Enjoy and review. Quick thank you to Lone Wolf O'Neill for all his help and his hours spent with me writing this.

.

CH 5 A Day of Meetings

.

ENTERPRISE BRIDGE

The Enterprise drops out of warp around Upsilon Cerberus IV. As indicated in the secret communique the Klingon Battle cruiser IKS Klothos drops out of warp a mere second after the Enterprise. "Mr. Spock," is all Kirk has to say before the Vulcan begins to report.

"IKS Klothos," Spock calls out the ship designation. "Battle cruiser with crew compliment of 430. Capable of warp factor 9. It has two nacelle-mounted disruptor cannons, a forward-mounted phaser emitter, and a forward launcher capable of firing photon torpedoes, magnetic pulses and disruptor blasts."

"Wow…some diplomatic ship," Sulu states staring at the image of the bulbous head and wings of the Klingon craft.

"Don't worry Lt. Sulu. We've got some bite of our own," Jim assures his command crew sensing tension rising. Jim assumes his position in the Captain's chair sitting strong and proud with squared shoulders and straight spine. "Lt. Uhura…hail the Klothos."

"Aye Captain," she responds. Jim can hear her place the comm using fluent Klingon. Seconds later the view screen is filled with the image of Chancellor Gorkon and his chief of staff Torak.

"Chancellor Gorkon… Councilor Torak…it is good to see you again." Kirk greets the Klingons formally.

"And you Captain. Chancellor Gorkon wishes to again extend his deepest thanks for your consent to meet us here," Torak nods her head in greeting.

Her overly friendly mannerisms and word choice sets Kirk further on edge. "Chancellor Gorkon is there anything we might prepare for the dinner that you or your crew would enjoy?" Jim could give a shit less what the Klingons ate or if they even came but Gorkon's silence is concerning him.

"Anything will be sufficient. The Chancellor and I are looking forward to meeting with you and your crew in a less formal setting," Torak says smoothly. "Do you have a time for the dinner reception?"

"With all due respect Torak," Jim responds, "I was addressing Chancellor Gorkon." Jim waits for a response but Gorkon continues to stare straight ahead. The unease Kirk initially felt is turning into outright distrust. "Why isn't the Chancellor speaking," Kirk demands a response.

"I am his chief of staff Captain," Torak fights to maintain her friendly composure. If she did not need the Captain and his crew she would destroy them now. "Does your First Officer not speak on your behalf?" Torak tries to change the topic slyly.

"He does but I would like to hear it from him. Put me at ease," Jim taunts.

"That's impossible," Torak firmly states eyes locked on Kirk.

"Oh…and why is that," Jim leans back some in his command chair presenting a calm state; however, every nerve is raw and each of his senses heightened as Torak speaks.

"Damn you Kirk," Torak seethes silently watching him lean back casually in the chair. "ghaH cha (show him)," she commands Gorkon. "We had a small accident on route," Torak says smoothly as Gorkon opens the neck to his uniformed shirt. The bridge crew of the Enterprise holds their breath seeing a blood soaked bandage appear below his collar. They watch in horrified fascination as he removes the bandage exposing a mass of jagged tissue sown roughly together. "The event happened immediate following our broadcast to you. His throat was slit severing his ability to speak," Torak states simply. "You were right. There are many who do not want to embrace a brave new world of peace."

Jim stares at the still seeping wound. "That doesn't look like a small accident," Jim spits out acidly. "Do you require medical attention? I can send my doctor," Kirk offers unsure how old the wound is. Klingon medicine is no match for Star Fleets.

"We do not require your medical assistance Captain. Chancellor Gorkon is fine," Torak assures the bridge crew. Jim can see she is forcing her neutral tone. He decides to push her farther.

"This is not fucking right," a voice screams in Jim's head yet he continues with a calm tone. "I hope your caught the person responsible?"

Torak lets a small smile curl at the edges of her mouth. "They have been dealt with. I offer my assurances to you that only those who believe in this meeting remain on the ship. The Chancellor believed strong enough in this endeavor that he refused to have it postponed. He feared that postponing would cause you to fear or doubt our sincerity. So he demanded honor be upheld and we come."

Jim stares as Torak and Gorkon looking for any sign of lies or treachery. "A personal attack on the Chancellor's life is hardly a small accident. The Federation would have understood as would have I." Jim let's his words hang for several seconds before speaking. "Will he heal?"

"Heal yes but speak no," Torak confesses. "The blade went too deep, the scarring too massive."

Jim looks to see how far they are willing to go in this charade. "We can help. Before we," Jim starts but us cut off abruptly by Torak.

"Do you not realize what he has given up for you and your precious Federation? Tell me would you sacrifice so much for peace?" Torak allows some anger to seep into her words like the blood seeps from the bandage.

Jim squares his shoulders as he rises walking closer to the view screen. "People can be afraid of change so they act out in violence. I regret this happened to such an honorable warrior. I am inspired by the bravery and dedication Gorkon has shown towards creating a lasting peace. It is an honorable and worthy goal."

"I hope this will not prevent you from attending the ceremony Captain Kirk?" Everything rides on Captain Kirk accepting the invitation.

"It will not," Jim states. Torak tries to control her emotions as relief floods her body. "We shall move forward in the process of creating peace between our two great societies," Jim's tone then takes on a harsher quality. "I must insist however, that Dr. McCoy examine Chancellor Gorkon. If there is anything we can do…we must offer it," Jim allows a slightly sarcastic tone creep into his words. With all the concessions Gorkon has permitted, one slightly snarky comment will be excused. "Dr. McCoy is quite skilled as a physician and surgeon. Chancellor Gorkon, please accept my invitation for a full examination. If there is a chance McCoy can repair the damage we must take it. In the interest of peace," Jim adds.

"That will be acceptable and appreciated," Torak's voice seems to have just a hint of hope to it as she speaks.

"Dinner is as 1830 hrs. Chancellor Gorkon is welcome any time before that to visit Sick Bay. Barring any surprises," Jim tacitly warns Torak, "we will see you at 1830 hrs."

"Your terms are acceptable. We will contact you when the Chancellor is ready to beam over for his…exam," Torak says smoothly.

Gorkon lifts a PADD and begins typing. Kirk waits anxiously to see what will happen next. "I HOPE THIS DOES NOT SCARE YOU AND YOUR OFFICERS," a computerized voice reads the words Gorkon has typed.

"It does not. Only my daughter does," Jim tries to sound casual.

"FORGIVE THE TIME INVOLVED IN MY WORDS. THIS IS A LABORIOUS WAY TO COMMUNICATE. I TRUST TORAK WITH MY LIFE AND THIS CEREMONY. I APPRECIATE YOUR CANDOR AND PATIENCE," Gorkon's words spew from the PADD. Torak gently pushes the PADD down signaling the end of Gorkon's computerized verbal message.

"No need to apologize Chancellor. I wish to express my sincere condolences on your injury and the greatest hope that Dr. McCoy makes right it."

"So you will be okay dealing verbally with me," Torak asks, "for all decisions?"

"Appears that way unless he brings the PADD," Kirk comments almost in a smart ass tone. Spock clears his voice as takes his place next to Jim. Kirk knows Spock is not happy with Jim's flippant tone. "1830hrs then," Kirk sums up the meeting.

"1830 hours. Torak out," she snaps cutting off the communication.

Chekov turns to Sulu and in a low voice says, "Guess who's coming to dinner," under his breath.

.

IKS KLOTHOS

Lotho stands approaching Torak and the fake Chancellor Gorkon. "Tre'gok will never convince them he is Gorkon," Lotho points at the surgically altered Tre'gok. "Your ill-planned move to slit his throat has doomed this mission."

Torak swift as lightening pulls a kut'luch from her belt pressing the tip into Lotho's stomach. "And how would you explain Tre'gok's voice," she snarls allowing the assassin's blade to poke through Lotho's shirt to the soft flesh below. "Leave the deceptions to those who know how to lie. Politicians and diplomats lie with a smile just as you all will tonight. You would never have gotten onto the ship without my ill-planned move." Torak can feel the blade penetrate the skin by the way Lotho is tightening his muscles moving imperceptibly away from the blade. "The doctor will examine Tre'gok and never doubt our claims. A good lie is all in the details. His throat was slit at the exact moment I told Kirk of Gorkon's attack. The doctor will confirm this. We will eat with the p'htak's then slit their throats letting the fields of Upsilon Cerberus run with their blood." She removes the blade slowly. "You are lucky we need you tonight or my blade would have tasted you blood. To the Empire," she roars striding to the Captain's chair. Lotho will not let this insult pass without retribution but too much rides on completing this mission. He returns to his station awaiting his orders. He can deal with Torak later.

.

READY ROOM ENTERPRISE

As the screen goes black Jim is already on his feet heading towards the ready room. "Call an emergency meeting in ten minutes Mr. Spock. I want all department heads there," Jim orders exiting the bridge for his private office. Exactly ten minutes later Jim enters the ready room. He crosses the room to his seat talking as he moves. "Okay boys and girls we have a new development. Those of you on the bridge know this but for those of you who don't Gorkon was attacked on his way here." Jack sits up giving Kirk his full attention. "Counselor Torak was a bit sketchy on the details but it appears that his throat was slit and he has lost the ability to verbally communicate. This means all communication will be through Torak."

"By whom and when," Jack asks specific details.

"She did not say except that it was after our conference comm and the traitors were dealt with," Jim responds before turning to Bones. "Can you corroborate any of this based on a physical examination of his wounds?"

Bones was not expecting this. "Yeah provided he submits to a medical exam but how are you going to get him to do that Jim," Bones asks shocked.

"Oh they is not coming on board without an exam of Gorkon. I need to know if this could this have happened," Jim gives the situation the benefit of doubt, "as she says or not."

"I can confirm the type of weapon used in the assault," Bones explains. "I can also give you a rough estimate on when it occurred based on his healing patterns, but that is it. If it is possible, I can fix the damage also. Maybe save some form of his voice if the scaring is not severe."

"This is just too convenient," Jack says leaning forward on the table.

"I have to agree with Jack. Seems a wee bit wonky to me Cap'n," Scotty leans forward making sure he can see Jim's face. "An canna we trust Torak?"

"I hope," Jim affirms with the best answer he can. "She however is only one of the problems we are facing." Jim signals for Spock to debrief Alpha team on his scientific scans to Upsilon Cerberus VI.

"Upsilon Cerberus IV has a liquid kelbonite core," Spock begins getting a range or murmurs and obscenities from around the table. "The crust and mantle also contain high levels of kelbonite thereby preventing the use of the transporters. The only way on or off the planet will be through shuttles," Spock states the obvious. Everyone sitting around the table has a basic knowledge of how the kelbonite mineral deflects and prevents locks of transporter beams. Spock tries to put a positive spin on the news. "Although it prevents us from beaming down, it will also do the same for the Klingons. This will prevent others from beaming down not cleared to attend the event."

"Yeah team," Jack roots unenthusiastically from his seat.

"Oh then you are going to love this Jack," Uhura offers before beginning her report.

"De sun of Upsilon Cerberus VI is emitting coronal mass ejections every 30 to 45 minutes. Dis is preventing us from dropping de shields for any length of time vithout damage," Chekov states the obvious.

"Which will effectively block communications as well," Uhura sums up her department. "The electromagnetic pulse coming off those coronal ejections would have fired every circuit if the shields had not been up."

Bones sees that table is in need of something positive. "So I am cancelling your and Kate's appointment for the subcutaneous transponder," Bones asks in his slow southern drawl. "She will be thrilled. Gave me a ration of shit when she found out what we were going to do," he shares with Jim. Jim's cocked eyebrow makes McCoy explain further. "She was very polite when she explained it to me that she did more appreciate being tagged like a nerf. I tried to make it sound all techy and cool. That she could beam out like a spy or hear sub-dermal transmissions yet she did not buy it." Snickers erupt from around the table again. "And yet all without a single use of a derogatory comment," Bones grins widely. "Gentlemen, if we were able to do that we can handle some Klingons." Everyone present remembers several months ago when every adjective used by Kate as was a curse word.

Jack drums his fingers on the table realizing what a cluster fuck this situation is turning into. "No cheers Jack," Uhura teases now that their suspicious security chief has all the facts.

"No it's coming. I was just waiting to make sure there is nothing else you are adding to make this a wonderful away mission," Jack says dryly raising his eyebrows. "No…yeah," he gives a small unenthusiastic fist pump once.

Jim waits until everyone has absorbed the shitty news before speaking. "I am issuing Star Fleet Order 1-202-B, and barring all personnel from the planet except for myself and Kate as before. This news does not change anything." Jim levels a solid stare at Jack. "Not a word Jack. We have been over this already. I need constructive answers understood. We have a lot to cover."

Jack keeps his tone formal and questions pointed. "So you are looking to commandeer a shuttle and fly it down there yourself?"

"Yes," Jim states firmly moving off the topic. "Gorkon and his party are coming for dinner at 1830 hours. It is a formal event so senior staff is required to attend. According to our initial agreement, they are bringing six officers and their children. Against my better judgment, I will allow the kids to attend dependent on your personal approval. Kate and I are the only ones that technically need to be there. I have never imposed on our family units and do not intend to do so now," Jim replies looking at around the table.

"It will be a good trial run to feel out their intentions," Sulu offers. "We are at least on the ship where we can control more variables than we will on planet. Erika will be there sir."

"So will Cameron. Might make things go a wee better tomorrow for us," Scotty sighs leaning back in his chair.

Jim does not look for Jack's reply. He knows Jack's view and will not pry or try to change it. "Okay but remember there is no us. Everyone keeps referring to us when it is Kate and me." Jim softens his firm tone. "I am trying to keep you all out of this. Kate and I can handle it."

"So general order 15 doesn't apply to you or regulation 23 sub-section 45 that states away teams must be composed of more than one crewmember," Jack questions. "I mean I don't think they meant kids when they wrote that as actual crewmembers."

Jim knows Jack is trying to paint him into a corner. "No I prefer Regulation 3 Paragraph 12: In the event of imminent destruction, a Starfleet captain is authorized to preserve the lives of his crew by any justifiable means. Kirk is getting tired of defending his position but security is Jack's job. He tries to lighten the tension filled room. "Damn Jack… you studying on me?"

"Star Fleet's got a million of them for a good reason. Apparently you are not the first Captain to try stuff like this," Jack throws out another validate regulation. "Tactical directive 36: The captain will not engage a hostile force without the protection of a security officer."

Star Fleet was made and continues to persist on the creative exploits of its members. For each rule someone like Komack makes to tie a Captain's hand, people like Archer write one to free them. "Do you know General Order 17 stating the commanding officers of Starfleet vessels are to consider the lives of their crew members above the fate of his ship? This goes nicely with General Order 29 stating the primary responsibility of any Starfleet Captain is to secure the welfare and safety of his crew. No action may be taken that creates an unwarranted threat to the safety of those individuals under the officer's charge." Jim looks to Spock for backup. "Jack you really don't have a leg to stand on here."

"They do pair nicely don't they but you left out the clause of except in the line of duty and when it is otherwise unavoidable. This is clearly a situation that is unavoidable," Jack points out.

It is not unavoidable if you keep your ass on the ship Jack," he says annoyed. Jim fires another reg at Jack not dealing with security. "Regulation 157, Section 3 Paragraph 18: Starfleet officers were required to take all necessary precautions to minimize any participation in historical events," he points out happily at Jack. "This is about as historical as you can get." Jim crosses his arms with a smirk. "I never thought I would be battling regs with you…Spock but not you."

"And I think you are taking a liberal interpretation of Regulation 157. It is intended for use in First Contact situations," Spock is silenced by a wave of Jim's hand.

"When did you two become friends?" Jim is calm and serious.

"Who me and ears? We've been having the occasional lunch," Jack jokes.

"Spock what the hell have you been doing with him," Jim stares at the Vulcan. "No more lunches. I like you both better as enemies," he jests. "Jack stop worrying about your job. General order 26 clearly states you will not be held accountable for MY actions. "

"This is not about covering my ass. It is about the job you are preventing me from doing," Jack fires back hotly.

"I know but we are on the record here," Jim just like Jack is trying to keep it civil. "You may not agree with me but I need to know you have my back." Kirk lets his steady gaze fall on Jack. "Kate and I can handle this. I am not happy about it but we can."

Suddenly Jack sees Jim's angle. "You're planning on using Kate. She is your ace in the hole isn't she sir."

Jim did not want anyone to connect that dot. "Why would you think that," Jim's gaze turns into a hard stare.

Jack knows he has struck a nerve with Jim. Since her arrival Jim has been against anything that forced Kate to use her powers. Now he is openly endorsing them. "With all due respect sir I'm your COS," Jack gets a grave face.

Jim is pissed off to be talking about this. Since her arrival, Jim has leaned on many of Alpha crew for advice and to help take care of Kate. They have grown to see her like Jim sees their kids. The part that pisses him off is that Kate is his daughter. He doesn't interfere with their families but everyone has an opinion on Kate. "You think I would use her as a weapon?" Jim tries to keep his anger in check. He never intended on using her that way. Jim hoped she would be able to feel out the mood like he has seen Lauren and other Jedi alerting him to danger; however, if push came to shove Jim would have no problem ordering her to use whatever tricks she had to defend herself.

Bones gets a look of shocked horror on his face. "My god man is he serious," Bones asks pointing at Jack but looking at his best friend. "You would use her tactically.

"Not exactly Bones," Jack defends Jim. "But we all know what she is capable of. What we don't know is will she freeze or do something we haven't seen," Jack calmly states the facts.

Bones is losing his patience. "Dammit man, answer me if not him," he growls protectively. "Are you planning on using Kate's Force skills?"

"No. I will not have Kate use the Force unless we are provoked," Jim lays out his plan.

"Unless provoked?" Bones almost squeals. "You are going to a planet filled with Klingons and you don't think you won't be provoked? Jim, Kate is intelligent but she is also a child. You can't give her that kind of power."

Jim needs to get everyone back on track. "Look I appreciate everyone's concerns but the planet is not the only dangerous situation we are dealing with. There is a god damned Klingon Battle Cruiser off my port bow. Hell they can open fire before we even get to the planet," Jim points out. He takes a minute to gather his thoughts. "My point is that if provoked she has demonstrated then ability to take care of herself. Jack…Spock…you trained her well both physically and mentally. All I am saying is that she has an edge they don't. If something doesn't go as planned, it will be your job to get her out. Like it or hate it she is getting the sub-dermal transponder Bones."

"Why does she need that when she has that Jedi thing going for her," Bones barks in an annoyed tone.

"Oh I don't know. It seems to have worked so well for her in the past like when fell off the training wall dislocating her shoulder at Christmas," Jack jokes humorlessly.

"She has had training since then and she will also have more kick on planet," Jim informs the men around the table. Jim cuts off Jacks with a harsh glare before he can question why she will be better on planet with the Force than on the Enterprise.

Jack is ready to throttle Jim. He leans back in the chair throwing his hands up. "As you wish Captain," he states in a snarky tone Jim ignores. There is no point in talking here. Jack will speak to Jim alone.

Jim moves the meeting along at a fast clip. "Spock and scotty…find me a way to get around the sensor and transporter issues. Uhura I want communications up no matter what feedback pulse or coronal mass ejections occur. I don't care if you string two tin cans together form the bridge to the ground. Find me a way to talk to my ship," Jim barks out orders. "Sulu, you and Chekov plot the fastest course away from this rock. Jack prep a security detail for dinner. Dismissed," Jim orders walking back to his private office at the end of the room.

.

DENEVA MINING CORPORATION HEADQUARTERS DENEVA

Charles Kowalski sits drumming his fingers on the wood lacquered desk. He placed the secure comm to Vagh'Bar several hours ago yet his contact had not responded back. By now there are rumors flying everywhere in the underground circles. They ranged from Chancellor Gorkon dying to fleeing the Klingon Empire for asylum in the Federation. The only thing Kowalski knows for sure is that Gorkon has not requested asylum. For someone that high profile, he and Sam would be managing the case. The room is silent except for the gentle whooshing of the forced air coming from the vents. Getting messages from Vagh'Bar was always difficult but never took this long. As Kowalski weighs the risks of contacting the Klingon double agent again, the comm on his desk buzzes moving the device in slow circles.

"You were to never contact me," Vagh'Bar snarls from half way cross the galaxy. "The risk too great and I will not die for your cause."

"But you will die for the fucking obscene amount of darek's being deposited into your account as we speak," Kowalski smoothly counters transferring the money. Even after fifteen years in the business, Kowalski is amazed at how easily it is to turn someone into a contact given sufficient money. "Now what the hell is going on?"

"No one has a clear picture," Vagh'Bar sneers.

"Don't give me that shit. You are on Ty'Gokor. That is almost as good as being on Kronos itself. Now where the fuck is Gorkon," Kowalski demands. Section 31 has the best tech and surveillance gear in the galaxy but, as recently shown, is not infallible. He has no more than four minutes before the connection must be severed to ensure secrecy. Any comm can be broken given enough time.

"I do not know but it is known that several key members of the meH tlhe' wej SuvwI' have also come up missing," Vagh'Bar reports.

"Um hmmm. Names," Kowalski demands grabbing a stylus. As Vagh'Bar recites the six names, Kowalski lets his mind wander briefly to the name of the terrorist organization. meH tlhe' wej SuvwI' translates to Warriors of the Three Turn Bridge. The battle of the Three Turn Bridge, according to Klingon legends, was where Kahless the Unforgettable fought an entire army. Kowalski reflects on why terrorists come up with such stupid names. Shining Dawn, Revolutionary Struggle, Guiding Path, and Angels of Anarchy have been the most recent ones Sam and his team have had to deal with. Why they use such flowery titles is beyond Kowalski. They are murders and thieves not patriots as they always claim. This Klingon group is no different. They are in it for power and credits not for the betterment of their people which is what they always claim. Kowalski is surprised however that several names belong to members of the Klingon council. Maybe Gorkon is despised by more people than he thinks. "I need more than this Vagh'Bar," Kowalski orders setting the stylus down.

"There is no more," Vagh'Bar snarls. "No one has had any contact with Gorkon since the Federation accepted his proposal for peace. If you have done anything dishonorable the Klingon Empire will crush the Federation into dust."

"Yeah yeah we love you to and I have heard that before," Kowalski makes light of Vagh'Bar's threat. "I am contacting you in twelve hours. You are in the Hall of Warriors. Find me something more or the credit train will be derailed," he snaps ending the comm call before Vagh'Bar can comment. Kowalski's stride is strong and purposeful as he heads to Sam Kirk's office. Individuals that legitimately work for the Deneva Mining Corporation give him wide berth. No one is sure what Kowalski's job actually is in the company but all know what this fast, purposeful gait indicates. Kowalski is mad and everybody needs to steer clear of him. Kowalski forgoes knocking barging directly into Sam Kirk's office slapping the paper on the Director's desk. "This could be bigger than just Jim and the Enterprise being destroyed," he announces. Seeing the way Sam Kirk's face drops after reading the names Ka'Ak, Tanas, and Tre'gok tells Kowalski Sam has reached the same conclusion. "It might be a coup."

.

JIM'S OFFICE USS ENTERPRISE

No sooner does Jim sit at his desk does he hear the chime of the door to his office.

"Knock knock," Jack says from behind the closed door.

"Go away Jack," Jim says knowing who is at the door.

Jack palms the door open hearing the humorous but annoyed tone from his commander. "No can do boss," Jack replies entering the room. He was not invited so he hangs by the door not taking a seat.

Jim flings the stylus from his hand on to the desk. "Stop," Jim orders holding up a hand. "For the record, request it off the record. You are obviously not going to let this go. If we are doing it…it will be by the book. I am not sure I want this conversation recorded for posterity. Plus it will save me a ton of paperwork and having to charge you with something." Jack grins leaning against the wall seeing the 'we are not doing this again' smile on Jim's face. "But first hear this. I am the Captain. As your friend I have asked you not come to Upsilon Cerberus VI but AS you Captain I can make it an order. Please don't make me officially order it or explain my reasons. You may not like what you hear," Jim says leaning back in his chair. "So proceed with caution."

"Permission to speak freely sir," Jack asks following the rules. Jim is far more lenient with his crew than even he might be. Jim is extending him two courtesies as a friend but the problem is Jack would not let a friend do what Jim is suggesting. He decides to forgo caution. Jim's veiled threat will occur whether Jack beats around the bush or plows straight through. "This…just the two of you thing is suicide," Jack announces taking the direct route. "What are you doing man? Talk to me," Jack pleads trying to understand Jim's angle. Jim is reckless and impulsive but not stupid.

Jim sighs deeply before responding. "Do you trust me, Jack?"

Jim's words are loaded. "Yes but I don't understand you. I would not do this and we typically are always on the same wavelength."

Jim asks another question without expanding on his first. "Do you really think I would gamble with her life?" Put my daughter's life in danger without a care or a thought?"

"For crying out loud Jim they already tried to kill Gorkon. I almost lost my family over pride and blind dedication. Don't make the same mistake," Jack warns.

"Blind dedication?" Jim makes a face like he has tasted something bad. "Do you really think this is over dedication to Star Fleet? That if it was between the job and her I would not give up the Enterprise in a heartbeat?" Jim leans forward more serious than Jack has seen him in a long time. "We are walking on a razors edge. One side is war and the other peace. We can't fall off or falter through our words and actions."

"That is where we thrive you and I. On the edge," Jack agrees. "But we have kids now. We have to think things through. If something ever happened I would take care of her like she is my own but you are her father. She needs you and not another replacement."

Jack has crossed a line and he sees it clearly on Jim's face. "Don't bring her into this," Jim warns pointing a finger at Jack. "If she did not have to be there she wouldn't be. I don't have the luxury Jack to sit across from my commanding officer and demand he not do it his way. I don't care what you would do. I am taking the chance on peace. Kate and I have discussed this at length. She is wrong about so many things but the New Republic is the model for which I strive. The Federation can be that great with millions of species living in peace. I want that for her…for me. Someone has to take the first step. How do we know this is not it? But it is our gamble not yours," Jim finally explains his angle. Jack sees he is not being stubborn but a dreamer.

"We don't know if this is a trap or a genuine extension of friendship but we do know that someone tried to kill Gorkon. Your right, I am not in your position. But if I was and I had to take John or Ronin into that situation I would not go in without back up. Doing that is arrogant Jim," Jack shoots back.

"Arrogant?" Jim reels at the insult. "You are cynical and pessimistic," Jim throws his assessment of Jack back at him. "As a chief of security, cynicism and pessimism is the thing that keeps the people around you alive. As a diplomat it destroys trust. That is why you can't come down. Why I won't let you come down. From the beginning you have been level headed and thought everything through from a safety standpoint. That is your job and why I am the luckiest son of a bitch to have you on my crew. Having said that," Jim amends the compliment, "you are the only one that is not willing to take a chance. I have never imposed my will or thoughts on your individual families but Bones, Scotty, and Sulu have come to the idea they will take a chance on peace on their own. You won't bring your family because you are so sure it is a trap. I respect that. I respect your opinion and stance but I can't have Alpha crew there and not my COS. It would be perceived wrong so I am bringing no one." Jim sees his words have shocked Jack. "I told you to proceed with caution. You wanted the truth and now you have it."

"You are saying you are not letting us go because I am doing my job?" Jack shakes his head trying to process the information.

"You do your job too well but this time I can't have your cynicism. I need those willing to take a chance because they want to and not because I am ordering it. I also can't have you up here with them down there." Jim repeats his reason for not letting anyone attend the ceremony. "Too much is riding on this. I am sorry Jack." Jim picks up the stylus indicating the conversation is closed.

"You are not ordering me to do anything. I'm volunteering to protect your silly ass," Jack tries to keep the conversation open.

"Why the hell do I hire people who challenge me? Why could I not approve sycophants and ladders climbers?" Jim finally looks up. He needs Jack to know this is not personal. That he respects the man more than he knows. This decision is a command decision and not a character one. "Why the hell did you have to request this ship? Why can't I have someone like Dawson in charge of security?"

Jack feels better knowing Jim's reason. He doesn't like it but understands it. "Because Dawson is an idiot sir and the ship would be a nut house," Jack tries to find a balance.

"Easier to win arguments with though," Jim laughs going back to his paperwork. "And you think the ship is normal? Go home Jack. Go home and have a few drinks. You are more fun with a few drinks and tonight is going to suck ass."

Jack knows that there is no changing Jim's mind. At least he knows the reason behind Jim's decision. "Yes sir. See you at dinner."

Jim continues to study the PADD in front of him. "Yep. Later Jack."

.

STARFLEET HEADQUARTERS

Cadets and other personnel create a wide swath of hallway as Admiral Pike's cane beat out a steady klaxon announcing his approach. He was not the type of officer that strikes fear or hatred but today no one wants to incur his wrath. The meeting between the Kirk and Gorkon was never going to stay a secret but the details were. Just as Sam Kirk predicted the USS Eagle and the USS Newton could not detect a warp signature anywhere around Delta Vargon II at the appointed time. Spock Prime had tried for hours to contact Chancellor Gorkon to no avail. The room is in an uproar as Pike enters the main conference room of Star Fleet command.

"I told you Komack you were marching Jim into a death sentence," Archer roars spittle flying from his lips.

"Kirk's a loose cannon. He probably just ignored orders like always but you can't see that. You are so blinded by your faith in that man you believe anything he says. Hell he could shit on a plate, serve it to you for dinner, and you would ask for seconds," Komack yells back.

Archer pulls back and cold cocks Komack in the jaw forcing various officers to pull the two men apart. "Has Spock Prime been able to reach the Chancellor?" Pike asks calmly taking a seat. Everyone follows his lead sitting back down. "Jim did not blatantly ignore the order Komack. Let's see what we can do about finding him before we court martial him for insubordination," Pike offers in a thin voice.

Captain Bannock, having been at the Deneva conference and met Chancellor Gorkon, reports on the latest news. "Yes sir. Spock Prime has made contact with Chancellor Gorkon. We are awaiting his communiqué as we speak." Pike nods affirmation.

"So let's form a plan if the Chancellor does not have news that satisfies us," Pike suggests. Several officers begin to shout out ideas. Pike looks at Archer hoping he thinks one of the various ideas presented will be viable. Archer shakes his head no. This silent motion let's fear and anxiety creep up Pike's spine.