had fallen upon the parties to this conspiracy. Phase II of Project: Undertow would begin. And it could lead to war.
How it would end was anybody's guess.
On the bridge of the Enterprise, Data stood up from the captain's chair.
"Ensign Maxwell," Data inquired, "have you seen any movement from the fleet? Is there any indication that they are leaving Earth's orbit?"
"None, sir," Maxwell stated. "They're either on stand-by, or already in dock."
The Doctor, seated to Data's left, glanced nervously at him.
Data stood up. "Computer, Red Alert." Alarms rang as red lights pulsed throughout the ship.
It was 1200 hours and the fleet had not moved.
"This is the captain," he announced to his crew, "All hands on deck. This is not a drill."
Ensign Maxwell gulped. She had been aboard the Enterprise for six months and had seen no action. I knew it, she thought to herself. The Cardassians did break the armistice!
"Ensign Maxwell," Data continued, "Stand by."
The Doctor looked at the magnified view of the fleet. Still no movement. Could so many ships be under Ravvik's control? Nothing was certain.
Data studied the main viewscreen for a moment, then sat in the captain's chair again.
"This will be my last order to you, Doctor," Data stated, "After you transmit the order to project members, you will be returned to the Voyager."
"Understood," The Doctor nodded.
Data paused, certain that there would be no second chances after he gave The Doctor the order that would launch Phase II.
"Doctor, please transmit the code word to Cmdr. Worf and Lt. Paris," Data stated. Now it begins.
"Aye, aye, sir," The Doctor replied.
The Doctor walked to the communications station to the rear. He tapped a panel.
"Worf standing by," the Klingon's voice declared over the intercom.
"Lt. Paris standing by," Paris announced. "Do you have the code word, Doc?"
The Doctor looked towards Data, hoping in vain that he would not be asked to condemn his shipmates to an uncertain fate.
Data nodded. "Please transmit the code word."
The Doctor began to mouth the word, which would immediately set in motion a chain reaction that could not be stopped.
So much for my dreams of joining the Academy's medical faculty, he groaned to himself. He heard the turbolift door open.
A hand covered his mouth before he could utter the word.
"Belay that order, Doctor," a voice announced from the rear.
"Captain Picard!" Data seemed surprised.
Picard let out a sigh of relief. "Thank goodness I was able to contact Cmdr. Riker in time. When he notified me about your little project, I must admit I found it to be quite unorthodox. But with all due respect, Data, I'd like my ship back."
Data smirked slightly. "Computer. Transfer all command codes to Captain Picard. Authorization: Data, Epsilon 0237."
"Recognize Picard, Jean-Luc as Captain of the USS Enterprise," the computer answered.
"You are relieved, Commander," Picard smiled.
"I stand relieved, Captain," Data stated.
"But over half the fleet defying a direct order from Starfleet!" The Doctor babbled. "We're on the verge of a mutiny!"
"A mutiny?" Ensign Maxwell gasped. "What exactly is going on, sir?"
Picard tried to soothe the fears of the bridge crew. "The Federation Council has voted minutes ago to suspend the proceedings of the Maquis Inquiry for the foreseeable future. Capt. Janeway made quite a convincing presentation, I'm told."
"But the fleet --," The Doctor muttered.
"Captain!" Ensign Maxwell announced, as she scanned the main viewscreen. "The fleet is dispersing! They're either leaving the docks or reversing course!"
Starships of every size and shape zoomed away from Earth's atmosphere or departed Sector 001 altogether.
Data checked his internal chronometer. 1203 hours. A few minutes late, he thought, but the fleet chose not to play the kingmaker's role for Admiral Ravvik and the Cavalry Faction.
This time.
"Doctor, Data, in my Ready Room," Picard stated. He waited until the doors closed behind them.
"Data, please inform project members from the Voyager and the Enterprise to remain on stand-by until further notice," Picard ordered. "We're not quite out of the woods yet."
"Sir?" Data wondered.
"Have Mr. Worf and a security detail meet me at the Starfleet Intelligence compound," Picard continued. "I have orders of my own to carry out. Some unfinished business with Admiral Ravvik."
"Shall I return to Voyager, then?" The Doctor wondered.
Picard paused in front of him. "Not yet. If Ravvik has plans of his own, I may yet ask you to - as William Shakespeare so eloquently wrote in Julius Caesar - 'cry havoc and let slip the dogs of war'. Let's hope it doesn't come to that."
"Yes, sir," The Doctor beamed.
"Data, you have the bridge," Picard stated, as he entered the turbolift. "Beam me and the security detail directly to Starfleet Intelligence."
Within minutes, Picard, Worf and a dozen security officers materialized in front of the inquiry hearing room. Admiral Jellico and Cmdr. Tuvok were already there.
"Admiral Jellico?" Picard inquired, while trading curious glances with Worf. "You were Riker's contact in the Admiralty?"
Jellico shook his head. "Yes I am. When I learned that Riker was serving as an advocate at the Inquiry, I needed to be sure he wasn't serving the Cavalry's interests. Cmdr. Tuvok tells me we nearly averted an open rebellion at Starfleet Command."
"Much too close for comfort, sir," Picard replied. "If the fleet didn't disperse as ordered, we may very well have found ourselves in the middle of an insurrection. I received a special warrant from the Admiralty, though I haven't been able to review it."
"Don't open it yet, Picard," Jellico exclaimed. "I want to see Ravvik's face when you read the charges. He's had it coming for quite some time."
Jellico glanced at Worf and the dozen security officers. "Have Worf accompany you, but I think you can leave your security detail outside for now. It's an arrest, not the Alamo."
"Agreed, Admiral," Picard replied, "but I would prefer that we're ready for any situation. Ravvik may still have some surprises for us. If you don't mind me asking, why are you here?"
"In the event Ravvik's conspirators intercepted you in France," Jellico explained, "I would have arrested that scheming Vulcan myself. Now that you've robbed me of that privilege, I'm merely here to ensure that he doesn't try to pull rank on you."
In the hearing room, Ravvik was delivering the final verdict.
"On the charges of conspiracy against the Federation, sabotage and treason," Ravvik announced with great ceremony, "this inquiry finds the defendants guilty on all counts. On the multiple charges of murder concerning the crew of the USS Vancouver, we find the defendants guilty."
Then, the doors slid open. "I beg to differ, Admiral Ravvik," Jellico sneered.
Ravvik turned towards him. He saw Jellico, Tuvok, Picard and Worf standing behind the defendants.
"Cmdr. Tuvok, arrest Jellico and Picard," Ravvik ordered. "They've involved in a conspiracy against the Federation."
"On the contrary," Tuvok stated indifferently, "the evidence suggests that you are part of an on-going conspiracy to undermine the authority of the Federation."
"Cmdr. Worf, I'm giving you a direct order to arrest Tuvok and those officers!" Ravvik exclaimed.
Worf simply glared at him, then folded his arms defiantly.
Jellico gestured towards the warrant. "If you will do the honours, Captain Picard."
"The Maquis Inquiry is suspended indefinitely," Picard revealed. "The charges against Chakotay and Torres are dismissed. It seems you underestimated Capt. Janeway's political influence. I'd be careful if I were you, Ravvik. You may be taking orders from her sooner than you think." He tapped a data pad.
"By order of the Admiralty, I charge you with conspiracy against the Federation and treason," Picard glared at Ravvik. "The Judge Advocate will convene a general court-martial tomorrow, where you will have to explain why you summoned half of Starfleet's ships to Earth. Among other actions."
Jellico relished the stunned expression on the admiral's face. Ravvik didn't think his bluff would be called.
"I had hoped that you would recognize the dangers we are now facing," Ravvik pleaded. "The Federation is adrift with indecision. Paralyzed with petty arguments over concessions to the Romulans, the Klingons, the Cardassians. If we fail to act now, we will condemn the Federation to a bitter fate. Don't you see the logic of what the Cavalry Faction is trying to do?"
"You speak of logic," Picard glowered, "when you and your supporters bring Starfleet to the brink of civil war? You speak of dangers to the Federation, when you threaten to tear up treaties and armistices signed in good faith? There is nothing logical about your actions, however grandiose your goals. The Federation was not founded on conquest, but on compromise."
"Compromise?" Ravvik interrupted. "You would trade away Federation territories to our enemies, a piece at a time! When Federation citizens take up arms in the Badlands against Starfleet, it seems to me that the Federation must change. Or lose everything."
Picard stared coldly at Ravvik. "You would sacrifice the lives of Starfleet's men and women to defend the Federation, or destroy it? I cannot accept that Starfleet is so short-sighted that it cannot adjust to the political bumps it may find in the galaxy. If there is a danger to the Federation, it's your messianic zeal to reshape the galaxy as you see fit."
Jellico walked towards Riker. "Cmdr. Riker, your commission on the Enterprise is restored immediately. That was a gutsy scheme you had going. I knew I could count on you."
Riker seemed amused by the sudden turn in fortune. "You sure have a funny way of showing it, Admiral. For a moment, I thought you didn't trust me!"
"You're a fool, Jellico," Ravvik snarled. "This is a minor setback. You backed the wrong side. You've only delayed the inevitable. You chose to weaken Starfleet today. And the Federation will suffer the results of your cowardice for years to come!"
Jellico ignored the slight. "Admiral Ravvik, Cmdr. Worf and Cmdr. Tuvok will escort you to your suite in Admiral Hall. You will be confined to quarters until your court-martial. I strongly advise you to accept these conditions."
"And if I choose to resist?" Ravvik challenged.
"We'll slap binders on your wrists and have Mr. Worf drag you to the brig in disgrace," Picard growled. "You can leave this room as a Starfleet admiral, or as a common criminal. I won't ask you again."
Ravvik relented, then exited the room with Worf and Tuvok. "This is far from over, Jellico," the admiral sneered.
Jellico shook Chakotay and Torres' hands. "I believe we have some wrongs to right, eh, Riker?"
Riker beamed, then presented the rank insignia and comlinks of the Voyager shipmates. Picard smiled as he put the rank pips on the collars of Chakotay and Torres.
"Your commissions are restored," Picard stated, "Commander. Lieutenant. After seven years, you have earned the right to wear that uniform. Let no one tell you otherwise."
"Thank you, sir," Chakotay grinned. He shook Tuvok's hand. "I'm glad the inquiry business is behind me. I'll feel better once I'm back aboard the Voyager."
Torres seemed indifferent. "Still, this inquiry found us guilty. I'm glad we got our commissions back, but I had rather hoped we would be found innocent. No offense, Cmdr. Riker."
"None taken," Riker replied. "We passed this hurdle, but I think the Cavalry Faction won't simply vanish. Who knows how many Starfleet captains and Federation ambassadors subscribe to their warped vision of the galaxy?"
"Then we need to set the record straight," Jellico concluded. "I'm going to petition the Federation Council to restore the mandate of the Reconciliation Committee. Chakotay and Torres will have the opportunity to tell the Maquis' side of the Badlands crisis." Torres smiled. "That would be a good idea."
Over the next few days, the tensions surrounding Starfleet Command slowly faded. Some of Ravvik's conspirators were arrested - including three admirals, seven captains and a Federation ambassador. Starfleet Intelligence quietly investigated possible conspiracies in far-flung outposts of the galaxy. The courts-martial would likely continue for weeks.
Routine had returned to the Enterprise. The inquisitive Ensign Maxwell stopped asking uncomfortable questions about a rumoured purging in Starfleet's hierarchy. With little hard information on which to base their suspicions, the junior officers became convinced that the so-called "emergency" was just another exercise.
The senior officers encouraged that conclusion, since no one would have believed the truth. A mutiny at the highest levels of Starfleet? It was absurd.
Picard reviewed personnel files in his Ready Room. His cup of Earl Grey tea steamed on the table. His door chimed.
"Come," Picard announced.
Capt. Janeway beamed as she spotted Picard, who was settled comfortably in his chair.
"Captain Jean-Luc Picard," Janeway said, "for awhile there, Starfleet was beginning to believe that you were missing-in-action."
"Riker suggested that I keep a low profile," Picard grinned, "despite my insistence that I cut short my leave and come here immediately. It turns out he was right. I was able to use that time to convince my allies in Starfleet Command and strategic starbases to resist the Cavalry Faction's mutinous overtures. Ravvik would have arrested me, had I shown up sooner. Forgive my manners, would you like something to drink. Coffee, perhaps?"
"No, thank you," Janeway replied. "Duty calls. The Voyager will be disembarking soon: a neutral zone incursion by the Romulans. Though, oddly, the Admiralty wants me back in San Francisco as soon as we're done."
"Ravvik's allies now see you as a political heavyweight," Picard quipped, "Considering the events of the past few days, a summons from the Admiralty may not be as good as it sounds."
Janeway laughed. "Maybe so. Being the flavour-du-jour of Starfleet Command is not all it's cracked up to be. But seriously, I have something for you."
She placed a tiny disc on his desk. "Tuvok wanted to return the self- destruct codes to the Enterprise."
Picard held the disc. They were so close, he thought. So close to rebelling against what could have been an Admiralty dominated by militants. He wanted to believe that they had made the right choice. If Ravvik had gained the upper hand, they would surely be in the brig now.
It had to be done, he convinced himself. Ravvik was correct about one fact. The Federation was paralyzed by indecision. The Cavalry Faction's intoxicating message - an imperial Federation answerable to no planet, no alliance - would resonate with those in need of a unity of purpose.
"Keep the codes," Picard stated. "Ravvik may be powerless for now, but he still has many sympathizers in Starfleet. Perhaps aboard our own vessels."
"If that is what you wish, Capt. Picard," Janeway replied. "And what is the status of Project: Undertow?"
"Officially, we've disbanded Project: Undertow," Picard explained. "but unofficially, Jellico and his compatriots have suggested that we retain the concept -"
"- for future reference," Janeway concluded. "I understand."
Picard stood before his window and stared out into space. "So many years of war. Bloodshed. The Federation is weary. Bruised. I fear the Federation cannot sustain another intergalactic conflict."
"If Section 31 is indeed involved," Janeway feared, "we may have a conflict, whether we like it or not."
Picard sighed. "The Cavalry Faction isn't finished. Their dreams of flying the Federation banner throughout the galaxy, backed by armed garrisons, are seductive to many. They will regroup. We must be ready."
He sipped his tea. "And what of Cmdr. Chakotay and Lt. Torres? I'm told Col. Kira Nerys of Bajor is co-chairing the Reconciliation Committee."
"Chakotay is completing his testimony today," Janeway answered, "healing old wounds. Perhaps, in time, we can better understand the Badlands crisis."
Janeway knew that the Maquis Inquiry had torn open some raw emotional scars. Chakotay and Torres wanted to participate in the Reconciliation Committee. Their time in the Maquis was part of their identity. It could not be denied.
In a small room beside the Federation Council's grand assembly, Col. Nerys tapped a data pad.
"Please enter for the record, Commander, your account of the USS Vancouver incident," Kira stated.
Chakotay began to explain. "There was a Starfleet signature on the sensors: the Vancouver -" He stopped abruptly. The Maquis Inquiry had awoken some painful memories. Eight years had lessened the pain, but it never left him.
"Take your time, Commander," Kira replied.
"You don't have to be afraid," Torres added, "and you don't have to feel guilty. We took up arms with the Maquis because we had no other choice. We were defending our homes."
Chakotay continued his story. Before he became a Starfleet officer, he was a Maquis partisan - caught in a war of survival against a ruthless foe.
That was his identity then.
He would not deny it now.
THE END
Next tale in the weeks after Voyager's homecoming:
After completing an uneventful mission in the neutral zone, the Voyager has two unexpected visitors. Capt. Picard brings news from Earth. Have his worst fears materialized? Neither captain, however, expected Q to enter the fray - as Starfleet teeters towards open mutiny. The last thing they need is an omnipotent being taking sides.
Something had to be done to solidify their resistance and force the Federation to recognize their grievances. Some Maquis cells were already considering sabotage against the Federation to draw attention to their views. Chakotay momentarily awoke from his long-suppressed memories from that era.
"Please tell us about the events leading up to the USS Vancouver incident," Cmdr. Riker requested.
When he began his testimony, Chakotay mind drifted again. He recalled that there was a flurry of activity in camp when one of their subspace sensors picked up a vessel with a Starfleet signature.
Eight years. It was a lifetime ago, it seemed.
"Is it a starship?" Chakotay had asked.
"No," one of his subordinates answered. "It's a science vessel. The Vancouver."
A few feet away, Torres and a dozen partisans were collecting supplies and phaser rifles.
"Science vessel or not," Torres began, "we should at least have a look."
Chakotay turned to his new recruit, Strickland. Once a Starfleet lieutenant who had been decorated as one of the few survivors of Wolf 359, Strickland had left behind his career to begin a new life in the Badlands.
Strickland seemed loyal enough. Quick-thinking. Handy with a phaser. Not afraid to crawl under a shuttle to make unorthodox repairs. Willing to serve the cause.
Chakotay wanted to trust him. After all, he was dedicated to preserving the Federation settlements at any cost. But Strickland seemed a bit too enthusiastic about fighting. "I'll take one of the smaller mining vessels," Strickland offered. "Have a look-see."
Torres sensed Chakotay's uneasiness. "I'll co-pilot," she offered. Maybe I can keep an eye on our gung-ho friend, she thought.
Another partisan sprinted towards the camp. "There's a platoon of Cardassian soldiers. About half a kilometre northeast. Sniffing around for our camp, no doubt."
"Liquidate them," Chakotay ordered tersely. Years of fighting and Cardassian barbarity had numbed him from any remorse. It was war, nothing more. "No prisoners." Cardassia had showed no mercy to the Maquis they had captured. He intended to extend that same courtesy to these interlopers.
"B'Elanna, take about two dozen Maquis with you," Chakotay decided. "Make it quick and clean. Take their weapons and comlinks when you're finished."
"How about the Vancouver?" Torres wondered. She felt uneasy letting this Strickland out on a scouting mission.
Chakotay tried to forget his nagging suspicions about Strickland. The Maquis needed to be united now, or their cause was lost. "I think Strickland has earned his stripes," Chakotay replied. "It's just a look- see. Anyhow, the sensors say it's only a science vessel. Minimal armaments. I don't expect trouble."
Chakotay told the inquiry that he left the camp shortly after. On his way to town, he heard the phaser fight. The screams. He was used to them. Torres was a capable field commander. No Cardassian in that platoon would live to report their location.
It was later that evening that he learned about the explosion aboard the USS Vancouver.
"Commander?" Riker whispered. Chakotay blinked. He was back in the antiseptic hearing room at Starfleet Intelligence. The Maquis Inquiry.
"So, are you telling this inquiry that you knew nothing about the sabotage of the Vancouver?" Admiral Ravvik demanded.
"That's correct," Chakotay insisted. "I agreed that Strickland should have a look-see."
"Look-see?" another commissioner asked. "Is that some sort of Maquis code phrase for sabotage?"
"No," Torres interrupted, "it means Strickland went to have a look at the Vancouver . and see what it was doing in the Badlands."
"Here is the dilemma," Ravvik analyzed. "Strickland was given an order to spy on the Vancouver, which had every right to be there since the territory was in Federation space. His action, by its very nature, implies a malicious intent."
Chakotay sighed impatiently. "The Federation had refused to include our representatives at the eventual armistice. They were handing over our homes piecemeal! We felt abandoned by Starfleet, as Cardassians pillaged the outer settlements. If you want me to say that I saw Starfleet's actions as a threat to our existence, you're damn right I did . at the time."
"The Maquis leadership were under intense pressure to act," Riker added. "They were torn between complying with the Federation's wishes to evacuate the ceded outposts, or continuing what could be classified as a legitimate uprising against Cardassia. We've long known about Cardassian violations in Federation territories. The Maquis were defending their homes."
Ravvik shook his head at the reply. "The term, Commander, is rebellion. They were rebelling against the rightful authority: the Federation."
"Please continue, Cmdr. Riker, your argument" one of the commissioners grumbled, "that neither of your clients are responsible for the destruction of the USS Vancouver."
As Riker explained the emerging rift in the Maquis movement, Chakotay's mind wandered once more beyond Sector 001. Eight years ago . when he was fighting a losing battle.
Chakotay had just returned to the Maquis camp. He wanted to know about the explosion in space. Torres was already there, with dozens of Cardassian rifles, gear and comlinks. Their hunt was successful.
Strickland stumbled into the camp, with a bright red gash on his forehead. Dozens more returned from the front.
"What the hell happened up there?" Torres exclaimed. "Where's the Vancouver?"
"I - we . it's destroyed," Strickland blurted, as he pressed a cloth against his cut.
"How?" Chakotay grabbed Strickland by the shoulders and shook him. "If you destroyed it, we'll have half the fleet swarming the Badlands by the end of the week!"
"That was no science vessel!" Strickland declared. "We tapped their subspace communications. They had hundreds of security agents aboard! They were going to sabotage our generators. I tried to slip away, but they spotted me."
"I told you to see what they're up to," Chakotay argued, "The last thing we need is to pick a fight with Starfleet!"
"They fired on me first!" Strickland insisted, as he clutched his throbbing cut.
"Starfleet fired on you, without provocation?" Torres asked. A crowd of Maquis partisans gathered around. Some began to bicker.
"We - we had configured a makeshift sensor array to make it look like we were only surveying minerals," Strickland continued. "The Vancouver picked up our sensors and fired a shot at our port! We shut down our sensors, and the next thing I saw was this sickening bluish glow."
"Please, tell me you didn't fire a shot at them," Chakotay hoped. Strickland caught his breath. "I was too busy trying to get out of their range. For a science vessel, they seemed to be packing some heavy artillery."
Chakotay tried to appease his squabbling unit, but it was too late. They were truly alone, now that the Federation's actions effectively declared their movement as rebellious.
Over the next few days, a debate raged throughout the Maquis movement. The militants wanted to begin attacks on Federation vessels to force their way to the negotiating table. Chakotay, Torres and the moderates wanted to refrain from starting a shooting war with Starfleet. The Maquis never regained their cohesion after the schism. Within weeks, Cardassian forces overran several Federation outposts - conveniently, days before the final armistice negotiations.
The Maquis dismantled their camps and retreated to those outposts still loyal to their cause. Starfleet had already sent two starships to supervise the evacuation of Federation settlers. Strickland and the militants continued their own fight, at the cost of many lives. Chakotay heard rumours about a major skirmish close to the Cardassian frontier. By then, he and Torres were fleeting a Federation pursuit vessel called the Voyager.
Chakotay and Torres would only learn recently that most of their comrades- in-arms died, their dreams shattered forever. Federation neglect and Cardassian conquests had sealed their fate.
The beep of a data pad brought Chakotay back to the present. Riker had just completed his version of the destruction of the USS Vancouver.
"They fired no shots," Riker concluded, "but they were fired upon. The Vancouver was not designed to be a warship. It was modified far beyond its capacity. If there's any blame, it falls upon the engineers who hastily cobbled together a warship because Starfleet Security ordered them to do it."
"A touching story, Cmdr. Riker," Ravvik noted, "had the Maquis directed their actions against the Cardassians alone. Whey they spy on Starfleet vessels and defy the wishes of the Federation, they chose to abandon their loyalties. By ordering Strickland to commit an act of espionage, Chakotay and his subordinates set a course of events in motion that caused the destruction of the USS Vancouver and the loss of 200 lives."
Ravvik stood up, glaring at the defendants' table. "The forcing of political action through violence. Is that not the definition of terrorism? The Maquis' raison d'etre was violent opposition."
He pointed accusingly at Chakotay. "You and your leaders chose violence over political discourse. Revenge over reason. Your assault on the Vancouver was not an act of self-defence, but of murder. We have heard nothing to convince us that your actions were not based on malice. Do you think roaming the Delta Quadrant for seven years absolves you of your past crimes? I assure you, it does not!"
He glanced at his commissioners. "This inquiry will give you our verdict within the hour."
When the commissioners left, Chakotay extended his hand towards Riker. "Thank you, Commander."
"For what?" Riker groaned. "They rejected my arguments at every turn, refused potential witnesses, concealed crucial logs from the Admiralty . to what end? They intend to drag your names through the mud to silence their detractors, while they take credit for protecting the Federation's interests."
Chakotay settled into his chair. "When you were making your arguments, it got me to think about what we were fighting for in the Badlands. One could argue that the Maquis were the most fiercely loyal to the Federation's interests. We fought because the powers-that-be had begun to lose faith in its values. As bad as it seems now, I refuse to believe the Federation has become so rotten to the core that it can't be saved."
"Haven't you heard a word Cmdr. Riker said?" Torres wondered. "This kangaroo court is going to convict us of treason. I, for one, am not looking forward to prison life on Europa!"
"I would rather lose my career defending the values of the Federation," Chakotay insisted, "than keep my rank as one of Ravvik's toadies. We made tremendous sacrifices for the Maquis cause. This is a time for sacrifice. Our predicament might force others in Starfleet to wake up to what's going on behind closed doors. We're up against the ropes, but we haven't been knocked out yet."
Riker patted Torres' shoulder. "We're doing everything we can to get both of you out of this mess. I'm not going to allow those militants in the Admiralty ruin the careers of two fine Starfleet officers. Have faith, Lt. Torres. Your shipmates haven't given up. And neither have I."
As they left the Starfleet Intelligence compound, Riker stopped on the path. "I have been in contact with the Voyager and the Enterprise. I want you to know there are people in the Admiralty working on our behalf."
"Lemme guess," Chakotay replied, "the crisis in the Admiralty is coming to a head."
"I can't divulge any more," Riker revealed, "but you can be sure that you won't spend a day behind bars."
Chakotay and Torres traded bewildered glances.
"I'll see you two in an hour for the verdict," Riker noted. "I'm expecting an update on the Federation Council's emergency session."
Riker left the Voyager crewmates confused by his secretive behaviour. What exactly were their friends aboard the Voyager and the Enterprise planning?
Riker returned to Admiral Hall to retrieve the latest news from the Federation Council.
And a classified update about Project: Undertow. It was 1130 hours. Half of the fleet was still in orbit.
High above the planet, the Enterprise crew continued to perform routine drills, upgrades and exercises. Only the bridge crew (and select officers from the USS Voyager) knew that 1200 hours would be a time of decision.
A decision Acting Captain Data would have to make.
Tuvok found the android alone in Holodeck 3. The setting seemed cold and damp.
"Is this a castle, Captain?" Tuvok inquired. Torch lamps burned along the walls. Gothic arched windows soared to the heavens. In the distance, he could hear singing in Latin.
"A French monastery, circa 1500 AD," Data replied, "Navarre, France to be exact."
"The birthplace of Capt. Picard," Tuvok noted.
As Data walked towards him, his footsteps echoed on the stone floor.
"I had hoped that it would be easier to form a decision in a quiet place," Data offered.
Tuvok studied a wooden lectern, sifting through the Renaissance-era manuscripts. "Capt. Janeway made her motion to the Federation Council this morning. They are deliberating at this moment whether or not to suspend the Maquis Inquiry."
He noticed that Data seemed troubled - if it was possible for an artificial being to have such a feeling.
"If I were to launch Phase II of Project: Undertow," Data began, "how would you see the next 12-24 hours unfold?"
Tuvok considered the question carefully. "If Capt. Janeway fails to win over the Council, we would lack the political clout to resist the Cavalry Faction for long. They would likely brand us as traitors and arrest us. Our supporters would not settle for that outcome. I expect that they would take up arms to defend us."
"Then our actions could risk a much larger civil war," Data feared, "as Federation members allied themselves with one faction or another. Cmdr. Riker assures me that Capt. Picard is aware of the crisis in the Admiralty, but he would not elaborate further. I would have liked to hear the captain's advice."
"As would I," Tuvok agreed. He listened to the chants of the monks. "I can see why you chose a monastery to weigh your options. I have every confidence that you will make the right choice. Not only for my shipmates, but for Starfleet."
"Thank you, Commander," Data replied. If 50% of the fleet remained in Sector 001 after 1200 hours, that would mean they are defying a direct order from the Admiralty. It would signal that the Cavalry Faction had usurped Starfleet's authority. Admiral Ravvik and his followers could take control of Starfleet and bend the Federation to its will. The treaties with the Klingons, Romulans and Cardassians would likely fall to dust, as the war hawks in Starfleet expanded the Federation beyond their current frontiers.
That is not the Federation I want, Data thought. He had studied the histories of many civilizations over the past few hours. Sometimes, a cataclysmic event was required to promote change. Did the Federation need a war to renew itself?
The alternative was to accept Ravvik's ascension as a de facto military governor, lording over an indecisive and weakened Federation Council. That would plunge the Federation into galactic chaos.
"We cannot simply allow Admiral Ravvik and his cohort seize control of Starfleet Command," Data concluded. "The actions of militant elements at Starfleet Command - and the risk of Section 31 involvement - constitute a clear and present danger to the sovereignty of the Federation. If the fleet has not dispersed from Sector 001 by 1201 p.m. Pacific Standard Time, you are authorized to begin Phase II. I will return The Doctor to you at that time."
"I understand, Captain," Tuvok nodded. He walked over to the holodeck control panel and checked the chronometer.
"It is 10 minutes to 12," Tuvok announced. "My crew should return to the Voyager to prepare for Phase II."
"You have your orders," Data replied. "I wish you success on your mission." He blew out a candle on a desk. Dark shadows enveloped the study hall.
Tuvok paused before he left the holodeck. "I expect to see the Enterprise at the Mars rendezvous at 1800 hours."
Data smirked slightly. "I, too, will expect to see Capt. Janeway and your crew there. Good luck, Commander."
As the noon-hour approached, the members of Project: Undertow prepared the unthinkable:
An insurrection against Starfleet itself.
Lt. Paris and dozens of security officers from both the Voyager and the Enterprise armed themselves with phaser rifles. Neelix watched nervously as the officers marched towards Voyager Cargo Bay 7. In minutes, they would be beamed into Starfleet Security's fortress-like compound. They were expected to thwart the Cavalry Faction's countermeasures and rescue ranking officers of the Diplomat Faction.
Dr. Crusher had surgically masked Seven's Borg implants. She looked human. Cmdr. Worf had already provided her with civilian clothing. She would be beamed directly to San Francisco. There, she would await instructions from Worf.
Cmdr. Laforge gave Ensign Kim a few last-minute instructions, then escorted him to Transporter Room 2. They waited for 1200 hours. Once aboard the Voyager, Kim would try to scramble the fleet's communications - in the event Ravvik's allies were seizing control of the fleet.
A sense of inevitably had fallen upon the parties to this conspiracy. Phase II of Project: Undertow would begin. And it could lead to war.
How it would end was anybody's guess.
On the bridge of the Enterprise, Data stood up from the captain's chair.
"Ensign Maxwell," Data inquired, "have you seen any movement from the fleet? Is there any indication that they are leaving Earth's orbit?"
"None, sir," Maxwell stated. "They're either on stand-by, or already in dock."
The Doctor, seated to Data's left, glanced nervously at him.
Data stood up. "Computer, Red Alert." Alarms rang as red lights pulsed throughout the ship.
It was 1200 hours and the fleet had not moved.
"This is the captain," he announced to his crew, "All hands on deck. This is not a drill."
Ensign Maxwell gulped. She had been aboard the Enterprise for six months and had seen no action. I knew it, she thought to herself. The Cardassians did break the armistice!
"Ensign Maxwell," Data continued, "Stand by."
The Doctor looked at the magnified view of the fleet. Still no movement. Could so many ships be under Ravvik's control? Nothing was certain.
Data studied the main viewscreen for a moment, then sat in the captain's chair again.
"This will be my last order to you, Doctor," Data stated, "After you transmit the order to project members, you will be returned to the Voyager."
"Understood," The Doctor nodded.
Data paused, certain that there would be no second chances after he gave The Doctor the order that would launch Phase II.
"Doctor, please transmit the code word to Cmdr. Worf and Lt. Paris," Data stated. Now it begins.
"Aye, aye, sir," The Doctor replied.
The Doctor walked to the communications station to the rear. He tapped a panel.
"Worf standing by," the Klingon's voice declared over the intercom.
"Lt. Paris standing by," Paris announced. "Do you have the code word, Doc?"
The Doctor looked towards Data, hoping in vain that he would not be asked to condemn his shipmates to an uncertain fate.
Data nodded. "Please transmit the code word."
The Doctor began to mouth the word, which would immediately set in motion a chain reaction that could not be stopped.
So much for my dreams of joining the Academy's medical faculty, he groaned to himself. He heard the turbolift door open.
A hand covered his mouth before he could utter the word.
"Belay that order, Doctor," a voice announced from the rear.
"Captain Picard!" Data seemed surprised.
Picard let out a sigh of relief. "Thank goodness I was able to contact Cmdr. Riker in time. When he notified me about your little project, I must admit I found it to be quite unorthodox. But with all due respect, Data, I'd like my ship back."
Data smirked slightly. "Computer. Transfer all command codes to Captain Picard. Authorization: Data, Epsilon 0237."
"Recognize Picard, Jean-Luc as Captain of the USS Enterprise," the computer answered.
"You are relieved, Commander," Picard smiled.
"I stand relieved, Captain," Data stated.
"But over half the fleet defying a direct order from Starfleet!" The Doctor babbled. "We're on the verge of a mutiny!"
"A mutiny?" Ensign Maxwell gasped. "What exactly is going on, sir?"
Picard tried to soothe the fears of the bridge crew. "The Federation Council has voted minutes ago to suspend the proceedings of the Maquis Inquiry for the foreseeable future. Capt. Janeway made quite a convincing presentation, I'm told."
"But the fleet --," The Doctor muttered.
"Captain!" Ensign Maxwell announced, as she scanned the main viewscreen. "The fleet is dispersing! They're either leaving the docks or reversing course!"
Starships of every size and shape zoomed away from Earth's atmosphere or departed Sector 001 altogether.
Data checked his internal chronometer. 1203 hours. A few minutes late, he thought, but the fleet chose not to play the kingmaker's role for Admiral Ravvik and the Cavalry Faction.
This time.
"Doctor, Data, in my Ready Room," Picard stated. He waited until the doors closed behind them.
"Data, please inform project members from the Voyager and the Enterprise to remain on stand-by until further notice," Picard ordered. "We're not quite out of the woods yet."
"Sir?" Data wondered.
"Have Mr. Worf and a security detail meet me at the Starfleet Intelligence compound," Picard continued. "I have orders of my own to carry out. Some unfinished business with Admiral Ravvik."
"Shall I return to Voyager, then?" The Doctor wondered.
Picard paused in front of him. "Not yet. If Ravvik has plans of his own, I may yet ask you to - as William Shakespeare so eloquently wrote in Julius Caesar - 'cry havoc and let slip the dogs of war'. Let's hope it doesn't come to that."
"Yes, sir," The Doctor beamed.
"Data, you have the bridge," Picard stated, as he entered the turbolift. "Beam me and the security detail directly to Starfleet Intelligence."
Within minutes, Picard, Worf and a dozen security officers materialized in front of the inquiry hearing room. Admiral Jellico and Cmdr. Tuvok were already there.
"Admiral Jellico?" Picard inquired, while trading curious glances with Worf. "You were Riker's contact in the Admiralty?"
Jellico shook his head. "Yes I am. When I learned that Riker was serving as an advocate at the Inquiry, I needed to be sure he wasn't serving the Cavalry's interests. Cmdr. Tuvok tells me we nearly averted an open rebellion at Starfleet Command."
"Much too close for comfort, sir," Picard replied. "If the fleet didn't disperse as ordered, we may very well have found ourselves in the middle of an insurrection. I received a special warrant from the Admiralty, though I haven't been able to review it."
"Don't open it yet, Picard," Jellico exclaimed. "I want to see Ravvik's face when you read the charges. He's had it coming for quite some time."
Jellico glanced at Worf and the dozen security officers. "Have Worf accompany you, but I think you can leave your security detail outside for now. It's an arrest, not the Alamo."
"Agreed, Admiral," Picard replied, "but I would prefer that we're ready for any situation. Ravvik may still have some surprises for us. If you don't mind me asking, why are you here?"
"In the event Ravvik's conspirators intercepted you in France," Jellico explained, "I would have arrested that scheming Vulcan myself. Now that you've robbed me of that privilege, I'm merely here to ensure that he doesn't try to pull rank on you."
In the hearing room, Ravvik was delivering the final verdict.
"On the charges of conspiracy against the Federation, sabotage and treason," Ravvik announced with great ceremony, "this inquiry finds the defendants guilty on all counts. On the multiple charges of murder concerning the crew of the USS Vancouver, we find the defendants guilty."
Then, the doors slid open. "I beg to differ, Admiral Ravvik," Jellico sneered.
Ravvik turned towards him. He saw Jellico, Tuvok, Picard and Worf standing behind the defendants.
"Cmdr. Tuvok, arrest Jellico and Picard," Ravvik ordered. "They've involved in a conspiracy against the Federation."
"On the contrary," Tuvok stated indifferently, "the evidence suggests that you are part of an on-going conspiracy to undermine the authority of the Federation."
"Cmdr. Worf, I'm giving you a direct order to arrest Tuvok and those officers!" Ravvik exclaimed.
Worf simply glared at him, then folded his arms defiantly.
Jellico gestured towards the warrant. "If you will do the honours, Captain Picard."
"The Maquis Inquiry is suspended indefinitely," Picard revealed. "The charges against Chakotay and Torres are dismissed. It seems you underestimated Capt. Janeway's political influence. I'd be careful if I were you, Ravvik. You may be taking orders from her sooner than you think." He tapped a data pad.
"By order of the Admiralty, I charge you with conspiracy against the Federation and treason," Picard glared at Ravvik. "The Judge Advocate will convene a general court-martial tomorrow, where you will have to explain why you summoned half of Starfleet's ships to Earth. Among other actions."
Jellico relished the stunned expression on the admiral's face. Ravvik didn't think his bluff would be called.
"I had hoped that you would recognize the dangers we are now facing," Ravvik pleaded. "The Federation is adrift with indecision. Paralyzed with petty arguments over concessions to the Romulans, the Klingons, the Cardassians. If we fail to act now, we will condemn the Federation to a bitter fate. Don't you see the logic of what the Cavalry Faction is trying to do?"
"You speak of logic," Picard glowered, "when you and your supporters bring Starfleet to the brink of civil war? You speak of dangers to the Federation, when you threaten to tear up treaties and armistices signed in good faith? There is nothing logical about your actions, however grandiose your goals. The Federation was not founded on conquest, but on compromise."
"Compromise?" Ravvik interrupted. "You would trade away Federation territories to our enemies, a piece at a time! When Federation citizens take up arms in the Badlands against Starfleet, it seems to me that the Federation must change. Or lose everything."
Picard stared coldly at Ravvik. "You would sacrifice the lives of Starfleet's men and women to defend the Federation, or destroy it? I cannot accept that Starfleet is so short-sighted that it cannot adjust to the political bumps it may find in the galaxy. If there is a danger to the Federation, it's your messianic zeal to reshape the galaxy as you see fit."
Jellico walked towards Riker. "Cmdr. Riker, your commission on the Enterprise is restored immediately. That was a gutsy scheme you had going. I knew I could count on you."
Riker seemed amused by the sudden turn in fortune. "You sure have a funny way of showing it, Admiral. For a moment, I thought you didn't trust me!"
"You're a fool, Jellico," Ravvik snarled. "This is a minor setback. You backed the wrong side. You've only delayed the inevitable. You chose to weaken Starfleet today. And the Federation will suffer the results of your cowardice for years to come!"
Jellico ignored the slight. "Admiral Ravvik, Cmdr. Worf and Cmdr. Tuvok will escort you to your suite in Admiral Hall. You will be confined to quarters until your court-martial. I strongly advise you to accept these conditions."
"And if I choose to resist?" Ravvik challenged.
"We'll slap binders on your wrists and have Mr. Worf drag you to the brig in disgrace," Picard growled. "You can leave this room as a Starfleet admiral, or as a common criminal. I won't ask you again."
Ravvik relented, then exited the room with Worf and Tuvok. "This is far from over, Jellico," the admiral sneered.
Jellico shook Chakotay and Torres' hands. "I believe we have some wrongs to right, eh, Riker?"
Riker beamed, then presented the rank insignia and comlinks of the Voyager shipmates. Picard smiled as he put the rank pips on the collars of Chakotay and Torres.
"Your commissions are restored," Picard stated, "Commander. Lieutenant. After seven years, you have earned the right to wear that uniform. Let no one tell you otherwise."
"Thank you, sir," Chakotay grinned. He shook Tuvok's hand. "I'm glad the inquiry business is behind me. I'll feel better once I'm back aboard the Voyager."
Torres seemed indifferent. "Still, this inquiry found us guilty. I'm glad we got our commissions back, but I had rather hoped we would be found innocent. No offense, Cmdr. Riker."
"None taken," Riker replied. "We passed this hurdle, but I think the Cavalry Faction won't simply vanish. Who knows how many Starfleet captains and Federation ambassadors subscribe to their warped vision of the galaxy?"
"Then we need to set the record straight," Jellico concluded. "I'm going to petition the Federation Council to restore the mandate of the Reconciliation Committee. Chakotay and Torres will have the opportunity to tell the Maquis' side of the Badlands crisis." Torres smiled. "That would be a good idea."
Over the next few days, the tensions surrounding Starfleet Command slowly faded. Some of Ravvik's conspirators were arrested - including three admirals, seven captains and a Federation ambassador. Starfleet Intelligence quietly investigated possible conspiracies in far-flung outposts of the galaxy. The courts-martial would likely continue for weeks.
Routine had returned to the Enterprise. The inquisitive Ensign Maxwell stopped asking uncomfortable questions about a rumoured purging in Starfleet's hierarchy. With little hard information on which to base their suspicions, the junior officers became convinced that the so-called "emergency" was just another exercise.
The senior officers encouraged that conclusion, since no one would have believed the truth. A mutiny at the highest levels of Starfleet? It was absurd.
Picard reviewed personnel files in his Ready Room. His cup of Earl Grey tea steamed on the table. His door chimed.
"Come," Picard announced.
Capt. Janeway beamed as she spotted Picard, who was settled comfortably in his chair.
"Captain Jean-Luc Picard," Janeway said, "for awhile there, Starfleet was beginning to believe that you were missing-in-action."
"Riker suggested that I keep a low profile," Picard grinned, "despite my insistence that I cut short my leave and come here immediately. It turns out he was right. I was able to use that time to convince my allies in Starfleet Command and strategic starbases to resist the Cavalry Faction's mutinous overtures. Ravvik would have arrested me, had I shown up sooner. Forgive my manners, would you like something to drink. Coffee, perhaps?"
"No, thank you," Janeway replied. "Duty calls. The Voyager will be disembarking soon: a neutral zone incursion by the Romulans. Though, oddly, the Admiralty wants me back in San Francisco as soon as we're done."
"Ravvik's allies now see you as a political heavyweight," Picard quipped, "Considering the events of the past few days, a summons from the Admiralty may not be as good as it sounds."
Janeway laughed. "Maybe so. Being the flavour-du-jour of Starfleet Command is not all it's cracked up to be. But seriously, I have something for you."
She placed a tiny disc on his desk. "Tuvok wanted to return the self- destruct codes to the Enterprise."
Picard held the disc. They were so close, he thought. So close to rebelling against what could have been an Admiralty dominated by militants. He wanted to believe that they had made the right choice. If Ravvik had gained the upper hand, they would surely be in the brig now.
It had to be done, he convinced himself. Ravvik was correct about one fact. The Federation was paralyzed by indecision. The Cavalry Faction's intoxicating message - an imperial Federation answerable to no planet, no alliance - would resonate with those in need of a unity of purpose.
"Keep the codes," Picard stated. "Ravvik may be powerless for now, but he still has many sympathizers in Starfleet. Perhaps aboard our own vessels."
"If that is what you wish, Capt. Picard," Janeway replied. "And what is the status of Project: Undertow?"
"Officially, we've disbanded Project: Undertow," Picard explained. "but unofficially, Jellico and his compatriots have suggested that we retain the concept -"
"- for future reference," Janeway concluded. "I understand."
Picard stood before his window and stared out into space. "So many years of war. Bloodshed. The Federation is weary. Bruised. I fear the Federation cannot sustain another intergalactic conflict."
"If Section 31 is indeed involved," Janeway feared, "we may have a conflict, whether we like it or not."
Picard sighed. "The Cavalry Faction isn't finished. Their dreams of flying the Federation banner throughout the galaxy, backed by armed garrisons, are seductive to many. They will regroup. We must be ready."
He sipped his tea. "And what of Cmdr. Chakotay and Lt. Torres? I'm told Col. Kira Nerys of Bajor is co-chairing the Reconciliation Committee."
"Chakotay is completing his testimony today," Janeway answered, "healing old wounds. Perhaps, in time, we can better understand the Badlands crisis."
Janeway knew that the Maquis Inquiry had torn open some raw emotional scars. Chakotay and Torres wanted to participate in the Reconciliation Committee. Their time in the Maquis was part of their identity. It could not be denied.
In a small room beside the Federation Council's grand assembly, Col. Nerys tapped a data pad.
"Please enter for the record, Commander, your account of the USS Vancouver incident," Kira stated.
Chakotay began to explain. "There was a Starfleet signature on the sensors: the Vancouver -" He stopped abruptly. The Maquis Inquiry had awoken some painful memories. Eight years had lessened the pain, but it never left him.
"Take your time, Commander," Kira replied.
"You don't have to be afraid," Torres added, "and you don't have to feel guilty. We took up arms with the Maquis because we had no other choice. We were defending our homes."
Chakotay continued his story. Before he became a Starfleet officer, he was a Maquis partisan - caught in a war of survival against a ruthless foe.
That was his identity then.
He would not deny it now.
THE END
Next tale in the weeks after Voyager's homecoming:
After completing an uneventful mission in the neutral zone, the Voyager has two unexpected visitors. Capt. Picard brings news from Earth. Have his worst fears materialized? Neither captain, however, expected Q to enter the fray - as Starfleet teeters towards open mutiny. The last thing they need is an omnipotent being taking sides.