Chapter 807
GNN
THE NEXT MORNING
"Ladies and Gentlemen, we have just been notified by the office of the President of the Federation that President Bennet will be making a Presidential Address in fifteen minutes. This will be carried live in the Sol system and broadcast to every corner of the Federation. The rest of the Federation will be virtually watching it live except for the time delay it takes subspace radio to travel." Turning to his co-host the anchor said. "Leslie, this is unusual."
Leslie smiled and nodded, "Yes, Barry it is. It is rare that the President makes a live broadcast, and even though far-flung parts of the Federation will only be getting this tomorrow, it can be considered live for them as they will have the same warning as we just had. What do you think it will be concerning?"
Barry put on his intellectual look on his face. "The Office of the President has not told us or provided us a copy of the address. This is most unusual, as prior notice gives news outlets a chance to provide the public with proper background and analysis. What do you think it is about?"
Leslie was used to this treatment. Barry said absolutely nothing, but looked intelligent in saying it. "I think it probably has to do with the Starfleet Oversight Committee. Yesterday was opening day and it ended with some fireworks concerning Senator Jameson."
"That is right, Leslie. He was calling Klingon Officer Kang to testify about a Starship Captain, and was blocked."
Leslie nodded, "Barry, we don't know what the President is going to talk about. But I'm thinking that in light of Starfleet's conflict with the Klingons recently."
KLINGON EMBASSY
PARIS
The four were sitting down to a typical Klingon morning meal. Kang asked, "So what happened today? What is the truth?"
Gorkon drank from his flask. "We now know what Jameson is up to. He is trying to poison your testimony about Jacobs. He is using your son's life to do that."
Kor said, "He does not know what he is playing with. To treat a Klingon's honor so frivolously…"
Gorkon nodded. "Exactly. Federation politicians often cannot see beyond their own agenda."
Kang added, "Or Klingon politicians for that matter."
Gorkon chuckled, "I was wondering if you were becoming too polite. Yes, we have some experience with Klingon politicians and their agenda."
"Yes, we do." Kor agreed. "Before we get to that, this Senator Jameson has no idea what can happen today, does he?"
Gorkon grimly shook his head. "No, he does not. And I cannot interfere. I did not think it would come to this, but it has. He is playing with Klingon Honor."
Torg scoffed, "It would be better for him to play with weapons grade plutonium."
Gorkon nodded. "Yes, it would. Now you see what is the difficulty with dealing with the Federation. Starfleet understands us, the politicians do not. Senator Jameson has no idea what will happen if it is determined that Kang's son acted dishonorably."
Kang had a heaviness about him. Kor looked at Kang. "Cheer up, brother! Do not be worried. Do you not think that all will be well? Jacobs will be sensitive to what is happening. He will tell the truth, without embellishment."
Gorkon watched the interaction. It was fascinating. Kor had compassion for Kang. Friendship? Hardly believable. "You never explained to me how the two of you settled your blood fued."
Kang was still silent. Kor took another lung of Breckt and chomped in it with vigor. "Yes, well it started when Chancellor Bogkor wanted me to torture Kang's Jup-qorDu to reveal a secret Federation base."
Gorkon blinked at the bluntness of the statement. That summed the first portion adequately. "Yes, but that would make me want to kill you even more."
"I almost did." Kang stated flatly.
"Why didn't you?"
"Because Kor asked me for an hour of my time, then I could kill him if I wanted." Kang answered. "He was very earnest. Absolutely not concerned with death. I also picked up that he was very concerned for me." Gorkon blinked. "Yes, Ambassador. That was it. Kor was extremely concerned that I hear him out not for his sake but mine. I got that message, so I heard him out."
Gorkon leaned forward. "I got to hear this."
Kang looked at Kor. "You tell it well, brother."
Kor smiled. "Kang, God has used your predicament in honor to wet Ambassador Gorkon's appetite." Kor looked at Gorkon. "It has to do with the hope that lives within us."
Gorkon stated, "I don't know what you mean."
Kor smiled, "I was hoping you would say that…"
CONFERENCE ROOM
STARFLEET OFFICE BUILDING
PARIS, EARTH
The doors opened to the large conference room. In walked Captain Jacobs, Commander Leonaidas, Lt Cdrs Jareau and Grimm, and Lt Kenn. Everyone turned and Admiral Nogura said, "Good morning! I hope you all came hungry. My chef has breakfast served along the wall."
"Thank you, Admiral. I believe we will dig in." Jacobs looked at Admiral Kirk, "Admiral, good to see you."
The two shook hands. Kirk smiled and said, "You too. You've faced death but now is your greatest challenge, an investigation."
Jacobs chuckled and checked the clock. "It's almost time."
Nogura said. "Yes, it is, so grab your food and sit down. We will be carrying it on the monitors. Do you have everything you need?"
Jacobs motioned to Jareau, who held up a datapad. "It is all there. We are all carrying a copy of the presentation, but JJ is going to manage the media portion."
Nogura smiled graciously at Jareau. "Lieutenant Commander, I look forward to seeing your work."
"It was not me, Admiral. It was a collaboration. Mr. Grimm and I were there on the Wolverine, we knew how to help the captain tell the story. As for how far we go sir, that is all up to you."
Admiral Nogura nodded, "We will determine that shortly, first, the President is coming on. Commander Ressler?"
Ressler touched a few buttons and the big screens on the sides of the room came alive showing every major news outlet in the Sol system. The News outlets did follow through with their promise of carrying the address. Normally Presidential Addresses happen in the evening Paris time, but this is the morning. Ressler knew which one that Admiral Nogura wanted to watch and selected that channel. The image went large to the normal format, and the spare area on the viewscreen showed the other channels in smaller format. The audio was of the large, selected channel. Soon, the Presidential screen splash showed up on all the screens then went to the President's Office with the President sitting behind his desk.
"Dear Federation Citizens, this is President Bennet speaking to you from the Presidential Office at the Federation Capital in Paris, Earth. I thank you for taking time at short notice to see or listen to my address. To respect your time, I will try to take as little of your time today to explain something that is extremely important."
"In one hour, the Senate Starfleet Oversight committee will be starting its second day of hearings concerning recent Starfleet actions surrounding the Starship USS Wisconsin. Some of you may not be familiar with the USS Wisconsin, it is one of our new generation of starships, an Enterprise class. It was built to similar specifications as the famed USS Enterprise that has recently been refit, but the Wisconsin made entirely new from the keel up."
"The Wisconsin has been flying for the Federation for a year now, and the Starfleet Oversight Committee is going over some of the adventures that it has had. I watched with great interest yesterday as they started, and it promises to be very enlightening. For instance, the Wisconsin has had a few interactions that I would characterize as 'key' with the Klingon Empire this past year. As you well know, we are in a very tenuous peace agreement with the Klingons. Senator Jameson made an allegation yesterday that threatens that peace. He made an allegation about the Captain of the Wisconsin that makes the captain look like he acted in a dishonorable manner years ago during the time of the great Exploration of space after the Organian treaty was imposed."
"Senator Jameson made this allegation in such a way that Captain Jacobs, the captain of the Wisconsin, cannot respond adequately to defend himself. The concern I have is that this allegation threatens the peace between us and the Klingon Empire. I have been a friend of Senator Jameson's for years, but I cannot allow his actions to threaten the Federation."
"The reason Captain Jacobs cannot respond is that the incident that Senator Jameson obliquely referred to is classified. Not only Captain Jacobs, but there are others that fall under this classification as well. Many ships have had incidents that have been classified, and none of the crews can talk about them. I know of these incidents, what was behind them, and I believe that to preserve the peace with the Klingons, that Captain Jacobs needs to tell his side of the story. Also, for Federation Citizens to make good decisions in electing their political leaders, they need to know what happened. And for that reason, the entire file is going to be declassified."
"The reason I classified this incident which you are about to hear and others were at Senator Jameson's urging years ago. The classification concerns many skirmishes we have had with the Klingons after the Organian treaty was imposed. Yes, I said after. There is a common myth that the Organians would stop any hostile act between the Federation and the Klingon Empire. Truth is far from that. I realize to keep those incidents classified was a grave mistake on my part, and I intend to correct that misjudgment. You will find out exactly how many other incidents there were, and the specifics in them in the next few days. For today, you will hear of one incident. The first incident."
"By Presidential Order, I'm declaring classified file PEANUTBUTTER to be declassified. This order has already gone out in the Starfleet computer network and can be accessed fully by any officer. I encourage every Starfleet Officer and crewman that has had to keep quiet over the last few years because of this classification to tell their story truthfully. Let us honor the brave men and women who have fought and died for the Federation by remembering their sacrifice."
"I will be watching with great interest the entire story of Captain Jacobs' interaction with the ship of Kang's son. I know the reports, this is the first time I get to hear from somebody that was there. I know the Klingons will watch with interest. I encourage all of you to please watch the hearings, even beyond what happens today."
"Thank you, I'm President Bennet."
The room was silent for a while. Nogura turned to the officers of the Wisconsin, "Captain Jacobs, Lt Cdr Grimm, Lt Cdr Jareau, I want you to hold nothing back. President Bennet followed through on his promise. Captain Jackson?"
Hank Jackson looked at Admiral Nogura. Nogura said, "Remember the general strategy. Keep throwing things out there to make him rattled. Be respectful enough not to get hit with insubordination, but keep it coming. You did well yesterday. So good you might never make Admiral." There were chuckles. Nogura continued. "I'll lobby for your first star when that time comes."
Jackson said, "I'd rather go down fighting, Admiral. This is a worthy fight."
Nogura nodded then looked around. "If nothing else, let's get moving."
GNN
Barry was speechless. Leslie took the gap in airtime and started talking, "And that was President Bennet, speaking on this declassified file. The file sounds like a collection of incidents that Starfleet has been involved in." Leslie touched her earpiece to make sure she heard correctly. "And I just heard that GNN will be preempting programming to carry the Starfleet Oversight hearings. We look forward to finding out exactly what was in this file PEANUTBUTTER."
IGN
"This is a an incredible newsday, President Bennet has just declassified a classified file, and we have no idea what it even points at. The best that we can delve from his address is that it involves Starfleet ships having confrontations with the Klingons after the Organian treaty was imposed."
"If you remember, the Organian treaty was declared null by the Klingons this past year when it was discovered that something killed off the Organians."
The Anchor's partner just looked up, "Stan, I've just confirmed, it was the Wisconsin that confirmed the Organians were dead. That event must also be covered during the hearings."
"I'm sure it will be too, Gru. Senator Jameson was a longtime opponent of Starfleet during the Klingon war. He has led the charge to change what Starfleet was into the primarily exploratory organization that it is today. The reason why the USS Wisconsin has been on his target list is because this starship is a throwback to a time past."
"How so?"
"The Wisconsin's Captain, Captain Jacobs I believe the President said, wanted certain changes in the design. As it turned out, the changes were minor, the ship can maneuver slightly without any power. It also has a couple of old shuttles if I remember right. I do remember that Senator Jameson was opposed to the formation of the ships' non-standard security force. Jameson was instrumental in Starfleet disbanding the Marines after the Klingon war, when the great age of exploration began. He convinced the committee and then chief of Starfleet Operations to disband the Marines in favor of a less threatening force."
"I do remember those hearings. We will review those hearings to see how they factor in today."
"Actually, they already did factor in. Captain Jacobs was still allowed to form an elite force of security officers. And it was that force that rescued Senator Jameson. Senator Jameson's nephew talked a bit about that yesterday." Stan touched his earpiece. "Our producers just told me that IGN will be carrying the hearings live. We also have found out that our channel will be broadcasting it to our affiliates across the Federation, as this concerns more than just here on Earth."
IQR-VIDEO
"We are trying to find out exactly what was in the classified file. With the Starfleet hearings starting in just a half hour now, it may be quicker to find out what is in the file by simply watching the hearing. So far, our Starfleet sources are not getting back to us yet as to what was in the file. It is perhaps too much info to simply digest in minutes."
"IQR will be preempting programming to cover these hearings."
SENATOR JAMESON'S OFFICE
PARIS, EARTH
Eli Gold surprised himself. He felt relieved. Where did that come from? Was it that he knew that Jameson was not going to be able to railroad Captain Jacobs like he did so many others? Jameson finally met his match. Jameson had no idea that Jacobs was able to get this declassification done. How did Jacobs get this done? What hold did Jacobs have over the President? No, something else was at work.
Was it that same, invisible power that kept him on Starbase 5 before the Klingon attack? No, not that either. Sure, it was a collaboration of the transport companies, but it was more than that. It was as if a door had been closed that no one could open, and at the same time a way of surviving the potential invasion was opened to him that he had no idea even existed. There was something at work.
And now it was working against Jameson. Was that accurate? Not entirely. Was it working for Jacobs? Not really. It was working for some other reason, and that all Eli Gold could say was good. Jacobs was on the side of this 'good'. Cogley was on the side of this 'good'. This 'good' was working some incredible power, to get politicians with wills of their own to bend to it. Gold could see that the truth about PEANUTBUTTER would serve the Federation well. Jameson's own power base was going to be hurt, no not hurt, seriously damaged. Jameson depended on the public not knowing the truth about the Organians.
Even when it was discovered about the Organians being dead, the deals were already in place. Money and Power. And it all flowed through Jameson. And now Gold was seeing that despite the power of Jameson, it wasn't able to compare to this unseen but unmistakable power that is affecting high government places.
Gold looked at Jameson, who was ranting and yelling and swearing up a storm. He did not even hear Jameson. Jameson was not saying anything important. Which side will Gold be on? He was serving this guy. Jameson just spouted about some of 'his' companies, companies that were doing kickbacks. Oh, those will need to go in the 'unclassified' folder now. Gold started typing.
"You get all that Eli?!"
Gold looked up, "Every word sir. We need to get going, we've got to get set up for the hearing."
"But how can we stop it?"
Gold thought about it. He was still working for Jameson, for now he will try his best, but his scheming heart was not in it anymore. Rather, he was more and more disgusted as to what he was part of these past years. "Sir, there is not enough time. I think it's inevitable. I think instead of stopping it, you need to come up with explanations as to why you wanted these events classified."
"OF COURSE, I WANTED THEM CLASSIFIED!"
"Yes sir, I know fully why you wanted them classified. What I'm referring to is what the public will accept as a reason for classifying them. We have much more at stake here sir."
Jameson blinked, "What do you mean?"
"According to the news feeds, and reviewing what Captain Kang and Ambassador Gorkon said, it now depends on what Captain Jacobs says."
Jameson shook his head. "I don't get it."
"Don't you see? You've put the Federation into a position where we may be at war with the Klingons again. And it all depends on what Captain Jacobs says. You are going to be seen as the one who brought us again to the brink of war, and if Captain Jacobs satisfies Klingon Honor today, he will be the one who keeps us out of it. Your own arrogance and lust for power has put you in an unwinnable position."
"You can't speak to me like that!" Jameson yelled.
Gold just said, "You pay me to be your advisor, your coordinator, your operative. I'm not your yes man. I'm speaking truth to you, and you need to hear it. It's funny, but Captain Jackson was exactly right. What's even funnier is that Jacobs didn't 'do it' to you, you 'did it' to yourself."
"What do you mean?"
Gold looked at the time, "We don't have time sir, we got to get to the chamber. My advice is to stop thinking on trying to ruin Jacobs. I don't think you are able to do it." Jameson gave a sharp look. Gold continued. "If I were you sir, you should think of damage control, not offense."
An idea came to Jameson. "I'll block it at the hearing. Get me bim Freshligm!"
Gold touched a few buttons while Jameson fumed looking at some documents. Soon Gold touched the comm button on Jameson's desk. "Senator bim Freshligm, here is Senator Jameson."
"Not a good time to talk Charles."
Jameson calmed himself down. "Really quick then Girk. I need you to make a motion to change the subject away from Jacobs testifying today."
"Why would I want to do that?"
"What he says will not further our cause. It may have blowback."
The Tellarite gave a good snort. "I'm sure it will. As I said yesterday, I want to hear what Jacobs says. Now more than ever, I really want to hear. What have you been keeping from the rest of us, Charles?"
Jameson actually felt the blood drain from his fingers. "Nothing! Don't you see, if Jacobs testifies, we'll be back at war with the Klingons!"
Bim Freshligm was not buying it. "Then you never should have brought this up!"
"I didn't expect Bennet to declassify it!"
"What exactly is 'it'?" The Tellarite snorted. "I sense a larger play going on here. For one, I want to ask the Excalibur Captain what happened out there. Something is not playing well here Charles and all the pieces are right in front of us, and now you want to change the subject? For that matter, I've never heard of PEANUTBUTTER. It sounds like there is more to learn. No. See you in five minutes in the hearing room."
Gold said, "We need to get moving."
Jameson was angry, "I pay you to give me solutions!"
Gold nodded, "Yes, but there is a limit to what I can do sir. You have put yourself into this position, you were focusing on Jacobs and forgot your plan. Why?" An idea came, "Hate? Do you hate him?"
Jameson jumped out of his seat fast for the portly man. "I DO HATE HIM! HE IS A MENACE." Jameson snarled, "That man is costing me millions. I got to squash him now and forever. I take him down and it will keep Starfleet the way it's been for the last several years."
Gold thought this hatred explains his irrationality. After these hearings are done, Gold is going to find a time to quit. He did not want to be involved with Jameson's Presidential Campaign. This job isn't any fun anymore. Was it ever fun? Maybe, but not really. That's something to think on later. "Sir, I suggest you get rid of your hate. You're mad and not thinking clearly."
"Since when have you ever told me anything like that?! Eli, I pay you to solve problems. Now figure a way out of this one!"
Gold nodded, "Sir, you pay me to accomplish your will, not to fix problems. You've just set in motion events that I can't stop. It's like trying to stop the Moon orbiting the Earth. It's going to continue no matter what we do. First thing is we get going to the hearing room. We are going to be late. That never looks good, and we are going to have to manage your public image greatly this week. Like I said before, you need to be thinking damage control."
SENATE HEARING ROOM
FEDERATION CAPITAL
PARIS, EARTH
People were still milling around and the room was filled with idle chatter. There was a different level of chatter in the room from any other 'normal' hearing. There was a sense of anticipation. Jacobs walked in with the other Starfleet Officers. The Klingons were already at 'their' table. Jacobs was bemused, but given the seriousness of the hearing, did not feel like chuckling. Jacobs met Kang's gaze. So typical of a Klingon. Never be afraid of eye contact. Jacobs gathered that Kang's son was involved in the incident to be discussed, but had no idea what part. Jacobs gave a slight nod. Kang just held his gaze in true Klingon intimidation. Jacobs could understand given the circumstances.
They sat down, looked up at the Senators who were sitting or standing and talking with each other or their aids. Notably late, was Senator Jameson. Well first good news is that he looked angry. If Jameson was not angry, then this was going to be a problem.
Jameson sat down and gaveled the hearing to order. "Given the nature of the expected testimony of Captain Jacobs, the chair would entertain a motion to move on to other subjects." The room's background noise increased suddenly. Jameson gaveled. "Is there anyone who would like to move on?"
Silence. Senator April finally said, "Even though it's not needed, I would like to make a motion to allow Jacobs to continue on."
"Seconded."
Jameson asked, "Any discussion?"
There was none. "All in favor raise your hand or tentacle." All of April's party raised theirs. Added to that was bim Freshligm. Jameson gave the Tellarite a nasty look. Bim Freshligm gave a nasty one back. "All opposed?" Bim Freshligm's vote made it a moot point, but it was procedure. "Motion carries by one vote. Captain Jacobs, please give us your presentation."
Jacobs nodded. "I would like to make a statement before starting the testimony."
Jameson said, "Absolutely not. I…"
April said, "Captain is it relevant to the hearing?"
Jacobs nodded, "Yes, it is. Senator Jameson yesterday attempted to impugn my character with Kang to affect Kang's testimony. Senator Jameson now has officially made my character part of the objective of the hearings. As such, I feel the need for some background for the committee, Kang, The Klingon Empire, and anyone else who either watches or reads these hearings to make an accurate assessment of my character."
April nodded. "I move to allow Captain Jacobs a statement before today's testimony."
The motion passed. Jameson was starting to feel a bit panicked. He could not stop this. There is literally nothing he can do. "Go ahead Captain." He said in resignation.
Jacobs nodded and looked at his pad for the statement. "For four years I have had to keep the truth of this incident quiet. Information from this incident at a very minimum should have been allowed to be passed around Starfleet to raise awareness. It also should have been passed to the relevant intelligence agencies, to my knowledge it was not. Whether or not incidents in file PEANUTBUTTER should have been made public is a decision left to elected officials. Please note that it was the elected officials that kept this information secret, not Starfleet."
"I have been in Starfleet for over twenty years now including my time at the academy. The people that trained me and mentored me were the most honorable that I've known. The focus has been to serve the Federation. There are many stories that Federation citizens were in dire straits, desperate conditions, or no hope of rescue or protection until Starfleet came along. I have considered it my duty to uphold the best of Starfleet's traditions and to add to the reputation of Starfleet not only to the Federation but all whoever we came across."
"Along the way many sacrifices were made. I have lost countless friends and shipmates during the Klingon war, during the exploratory time afterwards, and this past year as the Wisconsin's Captain. Those that have lost their lives gave the ultimate sacrifice in protecting others, and I count their deaths as honorable. For me to act dishonorably or dishonestly would not only reflect on me, but also on their service as well, and I cannot let that happen."
"At first, these hearings were called to review the Wisconsin's first year in space. No other starship has undergone scrutiny such as this. The Wisconsin has already been reviewed by Starfleet Command and found the actions are consistent with Federation law and Starfleet Regulations. As I said before, Senator Jameson called into question my character, thereby changing the focus of the hearings to be on me. Senator Jameson has a well-documented animas toward me and the Wisconsin, please review the Wisconsin commissioning hearings. However, looking at this objectively, Senator Jameson's ultimate agenda I believe lies beyond attempting to ruin myself. I cannot allow myself to be so self-centered to think that Senator Jameson is solely after me. He is using the attacks on me to discredit Starfleet and create crises to further enhance his 'need to become President'."
Jameson, red-faced, jumped out of his seat and yelled, "STOP MAKING POLITICAL COMMENTS, THE ELECTION SHOULD HAVE NO BEARING ON YOUR STATEMENT!"
Jacobs calmly said, "Not at all, Senator. Committee members, please be aware of what goes on the next few days and see how Senator Jameson will try to discredit Starfleet by ruining my character and what has happened this past year. This incident is a great example, Senator Jameson uses information discussed to further his Presidential Campaign. He states he wants Kang from the Klingons to testify, but just before Kang starts, Senator Jameson alludes that I wrongfully killed his son. Why bring that up? It is obvious to me that he is trying to influence Kang's testimony about me. After the hearing, Senator Jameson goes out and now changes this allegation into that I murdered the son of Kang. Senator Jameson does this knowing that I cannot respond because the incident is classified. I cannot even acknowledge that it is classified. He knows what the truth is, he encouraged the President to classify this incident and many others."
"Knowing that this is how he has operated in my case, it does beg the question on how many others has Senator Jameson used this modus operandi with? How many other officers has he ruined because he was able to attack them in a way that they could not respond because of secrecy rules that Senator Jameson knew about? If the answer to this question is anything else but 'none,' then it does beg the question of Senator Jameson's character. This committee has witnessed such events, of questioning of people who could not answer, and were badgered because of no answer. Were any of you complicit in the persecution of innocent people? The questioning of Captain Jackson yesterday is a great example, so now we know he has used this method on at least two Captains. How many more?"
Cogley was watching the reactions of the senators. He and Jacobs had theorized on who would be triggered by this. The prediction was spot on who was complicit. Cogley changed the position of his hands slightly, signaling that they were still on plan. Jacobs continued after a short but deafening pause. "If there is anything that I've learned over the years, it is that bullies or dishonorable people will use you as long as it benefits them, then they will throw you away or turn on you. I am raising a warning to anyone that has been under Senator Jameson's influence: Beware because he will turn on you too."
Jacobs continued. "To return to the matter at hand, I have looked forward to discussing this incident fully for a long time. The only thing I desire is that the complete truth comes out. I look forward to your questions after the presentation. Thank you, President Bennet, for having the courage to declassify file PEANUTBUTTER. It goes beyond a strategic awareness whose time is now past. It will allow many people to start a healing process over loved ones that gave their lives."
Cogley pointed to a number on the datapad. Jacobs took note of it. "While I'm not an expert in mass media. It looks like there is a large viewership of the hearings today. Thank you, viewers and readers of these hearings. Please continue to watch and read the entire hearings to make an educated opinion."
"Thank you, Committee members for setting into motion events that allow full disclosure. I ask you to please put yourselves in the different individual's positions as they learn of events happening. From yesterday, please put yourself in the cell with Ensign Kenn, with broken legs, starving, and no hope of rescue. Please put yourself in with the other hostages whose future is to be sold into slavery or worse, please put yourself into the freighter crew who must be constantly concerned about attack from pirates." Jacobs noted Bim Freshligm's expression, and Jacobs responded with a nod. "And put yourself into Commander Bauer's split-second decision to rescue a hostage by killing the Norsican beside him. Please consider these actions and more as the hearings progress. Let the Officers of Starfleet tell their story completely. Then make the decision if it was honorable. Thank you, that concludes my statement."
Jameson exploded again, "How dare you attack me in this hearing!"
Captain Jackson was sitting in a relaxed position and laughed, "You call that an attack? That is what we call a 'frontal assault,' Senator." Jameson was dumbfounded. "Senator, this is not what I was warning you of. A frontal assault is something I would do; Captain Jacobs has not even begun his stuff yet." Jackson gave a knowing look. "It's not too late for you to try to understand him and become friends. He has that effect on people."
"Captain Jackson! I…"
Senator April shut him down. "I think it is time to start the testimony. Captain Jacobs, please begin."
Eli Gold had to stifle a laugh. He coughed and held his hand up to his face covering a smile. What a way to put it. A lot of things that Jacobs had done this past year were coming to mind. What Jackson said was true. Jacobs is doing it right now with Senator Bim Freshligm. From Jameson's party and there is a convert! He could tell from Bim Freshligm's posture during the comment about freighter crews that Bim Freshligm liked what Jacobs had said.
Jacobs touched a couple of buttons on his pad and the lights dimmed slightly. The screens came alive with a Derf class tender floating in space. The perspective was moving around the ship showing various angles. "Stardate 6615 I was in command of the USS Wolverine, a Derf class tender. Our mission was simple: lay down and repair communications and navigations buoys. Our assignment was Starbase 5, so our operations area was in the sector from Starbase 5 up to the Klingon Neutral zone. We would also assist in ship's repairs of front-line ships, but the buoy tender was our main task.
The screens switched to the interior of the bridge. It was an old-style bridge, classic lines and colors. Along with that the uniforms were of the previous era as well. Command Golds, Engineering Reds were most prevalent and an occasional Blue Science came through. Jacobs was talking to an officer in red. Lt Jareau turned around and said, "Sir, I'm getting a ship's distress call. It's the Enterprise!"
Jacobs turned and walked up to the upper level of the bridge. She was working the controls. "It's automated."
"Where are they?" Jacobs asked.
"System PKX-2671. But sir, the signal isn't from there." Jareau added.
Jacobs turned to the navigator. "That's one day from here at maximum warp." Lt Gav Globnec said with a Tellarite snort.
Jacobs turned back to Jareau. "What's the mystery, JJ?"
"My instruments show it's about a parsec away, well away from that system. It sounds like a message buoy. But the location is interstellar space." Jareau said.
"Let's listen to it."
They could hear Uhura's voice. "This is the USS Enterprise. We are in system PXK-2671. Stardate 6614.5 We have been attacked by three Klingon vessels. Identity of the Klingon task force is D7 Seq, D5 Ghobe Targ, and Bird of Prey Roj. We have sustained heavy damage in an extended conflict and with the ships jamming, are unable to send a subspace message. This message is from a message torpedo. Coordinates are encoded at the end of the message." The message repeated.
Jareau looked up at Jacobs, "I have the coordinates, the message is encoded in the proper Starfleet code."
Jacobs asked, "Message torpedo?"
Simmons said, "It's an old idea Commander Scott and I have had. Basically, attach a message buoy to a torpedo and launch. When it gets far enough it will start transmitting. It helps keep the exact location of the ship secret."
Jacobs would have had a lighter hearted response, but not today. "No idea what their damage is. Let's assume the worst. Simmons, how long to dump the buoy you're working on?"
"Five minutes."
"Ok, dump it." Simmons started working at the engineering station. Jacobs walked down to the command chair and pushed the PA button. "All hands, this is the Captain. We are going to be answering a distress call from the Enterprise, I'll give more information as we get it ourselves. Prepare for warp in five minutes."
Lt Globnec said, "Course laid in."
Lt Bradshaw at helm said, "Helm ready."
After a short time, Commander Simmons said, "Engineering reports ready."
Jacobs ordered, "Mr. Bradshaw, maximum warp."
The ship turned and shot off into space.
"Captain's log Stardate 6615.9 We are entering the star system that the Enterprise is in distress. We have forwarded the information to Starbase 5, and have not had a reply as the return time is insufficient. Our course to rendezvous with the Enterprise is already plotted, they are hiding in an asteroid field. Already, we are experiencing heavy jamming and I'm assuming the Klingons have monitored our approach. Once we drop out of warp, it will be difficult to detect us, and I'm planning on making it difficult as possible."
"We've been using the Klingons' own jamming as a way to locate where they are. They are still in a search pattern, so presumably they have not found the Enterprise yet. Our path is going to be a circuitous path, just to make sure we don't come across any Klingon listening devices and give away Enterprise's position. We will also drop a message buoy to update Starfleet with all the data that we have." Jacobs pushed the log button.
"All right, let's slow to full impulse." The ship came out of warp and a message buoy was dropped. "How long before it starts transmitting JJ?"
"I programmed six hours or if it detects a warp signature nearby. Mr. Globnec said the Klingons couldn't get here quicker without warping."
Jacobs nodded at Globnec. "Good thinking Gav."
"Thank you, sir."
Jacobs turned around to face the science and communications stations. "Viben, JJ, let's go to EMCON."
The two nodded and secured all electronic emissions. JJ made a PA, "All ships personnel, we are now at EMCON. All wireless devices need to physically plug in to communicate."
Senator Bim Freshligm asked, "Captain, if I may ask."
"Please, Senator."
"What is EMCON?"
Jacobs answered. "It's an old Earth term for Emmisions Control. It's not a Starfleet Protocol, but one that Commander Simmons and I cooked up enroute to somewhere sometime. It's borrowed from the idea that you can track a ship just by the electronics radiating out from it such as sensors, subspace radio, personal communicators, even the Friebergers that the Tricorders use. When we go to EMCON, nothing is transmitted even in the ship. We did not want any chance of our position being given away."
Bim Freshligm continued asking. "Was it effective?"
"It's been effective in some of my other engagements. I've passed this through other ship's captains and have heard it works. The tradeoff is that you can only track items passively, and that takes time and introduces error." Jacobs said.
Admiral Kirk added, "To add to that, it's now taught at the Academy as a standard tactic and is used in fleet tactics."
"And your Navigator?"
"Mr. Globnec? He was excellent. During EMCON, the work on the navigator increases as he uses bearing-only readings to generate known positions. He works closely with the Science station being manned by Mr. Viben. During this engagement, his calculations were spot-on."
"Captain's log, Stardate 6616.3 We are just about to rendezvous with the Enterprise. Our readings have shown that the Klingons have formed up into formation since our arrival in the system. So far, the Klingons have no idea where we are, although I suspect they probably sent a shuttlecraft after our message buoy."
"Captain, we are at the coordinates. I strongly suspect that asteroid ahead as the one the Enterprise is at." Globnec said.
"Sir, the Asteroid is essentially a gravel pile. Largest rock I can see now is eleven meters across. Average rock size is one centimeter." Viben said.
Jacobs turned, "Have you been keeping a tally of asteroid composition?"
"The best I can. I'm using only optical means so far. We are at about 2/3 rocks with holes and 1/3 gravel right now."
Jacobs nodded. "Well, she's not on this side. Let's swing around. JJ, is the laserlink ready?"
"It shows ready."
"Good. Do a pass around the equator at 300 meters."
"Aye aye, 300 meters." Bradshaw said.
The Wolverine made an entire pass. Nothing. "Ok, this is going to get complicated. JJ, hand off the laserlink to Ben. I want you focusing on the Klingons. Let me know if there are any changes."
"Aye aye sir."
Jacobs thought a bit. "Does this asteroid rotate?"
Viben answered, "Not significantly. Since I've observed it there is no rotation. I'm guessing it's very long, like days long. I can't tell more without sensors."
"Ok. Guesses?"
"Night side." Said Viben. "Day side," said Simmons. "Night side," Said Grimm. One by one all the bridge officers guessed.
Jacobs shook his head. "I can't tell. Let's start with night side. Ben, when we are over it, scan the asteroid with the Laserlink to try to get a hit. Andy, start a search pattern on the night side."
They searched over the night side for a few hours. Nothing. Jareau reported, "Klingons are shifting position. I make it that they are moving radially outward from the sun. I think they are trying to search a new area."
"Thank you, JJ. How is the search pattern?
Lt Globnec said, "It's complete now."
Jacobs shook his head. "What's the period of rotation?"
Viben guessed, "It's on the order of weeks."
"Good enough. So, where they are is where they've been. The Enterprise didn't hide on the night side, why?" Jacobs asked. "Either they are hiding in the sunlight or the coordinates are wrong. Let's start a search pattern on the sunlight side."
The search started on the sunlight side. Jacobs turned and asked Lt Jareau. "JJ, are you sure you transcribed the coordinates correctly?"
"Yes sir, it's not hard. They were sent in code and if I used the wrong one then it would come out gibberish. As it is, the coordinates match the asteroid's position and orbital elements."
Viben was working the science station. "The coordinates are right."
"You found them?"
"I found evidence of the Enterprise. Spectroscopy indicates water vapor in the region. No other source of water is nearby. The water vapor is coming from the Asteroid."
"How? You said it was gravel."
Viben looked at the screen. "The Enterprise is venting water. Probably heat shedding."
Lt Grimm looked up. "Hit on laserlink."
"Open." Jacobs ordered. Grimm nodded. Jacobs said, "This is the USS Wolverine calling the USS Enterprise on laserlink."
Uhura's voice came over. "Wolverine, this is the USS Enterprise. Stand by for the Captain."
Shortly later, "This is Captain James T. Kirk, USS Enterprise."
Jacobs said, "Captain Joshua Jeremiah Jacobs, USS Wolverine. You hide well, Captain. Where are you?"
"Right under you."
Jacobs looked at the screen. The laserlink position was showing. Nothing else. The surface looked like undisturbed gravel. "You hide well."
Kirk's voice sounded relieved. "We had to. My Chief Engineer, Mr. Scott, says he could sure use your help. Let's come up with a plan."
