USS UNICORN

Mission 4 -- A Whiter Shade of Pale

USS Unicorn
Holobar
Bigg's having some spare time is throwing his "Wet Down"
Promotion Party.

ON>>

Major Lanor and Ensign Sanders walk quietly down the hall. Lanor is not to
thrilled with the idea of confronting Biggs at the party but it would be
socially unacceptable not to attend. Especially since Sanders has been
looking for a way to corner Biggs to tell him just what a pain in the butt
he has been lately. Lanor is not really looking forward to the
confrontation, but the fiery redheaded Sanders left him little choice, so
in the interest of some peace and quiet he had gone along. The bar door
opened and they walked into a quiet well kept garden with beautiful maze
like hedges, small singing birds, and small butterflies flittering between
flower beds. There is a sound of elegant violin recitals and piano music
in the background. Several tables are set up at the far side and already
people have gathered around them and are quietly talking and drinking tea
or cool glasses of lemonade in dainty saucers or glasses and munching on
small elegantly cut sandwiches and pastry. The drinks are being served by
very proper looking waiters. Several proper looking old ladies and
gentlemen are mixed in amoung the crew talking pleasantries.
Sanders: confused, "This doesn't look like the type of party I would
associate with our engineer. Why would he choose a garden party? Now I know
he is sick."
Lanor: listening and looking around, "There's more here than meets the
eye. Which with Biggs is becoming more the norm than the unusual. Listen."
he muttered as the two approach the tables a totally raucous and
separate noise could be heard coming from behind a hedge. To Lanor's
experienced ear it was reminiscent of some of the more elegant bordello
music he had heard in some of the ports he had visited. "He couldn't
have, not even Biggs could stoop that low.", thought the marine commander
in disbelief. However his worst fears were to be more than realized.
The sounds of numerous people talking loudly over the bumb and grind
music became louder though as he approached.Occasionaly the hedge moved
as if someone were inside of it. Approaching and greeting the people
at the tables Lanor and Sanders mingled politely for a time. Lanor did
his best to keep the curious Sanders from crossing the hedge. It was a
losing battle and with a sinking feeling and inpending horror he noticed
she was slowly moving in that direction despite his best efforts. A
small hole in the hedge allowed them to pass through to the other side
and the scene was worse than he thought. "Shades of Alice in Wonderland!"
he thought in horror.
Sanders: astonished and somewhat shocked is showing a flushed face, "What
is this place?"
Lanor: embarrassed and amused at her reaction, gives her his best I
tried look, "My dear, it appears somehow that our Engineer as decided
to incorporate an Orion bordello into the bar. But I do think the image
of a naked and dancing DevRoy is a bit much." he said pointing at the stage
as Sanders watched in fascinated horror. "I am glad she is not here
to see it. However, I was unaware she was so well endowed. I wonder if
he pulled this from the Medical computers or he just made it up?"
Suddenly realizing he has been staring in fascination he is thankful that
Sanders appears not to have noticed his lapse.
Sanders: to surprised and shocked to be angry yet and Lanor's comments
not having registered, is surprised when two scantily dressed women
approach her and Lanor. The first is a large blonde women well
over six feet with a shaved head. The blonde had a well defined
and muscular body and for all her size appeared quick and graceful.
Her eyes were a bright cornflower blue. Her counterpart was
a small green skined,Orion female. She also was well made but much
smaller, about five foot four with lush Dark green hair, to Sanders eye
these two were obvious professionals. She was ready to offer a scathing
comment when Lanor spoke.
Lanor: to the Blonde, "Layna, let me introduce you to Lt. Valerian. She
joined the ship just before we left Dante. Lt. Valerian is here at my
specific request. Lt. Valerian is trained in Marine Covert Ops and comes
highly recommended. Her aide Sargeant Di-uneia is also part of the covert
ops team. Ladies, this is Ensign Layna Sanders our Communications Officer."
Sanders: now neatly sandbagged, can only quickly go through the motions,
She shakes hands with the two women and mutters some inane greetings.
Valerian: smiling her classical features lighting up, "I met your engineer
already. He seemed to think I was part of his holodeck package. He
propositioned me. I may even meet with him later. You told me he was
an intersting mystery Sir, nothing like curling up with a good mystery."
She winks at Sanders who blushes again. "I may take him up on his offer.
I was surprised at how strong he was though when we were arm wrestling.
He is only the third one on this ship to beat me. That makes
you and Lessonar the other two. I never met such a large Klingon before.
I think Di-uneia was quite taken with him." she smiles fondly at her
smaller aide.
Di uneia: quietly with a twinkle in her eye, "You and that short engineer?
Who would have thought it? Your tastes usually go to taller well muscled
men who run screaming in fright from you. It is surprising you let him even
get close. He is not your usual type. Must be the surroundings. I almost
feel like I am at home.
Sanders: recovering somewhat, "You actually are considering......Biggs? But
isn't he a little old, and..." her voice trails off as she tries to picture
these two as a couple and her imagination fails.
Valerian: with a large laugh, slaps Lanor on the back which staggers him
for a moment. "I told him he could only have me if he could beat me in a fair
fight. I figured he would run screaming in fright." Looks at Lanor, "You might have
warned me that he studied Tel Shia on Vulcan. With that strength of his it was a
pretty even battle. I haven't had a fight like that in a long time. No wonder
Lessonar wanted in on the battle. I made him fight Di uneia."
Di uneia: ruefully, "That Klingon beat me. I didn't realize he had been
a world champion in Quo Slivx the Klingon martial arts. That is one fast
tough Wing Commander, I was surprised that he would offer to continue my
training."
Lanor: smiling, "I didn't know Bigg's knew Tel Shia but it fits with his
Vulcan background. He that good? How did the fight come out?"
Di uneia: smugly, "About the way you might suspect but unusual. They
wore each other out. She knows allot of dirty tricks. Her and Lessonar
would be a good match. Unusual, in that she didn't beat him either."
Valerian: with a large smile, "Luckily his Tel Shia was only a hobby.
He is to structured in his fighting, not a good street fighter. I was
able to use his greater strength and speed against him. He is fragging
strong and extremly fast! He is good at some brawling though so you
have to watch him. Most of the time he was able to simply power out
of my holds. I think I surprised him though, he looked pretty frustrated
when he couldn't beat me."
Di uneia: laughing like the tinkling of bells, "Especially when he
finally figured out you weren't a holgraph program."
Lanor: laughing for a moment at at the thought of a frustrated Biggs,
suddenly remembers, "You know he has been ill, I wouldn't take him
lightly." serious, "He is kind of an unknown right now and may be pretty
dangerous."
Valerian: nodds but says nothing. "Well, I think we will circulate a bit
more. See you folks later."
Lanor: spying Biggs notices that he is talking with Kira near the far
side of the hedge. He suddenly decides that he should talk to the engineer
after all. Pointing them out to Sanders they start to move towards them.
They pass an old couple taking to a call girl. He hears a partial
conversation about the Titanic and wonders what they could be talking
about.
Biggs: speaking with Kira, "....well at least that stupid EMH ain't
doping you up no more. It's not my fault the Captain keeps putting
that dumb machine in. Anyway, I wanted to thank you for coming to get
me, I already thanked Lessoner. I owe you both and Biggs always pays his
debts. You need anything you let me know."
Lanor: smiling pleasantly, "Hello Kira, Biggs. Interesting chair Kira.
Your doing Biggs?"
Biggs: "Yeah, its a thought wheel chair used for the extremely handicapped,
not my invention though remeber Captain Christopher Pike? He had something
similiar after his accident but this is the newer version. I can't take
credit for it though. It was in Wakakoe's notes. I would have figured you
to be intimately familar with it, considering how much snooping you been
doing lately, but I guess you never got around to looking at the Doc's logs
did you?"
Sanders: levelling accusing green eyes on Biggs, "Stop IT! This is supposed
to be a party not a sniping session. Your attitude has always been rude but
lately you have been down right hateful." advances on Biggs finger pointed
"That stunt you pulled with DevRoy was the worst and you continue to rub
salt in the wound, now get that image off this deck immediately! I don't
care how much you don't want someone in your mind. TELL HER NO, she was
trying to help you. She's a professional she can stay out of peoples heads.
What you did was tantamount to rape and THAT" points to dancing DevRoy holo
"is totally uncalled for. She has to work on this ship and destroying her
respectability by doing something like that will destroy her career." By
this time Biggs is backed up against the wall. "You went through some
rotten times. We are all sorry for you and we are here to help if you need
it but totally destroying someone who is just trying to do their job is
pathetic and malicious. You had better shape up around here mister or the
very people who risk their lives for you are gonna think twice about it a
second time." Turns and stalks off leaving a bemused Lanor trailing after
and a confused Biggs leaning against the wall.
Kira: turns "Thanks for the chair. Congratulations on the promotion.
Think about what she said. She isn't the nicest person on the ship but
she's right." Rolls away in the direction of the tea party.
Lanor: was surprised that Biggs would have taken such a lecture without
some comeback, but perhaps Sanders had made a point to the engineer. The
holograph of DevRoy soon vanished. He had suspected that Biggs would have
at least insulted Sanders but he had neither acknowledge, censored, or
replied to her. Again this appeared to be totally unlike the engineer. What
bothered him more though was the clue Biggs had let drop. Why was Biggs
going through Wakakoe's logs? Did he suspect?

OFF>>

Capt. Lanor
USS Unicorn Marines

1st Fleet Command
Super - Carrier Kavalvar
In Federation Space approaching Elsen's Planet

ON>>

Juma: approaches the command chair of Lord Skragg, "Master, I have several
items of information that you have been awaiting." Lord Skragg, watching
the approach is in a good mood today. He looks at the Purmar and twitches
an ear in acknowledgment. "Master, The area around the world Junction has
been mined and we are ready to start our assault. The subspace relays
around the world have been destroyed and no distress calls will escape the
planet. Junction has many engineers and technicians who mine something
called Dilithium Crystals. These items are used as power sources by most
Federation craft in this sector. By disrupting the trade and cutting off
the source of their power the federation craft will require a much longer
resupply time at a much more extreme cost. We will receive for testing the
power source and will capture many valuable Federation engineers and much
of their power technology. This plan is proceeding with no major
complications at this time. Information will be left behind which points at
Baron Sardhin as the one who made this raid."
Lord Skragg: satisfied, "Excellent, the Science Teams are standing by as
well as the Salvage Units?"
Juma: "Yes Lord."
Lord Skragg: "What is the status of the Purmar Vellig?"
Juma: "The Purmar has completed his instruction on what is required in his
role as ambassador to the Federation. He will approach the last of the
active Anti-Krazzle ships, the criminal unit known as Unicorn upon their
return journey from the Pale. He has been instructed to contact The
Captain, one P.D. McAllister by shuttle alone. The shuttle is ancient and
outmoded technology as is all the equipment. This will give the Federation
the impression that we are to weak to challenge their power."
Lord Skragg: "He is then enroute towards Dante Base now to intercept them?"
Juma: "Yes Lord. However there is disturbing news from the Pale. It appears
Baron Sardhin has captured J'min and the Captain of the Unicorn as well as
several other Federation people. Due to orders Deitritus has given Lord
Talphon, the destroyer group is to far from the Pale to receive word of
this from the Baron. He will remain out of range for some time. However,
this may delay the Unicorn's departure from the Pale before Lord Rusmak
arrives. This may cause complications. It appears the Baron wishes to
placate you."
Lord Skragg: "The Baron is a fool. Inform Deitritus, to contact our
Commando Unit on the Pale. They are to rescue the Federation Personnel as
well as J'min. The are to be Minjay personnel only and they should express
loyalty to J'min. They will ensure two things. The equipment taken from the
Federation people will be sent to Deitritus and our people for study. They
will then aid the Unicorn Captain and personnel to escape and discover a
cure to the virus we gave them. This will be done immediately so that the
plan will continue on the time schedule I have set."
Juma: confused "Master, why would the Pale have this cure? Will this not
make the federation people suspicious? This is a disease that was tailored
by our Science not the Tomar."
Lord Skragg: "Of course they will consider this if they have half a brain.
I have my own reasons for them to find the cure and to find it there.
Reasons I will not explain at this time."
Juma: bowing "You have many plans at once Master, I respect your wishes. My
final report is that due to heavy losses in the Sect Battle the Odysseus
and Endeavor have been decommissioned and retired from the fleet. It
appears from our spy reports that this fleet is experiencing a severe
manpower shortage as well as resupply problems. After their losses under
Admiral Jarovik the fleet in this sector has been cut back by Starfleet
command. Supplies are low and moral appears weakened. It appears your plans
to drive the federations ships from this sector is succeeding well. The
Unicorn which is only a frigate class and not even a full on Battle Ship is
the only vessel which now actively opposes us. As a result the whole of the
Krazzle nation has recognized your supremacy. You are requested to a
conclave on the home world of Kraz where all Krazzle clans will swear
loyalty to you as Emperor. A mighty accomplishment in so short a time
Master."
Lord Skragg: "An irritating ceremony at a poor time. Just on the eve of my
latest battle. However, it is important that I rule the clans. Inform the
Captain and escorts of this Carrier that we will set immediate course for
Kraz. The rest of first fleet will continue the current campaign."
Juma: bowing and moving off hastens to comply with the command....

OFF

USS Unicorn:

ON>>

A humming noise fills the corridor as the door opens for Wing Commander Lessonar. Entering he sees the flight deck as the techs are busily readying the fighters for a sortie against a Krazzle destroyers. Looking around he saw the 4 fighters being prepared with 2 torpedoes each for the run on the base and the Phaser array being checked over. The techs where also all over the craft making sure everything was in perfect order (or as close as possible) with the fuel topped of and power at full.
Lessonar: "All right lets get this show on the road" as be begins external his pre-flight check. "Where is Ensign Carson?"
Chief Dillon: "Yes sir"
Carson: "Up here sir", He called from the weapon seat of Lessonars fighter "doing the final pre-flight systems check."
Lessonar: Climbing into the pilot seat of his fighter seeing WHIP printed on her nose over an evil looking bullwhip "Good, we will start the pre-launch sequence in 1 minute."
Chief: "Aye sir"
Lessonar: "Control, Lt. Lessonar here any last messages?"
Control: Only that we have a window of 10 minutes for you to maneuver, Dock yourselves on the hull under our cloak and monitor your attack table update then when the order is given hit your assigned targets. Good Hunting.
Lessonar: "Confirmed and thank you control, Whip out." As the decks started to clear an alarm sounded and then the main hatch started sliding open.
Lessonar thinking to himself: "One of these time they will do that and that force field won't be up giving everyone a free ride to nowhere. I will have to see what can be done about clearing the decks when that door first opens at least." Moving out of the hatch and coming over onto the top of Unicorns hull the ship eclipsing Pales surface still 50,000 kilometers away and in the shadow of the debris of the HUGE ship they found and tractored into its collision course with the crippled orbiting Destroyer. Staying close to the hull to remain within the cloaking field the fighters set down around the tightbeam antenna they linked into the attack table signal (all in 2 minutes) and waited.
Thinking back it didn't take long to find the right piece of junk to grab and twist to the needed course, what with all the destruction the Krazzle did to the ship in this system they had a fair selection. It was tricky but not hard to maneuver it to come out of the sun and low around the planet without their spotting the activity. With the orbiting Krazzle unable to maneuver and not strong enough to deflect it (plus by the time they could get a clear enough shot to destroy it they would still be killed by the blast and/or the shrapnel) it sent out an emergency call for help to her 3 sisterships. All three then started for Pale at high warp speed as their computers told them it would take the combined effort of ALL of them to deflect the debris safely (they couldn't just move the orbiter as the debris would then have hit their main compound on the surface).
As he and the other 3 fighters watched as the repeater screens showed the 3 Krazzle destroyers moving into position to tractor that massive ships debris that the Unicorn had found. As they locked on the 4 fighters received their signal to disengaged from the Unicorns hull and start for the Destroyers.
Checking the flight profiles as they lifted away from the hull it showed the 4 fighters forming up into 2 teams of 2 fighters each they head out for the Krazzle ships. As the 3 Krazzle lined up and tractored the flying scrap the signal was given to attack. As they came out of the Unicorns shadow, she decloaks and fires on the 2 Krazzle furthest "Starboard" of the debris. The squadron splitting into their 2 units (with Lessonars unit headed for the other active Krazzle and the other unit going for the orbiter) they attacked. The Krazzle knowing something was up where able to return fire on the Unicorn and her fighter escort. The Unicorn focusing all weapons on one Krazzle first overcame her shields and armor and she exploded. Then turned her attention to the next one on her target list.
Lessonar (communicating to the other federation fighters):"Now stay with you wingman as he is the one who will cover your back in a fight, get separated and you won't make it back alive, UNDERSTOOD?"
Other craft: "Yessir!"
Having circled around the Unicorn with Ensign Maloan as his wingman, the squadron flew towards the Krazzle. It was odd seeing how small the Krazzle ships where compare to the debris with their tractors glowing and their weapons pods also glowing red as they fired their main beam weapons at the Unicorn and their secondaries at the fighters. Lessonar lined up his main Phaser weapon on his target. Carson got a lock on the Krazzle and launched both of his torpedoes with Maloan's right behind him. As they broke away from the destroyer Lessonar raked her main bridge section with his forward Phasers and Maloan raked her Engineering section with his. Taking a few deflecting hits and near misses as the made their attack run and escape. As they pulled away they saw the first 2 Krazzles where expanding gas clouds due to the Unicorns massive firepower and a second later the one they had fired at joined them in a spectacular display of expanding gases.
Going around the debris, Lessonar went to assist Beta squadron if they needed help. They saw both fighters taking solid hits but getting their shots off. As they approached they watched as the last Krazzle destroyer exploded with the blue-white planet of Pale as a backdrop. With that they received the recall signal. On the way back they took stock of their damage: Whip had superficial damage, 1 fighter was heavily damaged slowing the group down and the other 2 where moderate in damage. It looked like a job well done.

OFF

USS Unicorn - orbiting the Pale
Capt Lanor - awaiting the return of the Captain.
Rumor has started to circulate that the Captain and
landing party have missed there normal check in time by
a few hours. So far the New XO has taken no action. However,
none of this is generally known and no information has been officially
released.

ON>>

Lanor sat on his bunk and stared at the folder ACEy had just delivered. It
was clearly marked confidential. ACEy had said the Capt had left it behind
should something happen to him. Lanor had expected a lot of things but
this wasn't one of them. Reaching over he picked up the folder and broke
the seal. Carefully removing the single sheet of paper within he read the
orders left by the Capt.

If you are reading this I am dead or captured. You are hereby ordered to
proceed on your own initiative to investigate my death or disappearance.
Try to keep this discrete Lanor. Biggs will explain to you what is going
on by my direct order logged under Security as FX 128771-652. I suspect if
they grab me the secret is blown anyway and the Krazzle are just looking
for confirmation..
Capt. McAllister
USS Unicorn

Lanor: unenthusiastically "OH JOY!, NOW he finally lets me go when
he's dead or missing, but he still doesn't tell me a thing about
what is going on, how will I know if Biggs is telling the truth?
So once again I get to thrash around and he wants
me to keep it fragging discreet?" Turning Lanor reads the status
report on the possible rescue plans he might use based on the
current information. The planetary defense base was extremely
secure but had received a viscous pounding from the forces of
Lord Skragg. Those forces had been destroyed by Lessonar's attack and
he was now free to concentrate on the base. Unfortunately the
base was so well shielded that it blocked all attempts at scanning.
Finding the Capt inside that structure was impossible. It was
even possible that they had moved him via shielded transport
to some other facility rather than leave him in the obvious
place to search. He needed technical help on this and the
only person to go to for technical help was Biggs. "Better and
better. This is going to be real discreet. NOT!"
Lanor: even more unenthusiastically shut down his computer and went to find
Biggs, "Well, you wanted to know what he might do in an emergency. Now's as
good a time as any to find out."
Lanor walked the long corridor down to engineering where he rapidly found
Biggs buried up to his arms in a Shield Control Panel. Since the party the
engineer had been spending much of his time alone doing things to the
shield units. Lanor had been tracing Bigg's movements and had been watching
from security camera's. He wanted some type of
documented proof of the strange goings on of the old man.
Biggs: angrily at his aide "Darn it Stynt I said a 3/4 Matter gate
transformer, if your to stupid to give me what I ask for, you can be
replaced....OScrume! it's the Jarhead! What brings you down to the realms
of Hades, slumming?"
Lanor: flashes the confidential folder. "I need to speak with you for a few
minutes and I am afraid its important."
Biggs: disgusted, glares at Stynt,"Don't touch anything till I get back and
no one else is to get near this panel, Understand?" turns away not waiting
for an acknowledgment. glares at Lanor who suddenly notices that the
engineer has red eyes, like he has not been sleeping well. Even as he
watches, Lanor sees Biggs pop another stim pill. Since there was no Doctor
Biggs must have forced the EMH to give him the pills. "This might be
important for you but if you put me behind schedule any further, you'll
wish you weren't born. This better be important to me! We can talk in
here." as he motions them into the Chief Engineers station.
Lanor and Biggs walk into Biggs station area and he activates the
privacy field. Lanor hands Biggs the folder, "Want to tell me now
what's going on. Captain gave me orders to investigate and he wants it
discreet....Then he told me to come to you in the event he is in trouble."
Biggs: reads the order angrily and then punches in the code numbers to
confirm the orders. The orders leave little out. He is supposed to answer
Lanor's direct questions but he is not to volunteer information. looks at
the marine warily, "OK, you got the orders and
they are confirmed, I think this should have gone to the XO but that is the
Captain's choice. I obey orders, what do you want to know?"
Lanor: "Not going to make this easy and volunteer anything huh? It
figures that you would want to see just how much I know. So OK we do
it the hard way Commander. Why weren't you investigated by FOX
extensively after your kidnapping? Why wasn't the Krazzle commando
who came for you in sick bay investigated? Why hasn't there been
ANY action taken against the spies on Dante base?"
Biggs: laughs harshly without humor, "What makes you think that FOX is not
investigating me? You think they are going to tell me, the subject? Just
because they ain't making waves don't mean it ain't happening. I can give
you guesses on what is happening, but you give me more credit for knowing
peoples thoughts than I deserve. I can make guesses boy, but they don't
mean DREK All. You want facts ask me what I know about. I don't order
investigations or have access to them. Go ask security why they ain't
running an investigation, I'm only the engineer."
Lanor: stared at Biggs a moment, "OK Commander, then lets ask something you
have to know. The Krazzle grabbed you. Why did they want you? What did you
tell them? How much did they get to you? Why did they let you escape and
then send a Commando after you, if the Commando did exist?"
Biggs: the stim pill taking affect, "That's better Jarhead. OK they grabbed
me because they were concerned about the changes I was making in the ship.
After the Sect frag up they knew like I did that our ship would be the
first out of the dock. Less repair time. Commander Uno had given them full
specifications and capabilities of our craft. I changed practically
everything. It appears the Krazzle commander has a bug about knowing his
enemy. When that base got hit after all this time they knew we had to have
upgraded, but what? They wanted to know what we did. They figured the most
likely person to be able to give them detailed information would be the guy
who did it, the chief engineer. makes sense don't it? The plans for the
upgrade have not been filed in the Starbase records, they checked through
their spies. I filed the old specs and those admin boys was to dumb to know
the diff. That really hacked them off. With the upgraded computer and board
security on our ship they couldn't get them there, That's what I get for
locking this stuff down. When they grabbed me they started questioning me,
they weren't to aware of my Vulcan background so partially from what they
asked me and partially from mental clues I was able to slant my answers so
that it would confirm some things without giving away anything important. I
did allot of talk that confirmed things that were no brainer but tried not
to give them any clues where we were headed. It was getting close though,
they were pressing real hard by the end of it. I figured it was all up with
me. You ask if they got to me? Personally, I don't think so. It's pretty
hard to brainwash a Vulcan, even a half Vulcan like me. Much harder than a
human. Speaking as me, Nope, they didn't get to me, but you have to be the
judge of that. Finally that Commando did exist or why would the Slocar have
touched off and painted it red so the sensors could finally see it? You
will notice none of the others got sprayed direct, not Harsh, the Doc, me
or Kira or we would still be red like Sanders was painted. I don't know why
they let me go so easy, and then sent a Commando after me. It don't make
much sense to me."
Lanor: recording this carefully, "OK Commander, then why all the secrecy on
a simple shield upgrade that is going to get out anyway. Why all the hush
hush, and why TAC Nukes?"
Biggs: staring at the Marine unflinchingly, "Looking to go through what I
went through Lanor? I wouldn't wish that on anybody. I suggest you withdraw
that question. It could get you killed or worse. I told you why the Nukes,
and that is part of the answer, it just ain't all of it. The Captain
disappearing ain't got nothing to do with that. Like I pointed out earlier,
this knowledge could be pretty dangerous to you and those around you. If
DevRoy picks it up from you, she is a target, and after what they did to me
you want to see Sanders or DevRoy go through that? Back away from that
question Lanor, knowing won't help you and it may get someone you like
killed."
Lanor: staring back, "Your scaring me to death, old man, why I am just
shaking all over in fear. Captain says you answer the questions. Now spill
it, you have no choice. I am recording this and if I find out your lying it
will be a penal planet for you."
Biggs: nods, "If you didn't have that order, I wouldn't let you be so
stupid. Sure I could demand a mouthpiece and tie you up in a starfleet
court until the Admiral came down on you with both feet. Don't think that
couldn't happen. Since you seem so intent on digging graves around here I
want you to remember this. Anything happens to another shipmate because of
this, it's on your head."
Sits down and props his feet up and takes out a bottle of Old Panther Sweat
and offers Lanor a glass. The Marine refuses and Biggs pours for himself
and takes a drink. " I won't get real technical on all the details, just
enough explanation so you know where it's going. The shield technology is
the tip of the iceberg on this one. These shields will be much heavier and
denser than any other shield unit. That is a by product of what I am doing
not the final outcome. The Tac Nukes that I got don't remain as Tac Nukes.
I remove the hard Duetronium from them and use it to power the shields in
conjunction with the Warp and Impulse engines direct. This is simplified
but in essence I created a tractor pressor field much thicker than normal
shields could possibly ever achieve. When Jmin first came on board I
invited him out and we did some talking. He told me about a new
developement by Lord Skragg, a leech missile. It drains ordinary shields
long enough for fighter strikes to open a more permanent door. Ordinary
shields are no match for it. I didn't tell him but I was working on a new
upgrade of ECM to be used in conjunction with our cloaking units. The heavy
particles injected between the shield fields are nuetrally charged. The
field is so thick it absorbs scans. By altering the charge I can make the
ship appear to be anything from a carrier to invisible with out using the
cloak. No energy drain on the cloak. The affect is good to about up to 15
light minutes away. You get closer than that the field is detectable but
for distance work it is just what a covert craft like ours needs. So not
only did I create a more powerful shield unit. I gave us the ability to
move around without the power drain of a cloak, still fire weapons and to
disguise ourselves as any type of ship signature. The Admiral needs a decoy
of his ship say, We could play decoy and go in as his ship signature. By
the time anyone gets close enough to see it ain't him.....well he could
sand bag pretty well. I suspect you can see some of the ramifications of
this. The uses for this are pretty open. Now what if the Krazzle, with
their weaker scanners, no cloak, but larger fleets gets ahold of this? The
upgrade for them would take minimal time because this can be built from
tech they already are using. A whole Krazzle fleet with improved ECM would
negate our scanner and cloak advantage. With heavier shields and ECM for
the fighters shields as well the Federation would be in a tough place.
Couple that with our improved armor and Scan Net capability, as well as
increased security. Now you understand why the Krazzle are taking an undo
interest in us? Sometimes just knowing something can be done will be enough
for the Krazzle to start looking. They have allot of catching up to do
though, even with clues. Our power systems are different for one thing,
they will have to study our power systems first to see how they work." He
laughs, "That's a dead end but they won't know that." Looks at Lanor,
"Unless someone like DevRoy or Sanders, or others find out and the Krazzle
grab them. Your in it now Jarhead, now you got to help us hide the secret."
Smiles widely like the old Biggs, "So how do you plan to keep it hid?"
Lanor: "I have been keeping secrets for a long time. Your the only one
that knows I know. Don't tell anybody I know and things won't be that much
different than before. So what's with all the stims? You obviously have
been over doing them."
Biggs: laughs, "Nosy today ain't we. I would think it was obvious. We are
in deep stuff. The shields are half rebuilt. Want to go into a battle with
half shields Jarhead? I don't recommend it. These constant trips back to
sickbay have put us behind."
Lanor: shakes his head sadly, "So you risk the whole ship's saftey based on
the assumption that your staff can't figure out what your doing." holds up
his hand "That's engineering stuff and I ain't going to interfere in that.
But if your really going to pull rank and take command of the ship then you
had better see the doctor or the XO may try to have you removed for medical
reasons."
Biggs: smirks, "Yeah, like the EMH is gonna give me a bad scan. Occording
to you I have complete control of the thing."
Lanor: smiles, "Oh, I took care of the EMH. Since the marine have a fully
qualified medical team I put them incharge of the sickbay with the XOs
approval of course. They are only to happy to help out their shipmates in
this time of great need."
Biggs: laughs, "So now who is taking control of things? Your doing what you
accused me of doing. You may have a medical staff, boy but staff don't mean
Doc. Just like Chief Engineer is different than assistant."
Lanor: "Trust me. Just see the doc. He's a good man and you'll not get any
trouble out of him. Now for the big question. What can we do about
finding the Capt? Without prior knowledge of this base any extraction team
I send down there will be discovered long before we find the Capt. Which
means the Krazzle will kill him and his team before we have a chance of
rescuing them. The other option is a covert search which will take far
longer than we are likely to have. Both of these actions have to be
approved by the XO or they go no where and she hasn't made a sound since
she came on board."
Biggs: thinks for a moment, "Ok, as soon as we are done here I'll see your
doctor. Wouldn't want to have him pull me from command right after I get a
plan moving." pauses in thought for a moment "The Captain should be fairly
easy. We put a probe in orbit to track his gear through the comm badges
using Scan net relays. With the Krazzle sensors they are unlikely to see
it. Especially since the destroyers are gone. If the Captain or his gear
leaves the planet we will know and the probe can follow them to wherever it
is taken. I suspect the gear and Captain would be moved to roughly the same
locations. I already have several probes from the Dante asteroid bit.
Admiral had us remove them after we discovered the base. I guess he didn't
want the Krazzle to pick them up and study them. Finding the Captain will
be harder but not impossible. We can have our fighters set up the relay
points. With a direct connection past all the shielding the Unicorn's
sensors will be able to scan whole sections of the PDC. It shouldn't take
long to find the Captain and then your team can spring him and leave any
nasty surprises you care to give our Krazzle friends."
Lanor: "Ok, I'll submit the plan to the XO. If she acts then we'll save the
Captain if she don't it will be up to you."
Biggs: laughs, "That's a switch. You suddenly trusting me?"
Lanor just smiles and heads for the door. About 10 minutes latter his comm
beeps and for a second Biggs yells about tricks and in the background Dr.
Wakakoe calmly cuts the channel.

OFF>>

Capt Lanor
USS Unicorn marines.

Standing on the Pale in a Krazzle Planetary Defense Center (PDC).
Krazzle prison.
Don't put me in with Ben Dover!

ON>>

DevRoy; exhausted and dirty from the ill smelling conditions has finally
fallen asleep. The Captain is pacing the cell still trying to figure a way
out. Jmin though is watching the Captain pace back and forth his yellow
cats eyes able to see in the dark. J'min had hoped the Baron would not
betray them but he had not been silly enough to count on that. He had made
other arrangements with other contacts and spies he had on this planet. The
Baron had been watched carefully as he had made the plans to capture the
landing party. Unfortunately, with the Unicorn's schedule of arrival being
secret and the fact that he could not receive transmissions from his spies,
he was not able to receive fore warning. Still it did not mean he was
helpless. Even now he could hear the hissing of the atomic torch on the
wall farthest away from the door. Soon an exit would be made and they would
be leaving this noisome hole.
Jmin: humorously which is probably not really detectable to humans, "Sir, I
suggest you awaken Lt. DevRoy, we will be leaving here in a few minutes."
McAllister: caught off guard, "Huh?"
Jmin: staring at the human, "I made arrangements for us to be rescued, they
are here now. We need to leave before the ones who are listening can
respond. I suggest we talk later." Even as he finished the heavy "KLANG"
of a large circular part of the wall fell onto the floor. Several Krazzle
in armor entered quickly rushing to the door where they quickly spot welded
the door shut. Even as this is done the thudding begins on the other side
of the door as the Baron's warriors attempt to enter the cell. Two other
Krazzle Commandos quickly grabbed the humans and rushed them through the
hole as the others rapidly followed. The group raced down the tunnel and
into a corridor as alarm bells rang. The Captain noted several dead Krazzle
in this area, testimony to the effectiveness of Jmins commando team. Still
he wondered how they would be able to escape the very large PDC. It soon
became obvious though that this would pose little problem. The group
continued to race downward through the PDC not upward as the Captain
expected, until they reached a lower tunnel. A security door was quickly
bypassed and they travelled through a tunnel on a fast monorail to an
outside door. The group quickly entered a large Krazzle truck and it sped
away.
Zalazar: the leader of the Commado team turned to Jmin, "We have a fast
shuttle at a hidden field just outside the city. The Baron will be turning
the city around in an attempt to discover your allies. Your allies ship,
launched an attack against the four destroyers, most likely as a warning
against the Baron to release your new packmates. It was an unequal contest
from what we were able to observe. The main ship appeared, as it launched
four fighters. They attacked rapidly and all four destroyers were destroyed
before they could effectively reply. We were able to transfer the data of
the attack to our hidden bases off world. If we could do so then you may be
sure your enemy Lord Skragg can do so as well. We have recently intercepted
Purmar comminications as well. They have slunk away as head clan. Lord
Skragg will be crowned Emperor of all the clans. Even now it is said he is
enroute to the home world. With all the clans under his direct orders the
time of Krazzle divison is over. With the clans united Skragg will turn his
attention outward once more. The final item of interest, a fast courier
ship recently arrived from Lord Skragg as well. It contained a cargo which
was delivered to a local healing center. It is rumored that this is some
type of new Bio Weapon and antidote. It seems strange that it would be
delivered to us, but if the Baron has made an alliance and acknowledges
Skragg emperor then perhaps it is to protect the population when Skragg
launches his attacks against your allies."
Jmin: turned to the Captain and rapidly interpreted what the Commando had
told him.
McAllister: nodding, "We need to get samples of both the virus and the
antidote. That means we will need to make a raid upon this facility before
we leave. It is imperative that we have both items and has many of the
research papers as we can get." Jmin rapidly explained this to the
Commando.
Zalazar: unhappy, "This will not be an easy thing to do. The area is
heavily guarded. We will lose much of this team attempting this. There are
also several heavy weapons units stationed in the area. This team of mine
will not be adequate enough to deal with them. However, we have recently
acquired in our group a unit of heavy weapons infantry. They carry heavy
plasma cannon on rigged harness. With them creating a diversion we might be
able to get what you want."
Jmin: suspiciously, "You trust these?"
Zalazar: nodding, "They are all Minjay. Our background check shows they
have been fighting Lord Skragg for some time and they have many exploits to
their credit. They are well known in our circles and come highly
recommended. Their Leader one Zozan has a battle name of the The Ultimate
Warrior. We are lucky they arrived at this time and we can use them. We
were intending to smuggle them to the home planet, but since this is more
important to you, we place them at your dispossal." Jmin, satisfied with
the commander's comments, explained quickly his plan to the Captain. The
Captain offered some insightful comments after studying the battle plan as
the truck continued to speed to it's destination.

OFF>>

Healing Center, Sarghen, eight hours later.

ON>>

Zozan the Ultimate Warrior: growly voiced and heavily muscled, "I am sorry
Captain that we were unable to recover your weapons and equipment. It would
appear that the Baron had them shipped off planet in a fast shuttle shortly
after taking them from you. I suspect he had heard you had new and powerful
detection devices and took no chances." The commando obviously knew English
very well so it was decided the humans and Jmin should accompany him. While
the others made the penetration. The Captain did not like this but Zalazar
had pointed out that the humans would be to dangerous for his team to have
on the penetration. Krazzle in the area could be explained away, humans
could not. the Captain did not like this but his Krazzle allies had been
firm and it was their show. The Captain was forced to do it their way.
However the Captain had ordered DevRoy to the escape shuttle to await their
return. This had not been disputed by the Krazzle allies. At the appointed
time the Plasma cannon started bombarding the heavy weapons emplacements.

OFF>>

Bridge, USS Unicorn:
Biggs as acting XO is commanding

ON>>

Afali: at helm, in polar orbit around the Pale "Sir sensors report heavy
weapons fire near the Captal city of the planet. It appears that the
weapons are using super heated plasma rounds."
Sanders: at comm, "Sir reports from the planet show a planetary alert. Wide
band and scrambled communications from military units in the Capital City
of Sarghen. Still no reports from the Landing Party. Still attempting to
locate the XO but I am receiving no response. Major Lanor and Lt Lessonar
are on their way to the bridge per your request. Yellow alert has been
sounded and crew is at battle stations. Fighters are prepped for launch.
Sick Bay, Dr Wakakoe reports ready. Kira reports full on board Security
stations manned and ready. She is still attempting to find the XO who is
not wearing her Comm badge and is not in her cabin."
Stynt: at engineering station, "Sir shields online and cloak still engaged,
impulse and warp drive on stand-by. Phaser banks charged and photon
torpedos are ready.
Biggs: at the Science Station, "Very well. Open innership communications."
Sanders: presses several buttons on her console, "Innership comm open."
Just as Lessonar and Lanor arrive on the Bridge.
Biggs: still peering at the Scince instruments, " To all hands, sensors
have currently located some of the landing party. We have not yet located
Counsellor DevRoy or Jmin, however the Captain appears to be with a unit
causing the plasma bombardment near the Capital city. Without a clear idea
what is going on and where the rest of the party is, There is little we can
do. It would appear our Captain has plans and using a sledge hammer might
wreck them, so I intend to launch Fighters and a Marine contigent to his
location to offer backup assistance." Motions to Sanders that he is
through. Looks at Lanor and Lessonar. Well gentlemen, Here is the location
of the Captain and what weapons and forces we can see. Keep in touch."

OFF>>

Launch Bay where Marines and Fighters are prepared and ready to go>

ON>>>

Lanor: "All right gentlemen! The mission is simple. Go in and help the
Capt. There are reports uncomfirmed reports that some of the Krazzle may be
helping the Capt so be sure of your targets and no firing until I give the
word. We are landing in a hostile zone with no idea who is friend or foe so
take your positions carefully and quietly until I have had a word with the
Capt. Lt. Lessonar, Drop us off and get back to altitude until the Capt
calls in targets. All right lock and load."
The marines rapidly strap themselves into their assigned positions and
minutes later the fighters lift off with 4 containers of marines strapped
to their bellies. They enter the atmosphere of the planet and begin a
screaming descent past plasma fire and beam weapons which appear to only
take a partial interest in them. The Lessonar's fighter slams to just above
the ground first, braking at incredible speeds to deposit its load roughly
onto the ground,jetisoning its payload quickly and climbing back into the
sky. The other 3 perform similar but far slower manevuers.
Even as the containers touch the hatches on the transport containers open
and marines pour out. Most cursing the pretty boys for such a hard landing
and the frag up where they can't fire because two sets of troops that look
completely the same may or may not be hostile. Leave it to some fleet puke
to put them in this Drek All again. Curses which rapidly vanish as the PDC
weapons start blasting at them. They quickly scramble to avoid the incoming
fire.

OFF>>

As the PDC defense start going off launching missiles and heavy mass
driver and laser rounds, the sky is lit up.

ON>>

McAllister: "It sounds like the marines have landed. I'll need to get in
touch with them to prevent any accidents."
Lanor:decloaking "Not necessary Capt." Materializes behind a Krazzle. "We
were just checking to make sure you were not a prisoner." glances at Zozan
impressed at the carnage his weapons appear to be creating in the Krazzle
enemy units, "Interesting toys you have there."
Zozan: smiles, "Perhaps, I might swap a few for a copy of your armor. It
wouls be very useful in our campaigns with Lord Skragg."
Lanor: flashes his secret smile and nods to Zozan before turning to
McAllister, "Sir, Commander Wayne sends his compliments. We have the
fighters on standby to hit whatever targets you require and a full
compliment here to support whatever you might need. I would suggest we
move quickly as the planetary alert is spreading and units are moving on
this position." hands a package to the Captain and J'Min. "You might find
these usefull."
McAllister: opens the package and removes weapons and comm badge. "Well
timed Major, but why is Biggs running this where is the XO?"
Lanor: "I don't know sir, she appears to have vanished and can't be
located. Supposedly she joined the ship but her arrival was cloaked in so
much secrecy we are not even sure she is on board. When you didn't report
in, and she couldn't be found, Commander Wayne assumed command. We are
still not sure who ordered Lt Lessonar to take out the destroyers.
Commander Wayne stated he had ordered a simulator excercise for the Lt. on
that subject, but had specified no actual attack with out approval from the
XO or Commander. Lt Lessonar though reported he did received orders from
the new XO to actually make the attack. The situation is pretty fragged up.
Currently we are tying up the PDC with mortar and missile fire so they
don't drop fifty tons of Drek on this position. We also saw a commando team
attempting to leave a large building under heavy fire. All of them were
wiped out except for one Krazzle carrying several vials and some papers who
was heavily wounded. We gave those to Jmin to decipher and he says they are
from someone called Zalazar and they are the virus, antidote, and papers on
it. Zalazar died getting us the info.
McAllister: nodding, "It appears our job is done Major, start issuing the
recall on the your men and bring in the fighters with full weapons load
outs to finish dealing with the PDC. Have Biggs prepare to start beaming
the others aboard to include DevRoy at this location." Turns to Zozan.
"Need a lift?"
Zozan: "No we will take the shuttle and head for the next fight though if
you have no use for it. We will waste no more time on this rock."
McAllister: opening communicator, "McAllister to Unicorn, initate withdrawl
now."

OFF>>

Post from Commander Biggs

USS Unicorn
Bridge
Returning on Cruising speed to Dante Base.

ON>>

Biggs: reading his sensors, "The cloak is inactive and the ECM is
operational Captain. The new shields are working well. They are not drawing
full power. They are set for normal meteor deflection. To anything over 15
light minutes we should be invisible. The special adapters for the scanners
and comm are working well. All engineering functions are operating
normally."
Afali: at the Helm, "Course has been set for Dante Base Captain. Proceeding
at Warp 4. We should arrive within the next 24 hours, ships time."
Kira: at Security and Weapons console, smirks at XO behind Captains back
"Security systems are on-line and active Captain. No intruders will get our
secrets no matter how competent they THINK they are." Bigg's snickers as
the XO blushes.
McAllister: sighs, old home week, "Thank You Kira it is so nice to have you
back. I don't know how we poor humans managed without your so humble
presence." You little witch. he thought in addition.
XO: back stiff and pointedly ignoring the security officer, continues
scanning from the Science Station. "Scanners read all clear Captain, up to
one parsec away. Nothing showing. It looks like we have left the Pale well
behind."
Lessonar: at his Wing Commander Station, " One Fighter on standby and
prepped for Hot Launch Captain. One fighter down checked for battle damage
and maintenance. It took several missile hits during a bomb run on the PDC
and barely made it back. The other two fighters on downtime maintenance but
are available for emergency launch with 15 minutes prep time."
Lanor: at the Marine console: "We suffered one loss, Private Johnson died
from a direct hit while manning a mini array. Two others wounded from the
same hit and are currently in sick bay. The Doctor states they will
recover. We expended 20 % of our on board ammo. Cleaning and Repair are
underway. One heavy weapon, a Vanguard mini array was destroyed and will
require replacing. Ammo and unit are being replicated. Fifty Seven men are
ready for duty. I have submitted a request for a campaign ribbon for Lt
Valerian who was able to get to the Krazzle team and recover the virus
papers and samples. "
Wakakoe: just behind the Captain, "Two patients in Sick Bay currently both
marines. Cases are Serious but not Critical. They should recover in about
three weeks for light duty. The EMH was faulty and prescribing the wrong
medication to the chief engineer." He states with a straight face. "The
problem has been corrected. The last vestiges of the virus have been cured
and is no longer a threat. The records have been added to our database and
the originals with logs have been sealed per Starfleet Regs and will be
turned over to the personnel on Dante base for further research."
McAllister: satisfied with the current reports, "Excellent, we appear to
have done well on this one. My commendations on a job well done....."
interrupted by Sanders on Comm.
Sanders listening attentively to her comm, "Captain on am receiving an all
band Distress call on all channels. It appears to be from the Krazzle
planet Pale."
McAllister: alert, "On screen."
Screen: frantic controller, sounds of explosions, screams and panic noises
in background.
" .... under unprovoked attack by a Federation Craft...." screen flickers
as a large explosion is heard, " ......USS Unicorn was identified
....Marine contingents from the attacking vessel have landed after
destroying four destroyers under Lord Talphon in protective orbit......"
High pitched squeal. "Atomics are now being used against the planet. PDC
has been destroyed......young and old alike mercilessly slaughtered.
Attempted peaceful negotiations with the Captain McAllister of the
attacking vessel and a Minjay called Jmin. The negotiating party was
betrayed and killed. Baron Sardhin and his family were murdered......."
Large explosion.....High pitched squeal as Krazzle communicator is
melted....static and no further messages.
Sanders: listening in shock, "Krazzle comm traffic increasing. Reports of
Fleet Wide alerts. The Krazzle have started search patterns. They are
looking for us Captain. We have been branded as murderers of the planetary
population. Rescue teams have been dispatched to Pale. They will arrive
before we can get back there. Krazzle high command has signaled Federation
Council denouncing the attack and is demanding to be heard by the
Federation Council. They are demanding that we be arrested for trial in a
Krazzle court. Incoming message from Admiral Jarovik....."
McAllister: grimly while the rest stare in shock, "Admiral on screen,
Sanders."
Jarovik: grimly and steely eyed, "Captain McAllister, You are relieved of
Command pending a Board of Inquiry into this matter. Your Executive Officer
is to assume command. The Unicorn is hereby ordered to report to Dante
Base. Crew is confined to ship. All officers at that time will be relieved
of duties. Star Base personnel and Security will guard your ship. I don't
know what is going on in your ship Captain, but so help me if your guilty
of murder you will wish you never heard of Starfleet. Jarovic out!"
XO: "Captain we are picking up a small Krazzle shuttle, it is signaling
us."
Sanders: anticipating the command, "They are hailing us Sir, They claim to
be unarmed and are a diplomatic party. They wish to speak with the senior
officer and wish to be taken to address the Federation High Council.
Putting him on screen."

OFF>>>

<McAllister>
<<USS Unicorn, Bridge, after announcement form Jarovik and Krazzle>>

$---Relieved of Command---$

ON:

Captain McAllister sat on his Bridge in a stunned silence. It was tribute
to him and his command that no one on moved to immediately remove him from
the Bridge, as would have been only justified considering the Admiral's
message.
As McAllister gathered his thoughts, Kira Malsten had a decision to make.
The Krazzle diplomat was still waiting a reply, but who did she remind of
that fact. Captain McAllister or Commander R'ynoc? A minor choice to make,
but it would set the mood on the Unicorn for days to come.
Lt. Malsten, CSO: *mildly clearing her throat* Captain McAllister?
The Krazzle are waiting for a reply.
Everyone on the Bridge looked at Commander R'ynoc, the new and unknown (to
them) executive officer. Brought on board by McAllister, he was the only
one who knew any of her history. Thus far, her performance on board the
Unicorn had not inspired confidence in the crew. But the senior officers
also knew that by order of the Admiral, command of the Unicorn was hers to
take -- if she decided to do so.
McAllister glanced over to his XO with a questioning look in his eyes. She
returned his gaze for what seemed like an eternity, then quite pointedly
looked away again, keeping silent.
Captain McAllister, CO: *nodding in appreciation to all his crew* Lt.
Malsten, send my compliments to the Krazzle and inform them we will be happy
to receive their diplomatic envoy in thirty minutes. Advise them that we
have a schedule to keep and will be traveling in Federation space for the
rest of our journey -- it would be best for the Krazzle party to beam aboard
the Unicorn and send their ship to the border. Let's see how they react to
that.
McAllister stood and clasped his hands behind his back.
CO: Ms. Sanders, ready a long-range sensor probe -- target the Pale. I
want to know everything that happened there after we left. There's a good
chance it will get blown out of space before it gets to the Pale, but it may
get close enough to give us some data before it's destroyed. *McAllister
turned to R'ynoc* You have a job to do.
Commander R'ynoc, XO: This isn't necessary, sir.
CO: *smiling* Do your duty, Commander.
XO: *standing -- in her official Starfleet voice* Captain McAllister,
in accordance with orders received and acknowledged from STOAT command, I do
hearby relieve you of command of the USS Unicorn.
CO: *nodding* Computer, this is Captain McAllister. Transfer command
codes to Commander R'ynoc, authorization McAllister Omega Four Alpha.
Acey: Authorization confirmed. Command codes transferred to Commander
R'ynoc.
CO: I stand relieved.
McAllister began to walk towards the lift when he was interrupted by Command
er R'ynoc.
R'ynoc: A moment, sir, if you please?
McAllister turned, questions again in his eyes.
R'ynoc: Sir, a diplomatic envoy will be boarding this ship in about
thirty minutes or so....and they have requested to meet with the senior
officer present. Although you have been relieved of command of this vessel,
you still are the senior officer available. Therefore, it is my duty to
provide you with all assistance necessary to fulfill your diplomatic
mission. "My" ready room is yours, sir, and the Unicorn is at your
disposal.
McAllister: *slightly stunned and a bit embarrassed* Thank you,
Commander. Thank-you all (facing all crew assembled).
R'ynoc: Computer, please confirm that Captain P.D. McAllister is the
senior officer present aboard the Unicorn.
Acey: Captain McAllister is the senior officer aboard.
R'ynoc: And are there any other Federation ships in the immediate
vicinity?
Acey: There are no other Federation ships in the same sector as the USS
Unicorn.
R'ynoc: Then, in accordance with General Orders regarding diplomatic
contact with a hostile alien race, please log that Captain McAllister
retains ambassadorial rights and privileges until such time as he is
relieved personally by a senior officer or a member of the diplomatic corps.
Acey: Logged.
R'ynoc: *with a grin* Welcome aboard, Ambassador. What are your
orders, sir?
McAllister: The ship is yours, "Captain." Please join me in greeting the
Krazzle envoy in the transporter room --- they have agreed with our, uh
advice, Lt. Malsten?
Malsten: *a bit surprised* Aye, sir, although that gives away an
enormous advantage.
McAllister: I agree. Captain, if I might have the services of a security
team when they come aboard, and Lt. J'min as an advisor?
R'ynoc: Of course. Two security for each Krazzle?
McAllister: That would be fine, although I recommend increased
surveillance.
R'ynoc: I agree. See to it, Lt. Malsten.
Malsten: Aye, sir!
McAllister: Thank you. I'll be in my quarters seeing if my dress uniform
still fits.

OFF:

Well, there we are. The rule against two "captains" still applies, so it's
appropriate to address R'ynoc as Captain and McAllister as Ambassador -- it
this wasn't now a diplomatic mission, he would be addressed as Commodore --
at least until the court-martial :-) then it might be "Private!"

P.D. McAllister
Captain, USS Unicorn
Ambassador re: Krazzle

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