Chapter 5
Captain's log; stardate 58078.4: The Orion is ready to depart for Romulus. This heading will take us not only into the Neutral Zone but indeed across it into Romulan space.
I always knew that my Starfleet career might take me out of Federation space. But I imagined it would be exploring the Gamma Quadrant through the Bajoran wormhole or a deep space run in the Beta Quadrant. A trip to Romulus had never entered my mind.
"All modifications have been made. The remaining odds and ends can be completed on route," said Alivia's voice over the comm system.
"Thank you, Commander," said Lindsey. "Admiral, your flagship is ready for departure." Lindsey found it a bit nerve racking playing the role of first officer as she sat on the Admiral's right. She had little experience in the role as she had skipped it for the captain's chair. Of course, the real reason her nerves were racked was the Orion's new heading.
Henry added his report to Lindsey's. "The Lakota and the Hercules also report they are ready to go. And the Resistant and the Courageous report that they are ready."
"Order the Resistant and the Courageous to head for their stand by positions," said Adm. Janeway.
Capt. Shelby moved with a bit of discomfort as she sat on the Admiral's left. She had taken Henry's seat, leaving him to stand up above the bridge railing. Her task was to be an advisor to Adm. Janeway. She was willing to do her duty, but Lindsey could tell that she did not enjoy being taken off her ship. "I can assure you, Admiral, if you call the Resistant will come running," was all the other captain said.
"Thank you, Captain." Janeway spoke to Henry. "Commander, signal the Lakota and the Hercules and order them to accompany us into Romulan territory."
"Yes, Admiral," replied Henry with a slight shudder. Lindsey too shuddered at hearing the words 'Romulan territory.' As Henry issued orders to the other ships, Lindsey looked at the viewscreen as though it was a window. She spotted the star that she had long ago learned to be the star in which Romulus orbited. Lindsey could tell that Henry was looking down at her from his position from above, but Lindsey was determined to maintain her poker face. She sat calmly, looking forward.
"Navigation, lay in a course for Romulus, warp 7," ordered Janeway. "Engage."
For a couple of hours, the bridge was eerily quiet. The only sounds were the beeps and signals from the consoles and the occasional reports from the bridge crew. The silence was finally broken by Lt. Johnathan Mikkelson, the navigator. "Admiral, we are two minutes from entering the Romulan Neutral Zone."
"Continue course and speed. We will slow down as we cross into the Neutral Zone," answered Adm. Janeway. "We don't want to startle any Romulan patrol ships." Lindsey couldn't prevent herself from shuttering. Janeway apparently noticed. "You seem nervous, Commander."
"I am, Admiral."
"May I ask why?"
Lindsey turned towards Henry, who had come down and was now standing near the navigator's seat. "Cmdr. Hickensen, what is rule number one when patrolling the Federation-Romulan border?"
"Do not enter the Neutral Zone," answered Henry.
Lindsey returned her gaze to Janeway. "We have been here for two years, Admiral. We have been practically programed to avoid entering the Neutral Zone at nearly all costs. And now we are not only entering it, but also crossing it into Romulan space. That is enough to make me nervous."
"I see," said Janeway. "Nervous because of the break of habit, or nervous because you fear a negative Romulan reaction?"
"Both," answered Lindsey. "I do not believe that this whole Borg thing is a ruse or a trap on the part of the Romulans. But," Lindsey continued. "The Romulans are hardly unified. Who knows whether the Tal Shiar, the warhawks, or even an independent minded warbird commander might consider a greater threat: us or the Borg?"
"Perhaps there's a colonel with an itchy trigger finger?" added Janeway.
Lindsey tighten her fists, "Perhaps. Forgive me, Admiral. I would rather not think of the man who attacked my ship and its crew twice. He is in a Federation prison and behind me. I would like to keep my focus ahead of me."
"Keeping our focus in front of us would be good," said Janeway. "Sensor Chief, is there any indication of Romulan activity in the Neutral Zone?"
"No, Admiral," replied Chief Petty Officer Shelton. "However, our anti-cloak sensors are two years old. We don't know whether or not the Romulans have improved their cloaking technology since then." Lindsey was proud of the young man. Two years ago, he was a skittish and timid man who practically feared his superiors. Now he could confidently address an admiral. Of course, becoming friends with the Orion's resident Klingon may have helped his confidence.
"Thank you, Sensor Chief. Continue forward scans and inform me of any Romulan activity or anything out of the ordinary."
"Thirty seconds until we reach the Neutral Zone," reported Johnathan.
"Slow to warp 5, and proceed into the Neutral Zone," ordered Janeway.
"Slowing to warp 5 and maintaining heading," said Ryan from the helm.
Lindsey mentally counted the seconds. Confirming her timing, Johnathan spoke just as she was about to reach five. "Entering the Neutral Zone in five, four, three, two, one. We have officially left Federation Space and entered the Romulan Neutral Zone."
Lindsey gripped her armrests.
"Come on, Doc, you can't bench me."
"Yes, I can, Lieutenant," said Dr. Thomas Randel. "You are three weeks from your due date. I am not going to allow you to return to duty at this time, both for your sake and for your child's sake."
"But we are entering Romulan Space. The Orion will need all its officers," replied the pregnant Lt. Selina Chaput-Mikkelson.
"Believe it or not, Lieutenant, the Orion can function without you. And the fact that we are in dangerous territory only convinces me more of the need to pull you from active duty. If it is any consolation, your husband declined to take paternity leave in order to remain on duty."
"Johnathan gets to stay on the bridge, and I don't. Thanks, Doc, but that does not make me feel better. Your bedside manner is slipping, Doc."
"Bedside manner is always hardest when delivering bad news," answered Dr. Randel. "Although usually the bad news is a bad medical diagnosis, not time off. But if you don't like my bedside manner, I can always activate the Emergence Medical Hologram."
"No thank you, Doctor. The EMH can stay where he is."
"He's not so bad. Although he would have benched you about three weeks ago. You should be grateful that I let you stay on active duty for as long as I did."
"On light duty," countered Selina. But with a sigh of resignation she added, "I do appreciate it, Doctor." Then with a crooked smile she said, "You know that I could ask the Captain to allow me to serve."
Dr. Randel laughed. "Go over my head? That won't do you much good. Captains don't make a habit of over ruling their chief medical officers. And more importantly, I have been a friend of the Captain's for longer that you have."
"You got me there, Doc."
"That I do. You are go to go, Lieutenant."
"Go where?" asked Selina. "I can't go to work."
"How about your quarters, or the Orion's Club. Relax, Lieutenant. That's an order."
"Yes, sir."
Dr. Randel watched as Selina slid off the examining bed and walked out of sick bay. He could hardly wrap his mind around the image of her as a mother.
Dr. Randel was the oldest of the Orion's Senior officers, except for T'Sel. Unlike the new Vulcan science officer Dr. Randel had served on this ship since its launch and before that on board the previous Orion since Capt. Taylor took command. Dr. Randel had seen the entire career of many of the officers on board this ship. He remembered a young Ensign Lander when she had first come on board the old Orion, fresh from the Academy. Lindsey had sure come a long way since then, from a carefree girl to the responsible captain of a starship. And he could remember the nervous Ens. Selina Chaput. She was a young girl who was afraid of responsibility, and now she was going to be a mother. And her husband, Johnathan Mikkelson, was going to be a father.
Dr. Randel's mind went to his own career and decisions, particularly the decision to never marry and have children of his own. A large part of him regretted it, but another part of him realized that the crew of the Orion were like his children. And he was increasingly proud of them.
"Doctor?"
"Hmm?" Dr. Randel left his trip down memory lane to look at the new arrival in sick bay. "Ah, Ens. Annika Hansen. I was wondering when you were going to make your visit to sick bay."
The human woman, once Borg drone, answered, "I am due back in the bridge in ten minutes. I thought it would be an efficient use of my time to check in with you before reporting there. Did you receive the information I sent you?"
"Yes, I did. Trying to develop a medical defense against Borg assimilation seems somewhat futile though."
"Indeed," said Hansen. "But we are ordered to try nonetheless."
"That doesn't sound optimistic, Ensign. However, the ideas generated by Voyager's Doctor seem to be the best. Reading his reports, it is hard to believe that he is an EMH."
"He has progressed far beyond a mere EMH. He is a full person, and a friend," said Hansen a bit defensively. Randel was no counselor, but he could tell that he had hit a nerve. He figured it was best to talk more about the Doctor's work and not the Doctor himself.
"His methods will only delay connection to the hive mind. I am interested in your camouflage proposal, although it is a bit beyond the medical field."
"The Borg are a mixture of biology and technology," answered Hansen. "If we wish to counter them, we must also think in both the biological and technological fields."
"As doctors and engineers. The blue mixing with the yellow."
"Precisely," said Hansen.
"I just hope we don't have to use any of these methods." Dr. Randel's mind suddenly flashed back to Selina, Lindsey, and all the people he cared about on this ship. "I am not sure I can stomach the thought of any of my people being assimilated. And I have a strong stomach. I am a doctor, after all."
"Your people?" asked Ens. Hansen. "You sound like a captain, not a departmental head."
"Unlike the chief engineer or the science officer, my responsibility as chief medical officer extends beyond my staff. I am responsible for the health and safety of the entire crew. In that way I am not unlike the captain."
"Or the chief of security," added Hansen.
"I had not thought of that before," said Dr. Randel. "I suppose you are right. Anything else, Ensign?"
"No, Doctor. That will be all. I must go to the bridge." Dr. Randel watch the young woman leave sick bay and wondered what the future would bring for her.
"Admiral, positive sensor reading. Multiple vessels detected on the Romulan border."
Lindsey tried to look over the captain's chair to see CPO Shelton. She forgot how much better the view was from that seat. "Where are they, Chief?"
"Traveling parallel on the Neutral Zone border. Could be a patrol. I can now confirm that there are three Romulan warbirds."
"Cloaked?" asked Janeway.
"No, Ma'am. They are uncloaked and making no efforts to hide themselves."
"Are there any other ships in the area?"
"None that I can see, Ma'am. I will continue to scan the area." Shelton paused for a bit as he looked intently at his screen. "Admiral, the ships are slowing. They appear to be positioning themselves directly in our path. Entering visual range now."
"On screen," said Janeway.
Lindsey prepared herself, but she was still startled to see three Romulan warbirds on the viewscreen. As they slowed to a halt and turned to face them, Lindsey could see places where the lead ship had been repaired after battle. "Admiral, I suspect that one is the Valdore. Those battle scars seem consistent with the battle with Shinzon's Scimitar."
"Donatra's flagship?" asked Adm. Janeway. "We can't assume that. She might have changed ships. Our intelligence is not all that detailed."
"We'll find out soon enough," said Lindsey.
Lindsey was so focused that she hadn't heard the turbo lift open, but she did see Ens. Annika Hansen come forward. "Ens. Hansen reporting for duty."
"Good, Seven. Take operations," said Janeway. Lindsey wanted to object, saying that she had her own people, but then she remembered that her operations officer, Selina, was on maternity leave. Lindsey simply needed to get use to the fact that Janeway was in charge.
"Admiral, we are approaching the Romulan border and the warbirds," said Johnathan.
"Sensor Chief?" asked Janeway.
"I am not picking up any additional ships," responded Shelton. "That doesn't mean they are not out there."
"Drop to impulse and bring us to a full stop at the edge of the Neutral Zone," ordered Janeway. Lindsey watch as the Orion came to a stop, nose to nose with the lead Romulan warbird. The Hercules and the Lakota were on either side of the Orion matching the other two Romulan ships.
"The lead warbird is requesting that we identify ourselves," said Hansen, or Seven as Janeway referred to her.
"Open the channel."
"Channel opened, Admiral."
"This is Vice Admiral Kathryn Janeway of Starfleet on board my flagship the USS Orion. Accompanying me is the Hercules and the Lakota. We are on route to Romulus at the request of your Praetor, Tal'Aura, and military leader, Commander Donatra."
A Romulan female appeared on screen. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Adm. Janeway. I am Cmdr. Donatra, leader of the Romulan Military Faction, on board my flagship the Imperial Warbird Valdore. Welcome to the Romulan Star Empire, Admiral."
"Thank you. It is a rare pleasure for a Starfleet vessel to be welcomed into Romulan space," said Janeway.
"An increasingly less rare occurrence," added Donatra. Lindsey assumed she was referencing the visits of the Enterprise, the Titan, and the number of relief ships that the Capt. Riker had arranged shortly after Shinzon's death. "I for one do not necessarily see that as a bad thing," said Donatra. "But I must warn you, not all Romulans feel that way. If you wish to keep power to your shields, I will understand. But charging your weapons would be interpreted as…unfriendly."
"I understand, Commander. The ships of my fleet with be as friendly as possible," replied Janeway in a kind tone. Then she dropped to a more serious tone. "That is unless we encounter the Borg."
Lindsey watched Donatra carefully. She knew that Adm. Janeway was trying to provoke a reaction, and Lindsey wanted to see it. But Donatra's grim frown looked genuine. "Indeed, Admiral. It may be that you understand our peril more than I do."
"The Collective and I are all too familiar with each other," said Janeway. "I wouldn't wish assimilation upon my worst enemy."
Donatra's smile returned. "And that includes us. Please allow us to escort you to Romulus."
"We would appreciate the escort." Lindsey found herself agreeing with Adm. Janeway. Having a friendly Romulan warbird in the convoy would perhaps dissuade another less friendly faction from attacking them. However, Lindsey wondered just how trust worthy Donatra was. Capts. Picard and Riker both gave her favorable reports, but Lindsey knew that Donatra's first priority would be the Romulan Empire, not Lindsey's ship or crew.
"We will speak again on Romulus, Admiral." Donatra's image disappeared.
Janeway turned to Lindsey. "That went well."
"I would say so," said Lindsey in a not too convincing tone as she watched Donatra's ship take the lead and the two other warbirds dropping in behind. A quick glance at Shelton told her that he still could not detect any cloaked ships. Lindsey wondered if her ship's cloak buster was even effective anymore or if Romulan technological advances had made the sensor equipment obsolete.
"You see less convinced, Commander," said Janeway. "Are there any concerns."
"No, Admiral, just general anxiety," said Lindsey.
"You worried about the Borg?" asked Capt. Shelby.
"No, Captain. I will let you worry about the Borg. I will worry about the Romulans," answered Lindsey.
"That's why I wanted both of you on this ship," said Janeway. "Helm, match speed and course with the Valdore. We are heading to Romulus."
Henry looked out the window of the conference room. His eyes beheld Romulus, the home world of one of the Federation's longest standing enemies. The home of Cassius Gaiath, the Romulan colonel who attacked the Orion twice and was responsible of the deaths of Henry's captain and many of his crewmates. Henry found it ironic that Gaiath was at this moment incarcerated in a Federation prison, while Henry was in orbit over Romulus.
"Quite the view," said Lindsey, whom Henry didn't even know was behind him.
"Yeah, the twenty or so Romulan warbirds in orbit really frame the planet well."
"It's quite the fleet," added Lindsey as she stood next to Henry. "Donatra has recalled many of her ships to safeguard the home planet."
"Any cloaked ships?"
"None that we can see," said Lindsey. "CPO Shelton cautions that our sensors may no longer be able see through the Romulan cloak. But Lt. Raklok can't believe our sensors are so ineffective."
"His opinion maybe colored. He was, after all, one of the engineers who developed that sensor technology."
"I've considered that, but I have to believe him. Our sensors are displaying nothing other than what the naked eye could see; No blips, no anomalies. My suspicion is that the Romulans know of our sensor tech and are deliberately avoiding letting us test them against a cloaked ship."
"Makes sense," said Henry, still staring out at Romulus.
"Nonetheless, I expect you to continue your scans while the Admiral, Capt. Shelby, and I beam down to the surface."
"Yes, Ma'am," Henry resisted the urge to express his discomfort of letting Lindsey go to the Romulan Senate Chambers without him at her side. He couldn't object every time his captain when on a dangerous mission. But Lindsey was much more than just his captain. Instead of voicing his objection, he slipped his hand into Lindsey's and squeezed her hand. Lindsey returned the hand squeeze, but neither of them took their eyes away from the window.
They urgently separated their hands as soon as they heard the door open. Henry was relieved to see that it was just Lt. Cmdr. Grant. "Captain, the Admiral and Capt. Shelby are ready."
"Thank you, Commander." Lindsey returned to a formal stance. "Commander Hickensen, I leave the ship in your command. We will return shortly."
"Yes, Captain," responded Henry. Lindsey then pivoted and walked out of the conference room. Grant turned to follow her, but Henry reached out and grabbed his arm. "Frank, take care of her."
Grant gave Henry a knowing look. "Yes, Sir."
The white light of the transporter faded, and Janeway found herself in the Romulan Senate Chambers. Despite the danger she faced in this mission, Janeway took a moment to take in the unique situation. The number of Starfleet officers who have stood where she currently stood was in the single digits.
That was until today. Accompanying Adm. Janeway was Cmdr. Lindsey Lander and Capt. Shelby. Capts. Benteen and Jenner were also there, representing their ships, the Lakota and the Hercules. The security presence was Lt. Cmdr. Ulysses F. Grant and Lt. Rikka Nolean, both from the Orion. Grant had requested more officers, but Janeway had denied the request. She also didn't allow them to carry phasers or any weapons.
"Welcome, Adm. Janeway," said a Romulan woman whom Janeway identified from Starfleet reports as Praetor Tal'Aura. She was the official leader of the Romulan Star Empire, even if in reality she had to share power with the other factions within the Romulan government and military. Next to her was Proconsul Tomalak, a former military commander turned politician. Janeway had read numerous reports of his actions against the Federation and his encounters with the Enterprise.
"Thank you, Madam Praetor. It is not often that a Federation admiral is able to meet with the Romulan Praetor." Janeway stood next to the chair that a Romulan uhlan had indicated. Lander was at Janeway's right and Shelby on her left. Benteen and Jenner took positions on either side of the trio, and Grant and Rikka were on the edges.
Just as Janeway was appraising the empty chairs and guessing who was to fill them, Cmdr. Donatra and a Romulan centurion entered. Tal'Aura gave a formal, but none too happy acknowledgement to the Romulan military leader. Janeway looked with appreciation at Donatra. She and her flagship, the Valdore had helped the Enterprise destroy Shinzon's Scimitar and thus saved Earth from a very dangerous weapon of mass destruction.
Donatra approached Janeway, "Welcome, Admiral. I must apologize."
"For what?" asked Janeway.
"I was hoping that the Federation would send Picard. I have worked with him before, and I know him to be an expert on the Borg. However, I have read all I could about your voyage in the Delta Quadrant and your many encounters with the Borg. I am sure that your knowledge will be greatly helpful."
Janeway indeed had ample experience with the Borg, but she found herself regretting the decision to leave Seven of Nine back on the Orion. Janeway could use her expertise at this meeting. She was afraid, however, that the usually suspicious Romulans might not react well to having a former Borg drone in their midst. Janeway scolded herself for giving in to her fear. She was loathed to let anyone's prejudice tell her how to manage a crewman, especially a close friend like Seven.
Donatra looked past Janeway to focus to the Starfleet officer next to her. "Is this Lindsey Lander, Captain of the Orion; the woman who bested Colonel Gaiath twice?"
Janeway gave an encouraging wave to Lander. At first, she seemed surprised to be singled out, but the young woman gained her composure. "Yes, I am."
"Then I congratulate you, but I also begrudge you," said Donatra. "I was hoping to bring him down myself." There was no small amount of anger behind the Romulan woman's face. Janeway found it so perplexing to see such powerful emotion on a face that looked so Vulcan.
"I would have gladly allowed you," said Lander. "But what I couldn't allow was for Gaiath to kill any more of my people. I did what I had to do."
Donatra smiled sinisterly. "You mean to say you got no pleasure in avenging your fallen comrades and captain."
Lander tipped her head to the side. "Justice was served," was all she said, but her expression told more.
Donatra smiled again. "It was a pleasure meeting you, Captain."
"And you as well, Commander," said Lander as the Romulan woman left. Janeway gave Lander her best impressed look. Lander was already showing the subtle skills of a diplomat.
The next contingent to walk in was the oddest. It was mostly made up of Remans, the former slaves of the Romulan Empire who had gained their independence only two years prior. Leading the group was a large Reman male in a gray military uniform. He was Colonel Xiomek, leader of the Reman people.
The one who stood out the most in the group was an elder Vulcan male, Ambassador Spock. Spock, still pursuing his goal of Romulan-Vulcan reunification, had made himself an unlikely ally of the Remans. Peace between the Romulans and Remans was apparently a logical necessity to his aims. As if to let everyone know that the famous Ambassador was still intent on his goal, a Romulan male accompanied him.
Janeway took the initiative to introduce herself to the group. "Colonel Xiomek, Ambassador Spock, I am Adm. Kathryn Janeway. It is an honor."
Xiomek gave Janeway a thoughtful look. Janeway had heard that some Reman's possessed telepathic abilities. She wondered if her mind wasn't being probed at this very moment. But the Reman merely gave her a respectful nodded.
Ambassador Spock spoke in a polite voice. "A pleasure to meet you, Admiral."
"The pleasure is mine," said Janeway. "I believe we have a mutual acquaintance."
"I presume you are referring to Cmdr. Tuvok," answered Spock with his eye brow raised. "He held you high regard." Spock turned Janeway's side. "And it is good to see you again, Capt. Lander. Especially since such a meeting was doubtful the last time we parted."
Janeway hadn't even noticed that Lander had followed her. "It is good to see you as well, Ambassador. And I thank you for the help you lent to Capt. Picard and my crew," said Lander.
Spock acknowledged the thank you and joined the rest of his contingent. Janeway turned to Lander. "You did not tell me that you were acquainted with Ambassador Spock."
"It was very brief, Admiral. And classified." Lander returned to her spot, and Janeway shook her head. She had seen the substantial number of redactions that had appeared on Lander's file about two years ago. Perhaps it was better for Janeway not to know what Lander had gotten mixed up in during her mysterious disappearance at that time.
The last contingent arrived, the warhawks, the anti-Federation party. Their leader, Senator Durjik, entered with his three other Romulan companions. He gave the bare minimal acknowledgement to Tal'Aura, cast a distasteful glare at Donatra, and dealt a look of pure hatred at Janeway and her Federation contingent.
"Everyone, please be seated," said Tal'Aura. Janeway took her chair. So did most everyone else, but each party had people standing guard. Grant and Rikka were standing still behind Janeway and her people.
"We are here to discuss a matter of grave importance and indeed danger to us all," stated Tal'Aura in tone of a professional speaker. She nodded to one of the uhlan guards who activated a viewscreen. On it displayed the video of the attack on the Terabon. Janeway had already seen it dozens of times, as likely had everyone in the room.
When the video concluded Tal'Aura continued. "As should be clear to all here, we are facing an enemy whose very presence in our space is a threat the Romulan Star Empire."
"Perhaps more than one enemy," said Senator Durjik, as he casted a none too subtle glare in the direction of Janeway. Janeway knew that she would have to answer his objections to Federation help eventually, but she was not going to be baited into a premature argument. She pretended not to notice.
It was Tal'Aura who addressed the elephant in the room. "As you have all noticed we have present Adm. Kathryn Janeway of the United Federation of Planets. She and her Starfleet ships and crews will provide us with valuable knowledge and expertise on the Borg."
Durjik spoke again. "The Federation are not the only ones to have encountered the Borg. They attacked our outposts on the Neutral Zone as well."
"But they have completely ignored us since then," answered Donatra, who was working hard to contain her anger. "They have however attacked the Federation on several occasions. And it must be mentioned that Adm. Janeway spent considerable time in the Borg's home territory in the Delta Quadrant."
"Nonetheless, I see it as far more dangerous to allow them here, than the Borg," said Durjik as he stood up from his chair.
"Then you don't know the Borg as I do," said Janeway with an edge in her voice. She remained seated, but she wanted the hostile senator to hear her. Besides she was tired of being talked about and not talked to.
Durjik turned towards Janeway for the first time. "And I suppose we should just bow to your expertise no matter what you say." Durjik did not wait for an answer but turned to Tal'Aura. "Madam Praetor, are you so scared of some ghost cyborgs from the Delta Quadrant that you invite our greatest enemy to come right here to our capital, our home planet?"
"I invited them because they are our allies. Or have you forgotten the Dominion War, Senator?"
"Allies!" said Durjik, now shouting. "The Federation is the enemy. They will destroy all that is Romulan!" Durjik pointed his finger at Tal'Aura, which prompted Tomalak to stand as though to defend her. "It is one thing to take advantage of a treaty, but it is another to invite them here. And especially to allow that murderess into our hollowed senate chambers!"
Janeway was surprised to see Durjik point his figure directly at Lander. Janeway could feel the sudden rise in alert in the rest of her companions. Would young Lander be able to withstand being singled out by Durjik?
Durjik began walking towards the Federation contingent. The whole room became tense. Donatra visibly restrained her security. Tal'Aura stayed Tomalak. Janeway could see Lt. Rikka fidgeting out of the corner of her eye. Lt. Cmdr. Grant took a step behind Lander.
Durjik's walk took him right in front of Lander as he spoke to his fellow Romulans. "Don't be fooled by her childlike appearance. She is a butcherer and a slaughterer of our people!" Lander stood from her chair in the face of the accusations. Janeway almost reached out to pull her down. Was this whole meeting about to explode? Durjik faced Lander squarely. "This woman has Romulan blood on her hands. She is responsible for the deaths of hundreds of our loyal soldiers."
"Loyal?!" shouted Donatra from across the room. Janeway was instantly relieved to see Durjik's focus returned to a Romulan. "Colonel Gaiath was a traitor! He and his crew were not loyal to Empire."
"Under who's definition of loyalty? Yours, Commander?" said Durjik with a disrespectful emphasis on Donatra's rank. "Just because he didn't serve you, did that make him a traitor? You can't stomach the thought that anyone in the Romulan Empire has military power besides you."
"Gaiath lead two unsanctioned attacks against Federation ships," replied Donatra. "Capt. Lander, did what any captain would do. She defended her ship. But you wouldn't understand that, would you, Senator?" Donatra laid the same emphasis on Durjik's title.
"That's enough!" spoke Tal'Aura in a raised voice. "The past actions of a Romulan colonel or a Federation captain are irrelevant. We are here to discuss the current situation. Take your seat, Senator."
Durjik glared once more at Lander before returning to his place. Lander remained standing until Durjik's back was towards her. She then, with her hands on the armrests, slowly and deliberately lowered herself into her chair. Janeway stole a glace across the room. Donatra had a look of respect on her face. Tomalak looked suspiciously impressed. Even Spock had a raised eyebrow. Lander had allowed Durjik to discredit himself in his rage while at the same time gaining the respect of everyone in the room. And she did it all without saying a word.
As Durjik sat back down, Tal'Aura attempted to regain control of her meeting. "The matter before us is not a question of the Federation but one of a dangerous foe, the Borg. We must decide at this meeting how we are to proceed."
At this Cmdr. Donatra stood up. "If I may, Praetor." Janeway knew that Donatra was only putting on a formal show. The military commander probably considered herself as much the ruler of Romulus as the praetor. "I propose that we send scouting ships out to find the vessel that attacked the Terabon. Once we find it, we, with the advice of our Federation colleagues, should destroy the vessel."
"Simple and straight forward, Commander," spoke Xiomek, the Reman Colonel, for the first time. "But perhaps not the most intelligent." Donatra's eyes narrowed at the perceived insult from the former military slave. Xiomek, however, didn't wait for her rebuttal. "If what I have been told is true, many starships have been lost in all out battles with even a single Borg cube. Both the Federation Battles of Wolf 359 and Sector 001 cost Starfleet many vessels."
"What else do you propose, Colonel?" replied Donatra.
"That we may need additional help," said Xiomek. "We have already called in the Federation, but you forget that the Remans have an ally in the Klingon Empire. General Khegh has already expressed his willingness to come, and he has the ear of the Chancellor."
The reaction in the room was worth seeing, and Janeway made a point to commit the sight to her memory. The mention of the Klingons startled almost every Romulan in the room. Tal'Aura especially was alarmed. If Durjik didn't want Federation near Romulus, Tal'Aura definitely did not want Klingons.
"I think we have enough outside support for this one, Colonel," said Donatra. "So you know, I did not plan on a simple assault on the Borg. I too am aware of the battles you described. I am also aware that the Federation has had successes against the Borg, which is something the Klingons cannot yet boast. They have the experience and the techniques we need to defeat the Borg."
Janeway kept her face still, but inside her heart picked up the pace. What would happen when the Romulans discovered that she had left all the best anti-Borg devices in Federation space? Refusing to let fear dictate her moves, Janeway choose this moment to speak. "And we are willing to share these techniques. That is why we are here."
"Really?" asked Durjik. "And why would you do that? Out of the kindness of your heart? Or because of your enlighten ideals?"
"No," said Janeway dramatically as she rose to her feet. "While we would like to continue to promote peace between our people, I assure you, our reasons for being here are mostly self-interest and self-preservation. The Borg have no concepts of neutral zones or treaties. If they invade Romulan space, it is only a matter of time before they enter Federation space. We have a chance to hit them now and hit them hard; to make the Collective think twice about attacking us again. If there is one thing the Collective understands it is unity. We may have our differences, but when it comes to the Borg we need to stand together."
"Unity?" asked Durjik reflectively. His eyes very deliberately bounced from Janeway, to Spock, and to Donatra. "Maybe in your lies, Admiral, you reveal a truth." Before Janeway could figure out what the warhawk meant by that, he turned to Tal'Aura.
"Madam Praetor, perhaps I was mistaken about you." Tal'Aura eyed Durjik suspiciously. "While I could never agree with your decision to accept Federation help, perhaps I can forgive it, given your difficult position." Durjik extended his hand in a kind manner, if that was possible. "I know that you do not enjoy working with the enemy and would not do so if you felt you had a choice." Durjik's voice returned to its normal vehemence. "But the Commander here, she considers the Federation an ally. She is even friends with a number of Starfleet officers. And here she has brought her friends to help her in her goals."
"What are you implying, Durjik?!" commanded Donatra.
"I too am puzzled, Senator," said Tal'Aura. "I invited the Federation here as well."
"But at whose advice, Madam Praetor," spoke Durjik. "Who was it that first reported the Borg to you? Who gave you the Terabon's transmission? To whom does the Terabon answer? And who's fleet has our homeworld surrounded?" Durjik deepen his voice. "Madam Praetor, would not an alliance with the Federation be helpful to a military commander looking to execute a coup? And would not a false Borg threat be the perfect reason to bring in said allies?"
Janeway saw a look of fear come over Tal'Aura as her eyes moved over Donatra. The female commander on the other hand looked like she wished to kill Durjik with her own hands. Janeway knew that this was a critical moment. If Tal'Aura suspected a Federation aided military coup of her seat of power, then Janeway's three ships and their crews were in serious danger.
Janeway spoke clearly, "The Senator has a point." Her words caught everyone by surprise. Donatra wore a look of betrayal, Tal'Aura moved to the edge of her seat, and Durjik was completely baffled by his enemy's sudden agreement with him. Janeway milked the attention for another long second before continuing.
"The point is that we do not all trust each other. Madam Praetor, you fear moves against your authority; Senator Durjik, you fear Federation subterfuge; and I fear that my three ships are being lured deep into Romulan territory and into a trap in order for Romulans to steal top Starfleet technology to use against us in a later war."
Janeway continued, "The only way to move past these fears and mistrusts is to find out the truth. Is there really a Borg cube out there or isn't there?"
"And how do you propose, Admiral, that we, who do not trust each other, proceed?" asked Tal'Aura.
"I did not bring a battle fleet into your space, but a scouting force. Allow my ships to begin a search for the Borg cube."
"Allow you free voyage through out territory!" shouted Durjik.
"No, not free. Perhaps a few escort ships would be appropriate," said Janeway. "I will also permit a reasonable number of observers on board my flagship from any party that feels the need to learn more about the Borg presence and Starfleet's intentions."
Durjik gave Janeway a calculating look. "You would allow my people on your ship."
"Yes," said Janeway. "If that is what it takes to earn your trust, or at least assure you that I have no other motive here besides fighting the Borg."
Durjik eyed Janeway suspiciously. "I may find a person or two whom I can trust to keep an eye on you."
"I look forward to it," said Janeway. She then turned to address the room. "You are all welcome to send observers on board my ship. There are some details to sort, but I think the basic plan is simple. My fleet will find and confirm the presence of a Borg vessel, and then we will work together to rid Romulan space of the Borg."
Alivia was in the control room just next to the warp core in Engineering when Ens. Annika Hansen approached with a business-like demeanor. "Cmdr. O'Hara-Grant, have the scanners be updated to search for transwarp signatures and other signs of Borg activity?"
"Yes, Ensign." Alivia tried not to let the air of authority surrounding Janeway's favorite ensign bother her.
"By my calculations that took ninety-seven minutes longer than is should have to make the necessary calibrations. Your crew seems to be underperforming."
This time Hansen got under Alivia's green skin. "Are you doing a performance evaluation, Ensign?"
"No, Commander."
"A bit of advice, Ensign: You won't make friends quickly by criticizing your superiors so bluntly."
"I am sorry if I have offended you," said Hansen with a look of disappointment. Clearly this was an area in which the woman had struggled with in the past. Alivia's anger dissipated as she sympathized with the woman. It could not be easy transitioning to Starfleet practices when one spent nearly her entire life in the Borg collective.
"No offense taken, Ensign. But you should be cautious with the feelings of those around you, particularly your superiors."
"Your point is well taken," answered the Borg woman.
"The reason the calibrations took longer than you expected was because we wanted to maintain our anti-cloak sensor ability."
"The Romulans are our allies in this matter," said Hansen. "Should we not prioritize our systems against the Borg."
"Yes, but not to the detriment of protecting ourselves from the Romulans." Alivia brought Hansen over to the sensor station. "This ship and its crew have had too many negative experiences with the Romulans to let our guard down. Lt. Raklok, sensor status."
The Klingon engineer reported. "Sensors functioning optimally. We do not detect any Borg activity. Nor can we spot any suspicious Romulan activity, cloaked or otherwise."
"Sensor Chief?"
"I concur, Commander," said Chief Petty Officer Shelton. "But we will keep our eyes peeled. Cmdr. Hickensen ordered the Lieutenant and I to make it our top priority."
"I would issue the same order if our first officer hadn't beaten me too it." Alivia looked at the odd pair. Raklok and Shelton had become close friends sometime before Alivia had come on board.
"If the Romulans try pull any tricks on us again," said Raklok in a violent voice. "We will see it. And if they try battle, we will be victorious again."
"You have done battle with the Romulans?" asked Hansen.
"Yes, we have; glorious and victorious battle. And although Starfleet will not allow us to feast on the hearts of our defeated foes, our blades have been christened with the blood of Romulans."
"You are speaking metaphorically?" asked Hansen.
"No," said Shelton less enthusiastically than Raklok. "He is not."
"Hickensen to O'Hara," rang Alivia's combadge.
"O'Hara here."
"Report to transporter room one and bring the scanning equipment Cmdr. Grant requested."
"Understood, Commander, on my way." Alivia grabbed the triquarter. "Lieutenant, Chief, carry on."
"May I accompany you, Commander?" asked Hansen.
"Of course. This way." Alivia left Engineering and took the turbo lift to the transporter room nearest the bridge. As she and Hansen entered, Cmdr. Hickensen and some security guards were already there.
"Energize," said Hickensen. Seven silhouettes transformed into Adm. Janeway and the rest of her away team. "Welcome back, Admiral. Please stand by for security check."
Hickensen gave Alivia a wave, and she proceeded to scan each with her triquarter. As she scanned the Admiral she got a positive reading. "Excuse me, Admiral." Alivia reached into Janeway's thick brown hair and pulled out a small mechanical bug. It literally looked like a bug. "Looks like we found one. This little guy is transmitting even as we speak."
"Secure it and continue your scans, Commander," replied Janeway as she fixed her hair.
Alivia continued her scans, waving to the security guards each time she found a listening device. "Scan complete, Commander. Eight listening devices found in total. Each one is secured."
"I guess the Tal Shiar found their way into our meeting after all," said Adm. Janeway.
"I would expect nothing less," said Capt. Lander. "Creepy devices though." Lander held up one of the containers holding one of the insect looking listening devices.
"Capt. Riker and his crew found similar devices during their trip here," replied Janeway. "Cmdr. O'Hara-Grant, please make sure that these devices are secured and studied. I want to know whatever we can about our eavesdroppers."
"Yes, Admiral," replied Alivia.
"Rikka, accompany Cmdr. O'Hara-Grant," said Frank. "Make sure security parameters are in place. Then take the rest the shift off. I think you've earned your due today."
"Thank you, Commander," said Nolean with no small amount of relief. Alivia could see the look of fatigue on her husband's face as well. Whatever happened down on the surface had clearly drained the security staff.
"I agree," said Adm. Janeway. "If we ever have to hold another debate with conflicting Romulan parties, it will be too soon. If I could have all the captains meet in my ready room to debrief. After that we all need to get our ships ready for departure."
There was an echo of "Yes, Ma'ams" throughout the room. Adm. Janeway, Capt. Lander, and the other ship captains when one way. Hickensen and Frank went another. Alivia and Nolean went a third way.
So…how was it?" asked Alivia of Nolean.
"How was it?!" replied Nolean. "It was the most tense experience of my life. Four captains, one admiral, but only two unarmed security officers; against a dozen or more Romulans. I count at least six times that things almost came to blows. If it wasn't for Adm. Janeway and Capt. Lander I am sure it would have." Nolean looked down at her hands still nearly clenched in fists. "Alivia, I can't straighten my fingers."
"You said Capt. Lander helped keep the peace. I imagined that she would have stayed fairly silent," said Alivia.
"She did; even when she was accused of murder by one of the warhawks. I don't know how Frank kept his cold. One wrong move at that moment might have started a war."
Alivia smiled as she thought of her husband's calm and focused demeanor. "Let's take these to the science lab. Their containment fields ought to block any signals from these devices." Nolean merely nodded.
The two ladies entered the science lab. Ens. Rikka Samae looked up from her station, but then immediately looked down. A quick look of disappointment flashed across Rikka Nolean's face. Nolean had told Alivia all about her little sister, none of which implied a disconnect between the two of them. Alivia wondered what had come between the sisters.
"Cmdr. O'Hara-Grant, what can I do for you?" said Lt. T'Sel. Alivia had not yet had much time to meet the Orion's new science officer. She had been looking for an excuse. She was hopeful that the emotion-controlled Vulcan would see little logic in the ongoing yellow vs. blue, engineer-scientist feud.
"I have a number of Romulan listening devices. I want to study and reverse engineer them, but we must be careful to keep them from transmitting. I was hoping to use your containment fields."
"Of course," said T'Sel as she led them over to a side table. Nolean placed the devices on the table, and T'Sel said, "Computer, erect a containment field with level 4 communications dampening." The computer beeped, and the field appeared.
Nolean, content with the security measures, left the science lab. Alivia watched as her friend walked away. Alivia had never seen Nolean like this. Her usual free spirit seemed quenched, and her body indeed seemed tightened like a coil ready to spring. Alivia's eyes moved across the lab and landed on the other Bajoran in the room.
"Is there something else I can do for you, Commander?"
"No, Lieutenant. But I would like a personal word with one of your crew." T'Sel seemed confused but gave a signal of permission.
Alivia walked up to Rikka Samae. "Ens. Rikka."
The Bajoran woman was almost startled. "Yes, Commander." Alivia nearly smiled. This young woman reminded Alivia of her early years in Starfleet.
"At ease, Ensign. I come to you not as a commander but as a friend of Nolean's."
"Oh?" said Samae uneasily.
"Ensign, your sister has just returned from a difficult duty. She could use a comforting presence. She and I are good friends, and I will do what I can; but I think the person she would really like to have visit her is you."
"I'm stuck in the science lab until the end of my shift," said Samae, making excuses.
"That's fine. It's not urgent. It can wait until the end of your shift." said Alivia. "Again, I am not speaking as a commander, nor am I giving you orders. I just think it would be good for you to visit your sister."
"I'll think about it," said Samae.
"You do that, Ensign. Carry on."
"Yes, Commander."
"Frank, what was it like down there?" asked Henry in a subdued voice.
"Tense, Henry, tense. But Janeway is a great diplomat," replied Frank also keeping his voice low so as to prevent the rest of the bridge crew from hearing their conversation
"She does hold the Federation record for the most first contacts," said Henry. "Although being lost in the Delta Quadrant where every contact is a first contact helps."
The meeting in the captain's ready room concluded as the various captains came out. Benteen, Jenner, and Shelby all left the bridge. Lindsey walked right to the captain's chair which Henry yielded.
"Commander, I need you to prepare our guest rooms. Please remove all Federation and Earth symbols or references."
"Are we taking on guests?"
"Yes, Romulan guests. And I don't want to upset them unnecessarily."
"Will they have the same courtesy about upsetting us?" asked Frank in uncharacteristic annoyance. Henry figured he had earned a little venting after enduring hours of Romulan politics on the surface.
"They might," answered Lindsey in a tone that implied the opposite. "Regardless we are called upon to be the bigger man. I want us to do everything we can to make our Romulan guests comfortable."
"We always have to be the diplomats," said Frank.
Lindsey gave Frank a calculating look. "Cmdr. Grant, you gave Lt. Rikka the rest of her shift off. I now do the same for you. Rest up, I need you at full mental capacity for the next couple days."
"I apologize for my attitude, Captain. It is unprofessional. And thank you." With that Frank left the bridge.
Henry watched him leave. Then he looked at Lindsey as she sat in her chair. If Frank was struggling, how much more was Lindsey? "Captain, may I have a word?"
"Of course," answered Lindsey. "Mr. Mikkelson, you have the bridge." Lindsey stood and took two steps towards her ready room before she stopped. She bowed her head as she remembered that it was Janeway's ready room instead. She turned to Henry. "Conference room."
Henry followed her into the conference room. As soon as Lindsey turned around Henry could see the weariness on her face. "Are you alright?"
"I'm fine, Henry. Just tired."
"Take some time. I can handle things."
"You're probably right," said Lindsey. "But I want to make sure that things are ready for our Romulan visitors. They didn't tell us when they will be boarding."
"Again, I can handle it," said Henry. He shook his head. "I can't believe we are going to have them on board. After everything we've experienced…to welcome Romulans on our ship."
"It gets worse. Among the Romulan parties invited are the warhawks."
Henry shuddered. "Do we have too?"
"I'm not happy about it either. It was a warhawk who attacked the old Orion and killed Capt. Taylor and many of my friends. And then one of them had the audacity to call me a murderer!" Lindsey slammed her fist on the table. Then she took a deep breath. "But, it's the right call. If we can get the warhawks to side with us against the Borg, then the rest of Romulus will be easy."
"They may be dangerous," said Henry.
"That's why I want Frank at his best. And you too, Henry." Lindsey put her hand on Henry's shoulder. "Janeway and Shelby will be focused on the Borg. We need to watch the Romulans." Lindsey dropped her hand. "Is there anything else, Commander?"
"Just one thing." Henry reached out and embraced Lindsey in a hug. At first she tensed up, alarmed at the inappropriate gesture, but then she relaxed and allowed him to hold her.
After a few long seconds Lindsey broke out of the embrace. "Thank you, Henry."
Senator Durjik walked passed his guards into his living quarters. Most days he never went anywhere without his trusted security. Now with the Federation orbiting above he certainly could not afford to let down his guard. Even with the added caution, Durjik immediately realized he had made a mistake when he heard the sound of a force field being raised. He should have let the guards clear the room first. He turned around to see the shimmer of the force field between him and the exit.
"Greetings, Senator."
"Guards!" shouted Durjik as he turned to face his enemy.
"Save your breath, Senator." Standing calmly in Durjik's living quarters was a Romulan woman. "This force field contains audio dampening. They cannot hear you." She looked like a simple street peasant with little distinctive markings. Despite her obvious ill intent, Durjik found the woman attractive. She was young and there was an elegance to her arched eyebrows. Her blank expression, on the other hand, wasn't too warm.
"Killing me won't stop my movement." Durjik began to tense his body, preparing to spring at the woman. She stood a bit too far away for such an attack, but Durjik had no intention of dying easily. "If Donatra thinks she can just sweep me away, then she is wrong. My voice will live on in my followers."
"I am not here to kill you, Senator. I have questions for you."
Not from Donatra then, thought Durjik. "So, the Tal Shiar sent you. They have lost their art of subtlety. You will not find me the cooperative type. Although, I am curious. What is it that the infamous spy agency would like to know?"
"Did you or any of your warhawk conspirators create the Borg illusion?"
"What?" Durjik was caught off guard. "No. Why would you ask that?"
"Do you have any ill intentions for the Federation task force here?"
"Plenty. I would love to see them burn." Maybe this woman was sent by Donatra. Only Donatra would care so much about the Federation.
"Have you or any of your compatriots lured the Federation fleet here?"
Now Durjik was confused. "Why would I want Federation ships here?"
"As Adm. Janeway said, to lure them into a trap, to steal their technology, to disrupt any possible Federation-Romulan cooperation."
In a flash of startled insight Durjik realized who his interrogator worked for. "Donatra didn't send you. And you're not Tal Shiar. You're not even Romulan!" Durjik walked slowly forward, trying to subtly get into attack range. "You're Starfleet! A Federation spy in my own house! This will not stand! When my people hear of this they will never cooperate with your precious Starfleet."
"No one learn of this," answered the woman who calmly remained in her place despite Durjik's move to draw nearer. "I will have the answers to my questions. And you will not remember any of our conversation."
Durjik's response was to lunge at the woman. His arms were extended towards her, grasping to tear into her with all his pent up, anti-Federation, violent emotions. The woman actually stepped towards Durjik, stopped his forward movement with her right hand, and with her left hand pinched the back of his neck. Durjik felt his body go inexplicably limp. He dropped to his knees, and it took every effort not to fall on his face.
"What have you done to me?" he asked.
The woman didn't answer but bent down to eye level with him and put her hand to his face; her thumb on his jaw, one finger on his cheek bone, and the rest on his temple. "My mind to your mind; my thoughts to your thoughts."
Durjik felt an alien presence in his mind. "No! Get out of my head, you Vulcan mind-witch!"
"Relax, Senator. My mind to your mind; my thoughts to your thoughts."
When Durjik woke up from what felt like a pleasant nap, he arose and proceeded to pick amongst his followers which one he would send to Janeway's ship. The only remnant of his strange encounter was a vague feeling that he was forgetting something.