The in-game map has some pretty porous borders...I hate that we can't see exactly where the borders between the Federation and *any* power really lie.
It's not to say I didn't study WWI...that said, Versailles tends to be taught as a grave mistake, so it was one I imagined the Feds having in the back of their minds when they dictated terms, along with some other stuff that I don't want to go into.
However, there is also a sound argument for people 400 years into the future forgetting the distant past even with a good education, so if that cautionary lesson was *not* on anybody's mind, I could easily see it leading to a repeat of Versailles' errors, as it did in your universe. Who knows...the key difference between your universe and mine could have been as simple as one personnel change on the diplomatic team.
I look forward to seeing how that reaction from the Klingons goes down, and how Ryan (and maybe Kutari) gets out of his jam!
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WARNING: Again, this chapter contains instances of severe (though non-graphic) violence which may be unsuitable for young ages, including up to 16-years old.
Chapter Eight: This Will Not End Well.
Paris, Earth. Office of Ambassador Jiro Sugihara.
"This is an outrage!" The Klingon Ambassadors roar of anger fills the room, as Fleet Admiral William Ross stands next to the Japanese Ambassadors desk, arms folded.
"Ambassador K'Tere--" Sugihara is unable to finish his sentence before the Klingon, KTerek, continues his tirade.
"The Klingon Empire will not stand by while the Federation conspires with Cardassian terrorists behind our backs!"
"Actually, the True Way abducted Commander Allington. He was sent to meet the Detapa Council." Ross unfolds his arms, looking KTerek in the eyes.
"They are Cardassians!" KTerek snaps. "They have no honour!"
"Ambassador, if the fact that were in talks with the legitimate government of Cardassia - a government you supported, I would add - troubles you so much, then by all means pull out of the ceasefire. I'll have the Fleet out of your space within two days."
"You cannot be serious!"
"Good luck against the Borg."
"The High Council protests--!"
Sugihara stands from his seat. "Let them. The Federation Diplomatic Office's decision stands. The Federation will continue to negotiate with the Cardassian Government regarding our part in the Treaty of Bajor. Now, will you kindly leave or must I call security to throw you out?"
K'Terek growls as he marches towards the door. "You havent heard the last of this, gentlemen! Of that, I swear!"
As the door closes behind him, Sugihara sighs, sitting back in his chair. "That could have gone better..."
"Did you notice?" Ross turns to him, his haggard face expressing a feeling of morbid curiosity. "How the Hell did they find out about Commander Allington so quickly? Its only been a few days. I havent even told Jorel or Kathryn yet."
"Good point."
***
Stardate:87977.1. U.S.S. Victorious.
"Are you certain?" Carter stands from his station, looking at Alpha after he reads of the sensor results.
"Confirmed, sir. The ion trail leads to an M-Class planet in the next system; Prixin V." Alpha remains focused on his screen as Carter claps his hands together.
"Got you now, you little...!" He trails off before turning to Tala. "Sound General Quarters! All Stations!"
"Aye, sir." Tala taps a couple of keys as the lights dim down and the red alert illumination begins to pulse. "All decks, this is the Bridge! Red Alert! I repeat: Red Alert! This is not a drill! We are approaching a system presumed hostile! Red Alert! Red Alert!" She shuts off the intercom before looking at Carter. "Shall I notify Saph and Darnas?"
"Do it." Carter sits down as he waits for a full acknowledgement of General Quarters.
"They're responding. They're asking for 2 minutes to reach full readiness. All stations answering General Quarters."
"Understood. Raise shields, load Transphasic Torpedoes, charge Phaser Banks and polarise the Aft Plating. We're going in."
***
U.S.S. Oxford.
Daya runs onto the Bridge as the Red Alert klaxon blares over the speakers. "Styles, report!"
Lieutenant Commander Kyle Styles, the First Officer, rises from Daya's command seat and turns to her. "The Victorious has detected the enemy. Their ion trail ends at an M-Class planet in this system."
"Alright. Are weapons ready?"
"Yes, sir. We're ready for contact."
"Good. Karen, send a security time to Transporter Room 2. You have the Bridge, Commander." Daya turns back to the turbolift, before Styles grabs her by the arm.
"You aren't going down there?!"
"I'm not having this argument, Kyle. No one follows that reg and you know it."
"'Ill come with you."
"No. One of us has to be up here. The Captain is the most expendable crewmember. That makes you the least. That's an order."
Styles exhales, releasing her and standing down. "Good luck, Daya. Bring him back safely."
"That was the general idea." Daya smiles to him as she steps into the turbolift. "Transporter Room 2."
***
Prixin V, True Way Detention Camp.
"Commander, is it not true that you were under orders from your superior officers to enter negotiations with the Detapa Council members?" Kutari paces in front of Ryan, who is breathing shallowly, half slumped against the desk.
Ryan musters the strength to answer, just barely, blood trickling down the corner of his mouth. "Y...Yes..."
"Can we please have a recess?" Kutari turns to Kutar on the podium, with a sharp tone. "We cannot conduct a trial if the subject can barely lift his head, let alone speak!"
"The trial will continue." Kutar leans forward to look Kutari in the eyes. "Don't test my patience, Selek. I've entertained you far enough by allowing him to speak. Proceed."
Kutari glares at the militant, before turning back to Ryan. "And is it not true that you had been absent from your command for several days before the purported attack on the True Way vessels as a result of your incarceration?"
Ryan fails to respond.
"Commander?"
"Yes..." Ryan coughs as he attempts to lift his head again, succeeding only in smearing blood along the metal surface.
"Magistrate, I ask how a military officer can be held responsible for acts he committed under orders? I also ask how he can be held responsible for the actions of the Victorious following his incarceration?! The Federation have regulations which state that at such a time command passes down to the next in line along the Command hierarchy!"
"Silence!" Kutar snaps from the podium. "That is irrelevant! I remind the Advocate that this is not a Federation Tribunal, it is a Cardassian one!"
"But surely he deserves some leniency, if nothing else, considering he is not one of our citizens and thus is not subject to our laws?!"
"ENOUGH! The Advocate will complete his interview with this witness or he will be removed!" Kutar leans forward again. "Defy me again, Selek, and I will hold you in contempt!"
"Kutar, I have nothing but contempt! For you and your so-called court!"
"Guards!"
Kutari is knocked down in a howl of pain as the guards hit him at the base of the neck with their rifles, one of them planting a foot on his spine and holding the rifle to the back of his skull. Kutar holds out a hand to prevent them from executing him on the spot. "Replace the Advocate in his seat!"
Kutari is dragged onto his feet and placed in his chair, as he leans against the table by his elbows, breathing heavily, wheezing. Before proceedings can continue, a Glinn walks in and marches up to Kutar at the podium, as they discuss something in silence from the two hostages. Ryan slowly looks to Kutari and asks "What's happening...?"
"I don't know..." Kutari wheezes as he looks on. "But this will not end well..."
Yes! I was waiting to see Kutari blatantly snap like that. Ryan will carry awful scars for this but I suspect there is a difference between suffering completely alone and with someone else on his side, who could just as easily have taken the easy way out and compromised on his principles.
And wow...didn't know Sugihara had that kind of hardball negotiation style in him!
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Yes! I was waiting to see Kutari blatantly snap like that. Ryan will carry awful scars for this but I suspect there is a difference between suffering completely alone and with someone else on his side, who could just as easily have taken the easy way out and compromised on his principles.
And wow...didn't know Sugihara had that kind of hardball negotiation style in him!
Then again, when do we ever actually see him negotiate with anyone? I think we see him at a diplomatic meeting once and even then it's to tell us to get out because Tovan couldn't keep his trap shut.
Besides, it's easy to draw strength from your friend when your friend happens to be a Dominion War vet with a penchant for playing hardball with anything on two legs (some times more than that). :P
As for Ryan's scars, to quote Dr Keller from SG:A, 'Chicks dig scars'. :P Besides, they're all on his spine at this point!
On a serious note, one of those short stories I have planned is going to be centred around him recovering from this, physically and mentally.
Then again, when do we ever actually see him negotiate with anyone? I think we see him at a diplomatic meeting once and even then it's to tell us to get out because Tovan couldn't keep his trap shut.
Twice, actually, if memory serves - the first time is at Khitomer, where he talks the Romulan player's ears off with his incessant babbling. (Also, T'nae correctly presumes he'd give away half the Federation in an effort to 'build bridges'. :P)
The second time is at... Rator? Wherever 'Empress Sela' takes place, anyways - and I think his attitude is only slightly more realistic, if at all.
Infinite possibilities have implications that could not be completely understood if you turned this entire universe into a giant supercomputer.
Twice, actually, if memory serves - the first time is at Khitomer, where he talks the Romulan player's ears off with his incessant babbling. (Also, T'nae correctly presumes he'd give away half the Federation in an effort to 'build bridges'. :P)
The second time is at... Rator? Wherever 'Empress Sela' takes place, anyways - and I think his attitude is only slightly more realistic, if at all.
Ah, I haven't played the new Romulan Mystery missions yet.
Like I said though, easy to draw strength from those around you when the only person around you is someone like Ross.
Besides, it's easy to draw strength from your friend when your friend happens to be a Dominion War vet with a penchant for playing hardball with anything on two legs (some times more than that). :P
That's possible, that being with a "warrior" with that kind of rep would embolden him. But it remained a shocking display of competence.
On a serious note, one of those short stories I have planned is going to be centred around him recovering from this, physically and mentally.
I definitely look forward to seeing that. I love those kinds of psychological, tightly-focused character stories.
Twice, actually, if memory serves - the first time is at Khitomer, where he talks the Romulan player's ears off with his incessant babbling. (Also, T'nae correctly presumes he'd give away half the Federation in an effort to 'build bridges'. :P)
The second time is at... Rator? Wherever 'Empress Sela' takes place, anyways - and I think his attitude is only slightly more realistic, if at all.
I think he's also seen in "Surface Tension" bloviating, and as I recall, just gets cut off like he's a complete joke, and also lets the Klingon ambassador run roughshod over him. Maybe he learned his lesson from that incident...?
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I think he's also seen in "Surface Tension" bloviating, and as I recall, just gets cut off like he's a complete joke, and also lets the Klingon ambassador run roughshod over him. Maybe he learned his lesson from that incident...?
I enjoyed that. Captain Shon just had enough of his hot air.
Your father was captain of a starship for twelve minutes. He saved 800 lives, including your mother's, and yours.
Sparks fall from the ceiling at the aft of the Bridge as a pair of Hidekis strafe the aft section of the ship, before Carter takes his seat in the command chair and looks at Heja. Follow them out, Ensign! Tala, lock torpedoes and fire when ready!
A pair of chimes sound from the tactical station as two golden lights scream from the torpedo tubes and slam into both Hidekis, one hitting the shield and the other penetrating as the second Hideki disappears behind an orange fireball. Tala fires a burst from the phaser array to clip the last Hidekis port impulse engine before the bridge shakes again. Two Galors, coming in hot!
All hands, brace for impact! Fire at will!
Diverting power to starboard shields! Firing phasers!
The two Galors open fire, bombarding the shields of the Ambassador-Class Starship before they are driven off by a hail of amber torpedoes as the C.D.V. Damar and another CDF Galor race across the Victorious keel.
Meanwhile, the U.S.S. Oxford trades torpedo volleys with a True Way Keldon as the Keldon tries to break orbit. Styles looks to the ships tactical officer. Keep us above them. They cant manoeuvre well this close to the planet.
Aye sir. The tactical officer fires another torpedo salvo before the Keldon breaks apart and begins to fall into the atmosphere. Target destroyed. Sir, Darnas and the Victorious are getting surrounded.
Acknowledged. Victorious, this is the Oxford, we can swing around to assist.
Carters voice crackles over the viewscreen. Negative! Well hold out, you get--! The signal cuts out in a haze of static.
What happened?
The True Way are jamming us! Theyve filled every subspace channel with static! The tactical officer slams his palm against the control panel.
Bridge to Commander Saph, stand by for transport.
***
On the planet, Kutar stands from the podium. I have just been informed that we are under attack by the Federation. In response to their wanton violation of Cardassian Sovereignty, I am forced to expedite these proceedings. Commander Ryan Allington, you have committed multiple crimes against the people of Cardassia. The punishment is death. As we have no time to hang you, you shall die here by phaser fire. Guards!
Kutar, no! Kutari steps in front of Ryan, stopping the guards from reaching him. If you truly stand for the old ways, you know you cannot do this! This is a violation of the old judicial code! You cannot execute him summarily halfway through a trial! Kutari is grabbed by a guard and violently thrown to the side, with Ryan pulled from his seat and beaten to his knees, as phaser fire can be heard in the background. If you kill him, you only prove that the True Way is a lie! Kutar pulls out his phaser pistol as a guard pulls Ryans bloodied face up to watch. Scrain!
***
Daya quickly dashes across the corridor junction as a yellow Cardassian Phaser beam glides past her head, before turning and firing her phaser at the last remaining guard at the door to the courtroom. Daya runs over to the door, brushing her hair out of her face as she pulls out a tricorder. Its duranium. Thin enough to phaser through. Set to level 10!
She stands back as she and the rest of the team begin cutting a hole in the door with their hand-phasers. Just as they get towards the end, they hear an elderly voice shout, Scrain!, followed by a coarse ring which resembles a muffled phaser blast, before the door comes crashing down and Daya quickly shoots the two remaining guards in the back, seeing Ryan fall forward onto his hands and knees while Gul Kutar turns his phaser on her.
Drop it! Daya holds her phaser steady, stepping into the room before Kutar drops under one of the desks and fires at her. Daya quickly rolls to the side and out of danger as the security team starts laying down suppressing fire. Set to stun! I want him alive! She hurries over to check on Ryan. Can you walk?
Ryan coughs out a mouthful of blood. Kutari...? He looks around, seeing the body of an elderly Cardassian lying face down on the ground, before sighing and falling against Daya.
Daya quickly twists around to let him sit down. Ensign Sandir! I need a medic!
Ryan tries to focus his eyes on the myriad of colours in the near distance; silver, orange and yellow. His vision begins to stop blurring and sharpens to the point where he can make out Scrain Kutar, directing his phaser towards his Trill rescuer. He quickly reaches for one of the guards fallen pistols, grabbing it and firing in a matter of seconds. The orange phaser beam screams across the room, slamming against the hardened polymer of Kutars body armour and singing through to the under-uniform and from there to the flesh.
Daya turns to see the Cardassian Guls weapon clatter on the floor, his uniform charred to a crisp in the centre of his chest, before he falls onto his back. She looks back at Ryan, seeing a cold, hard glare on his face as a medic rushes over. Check that Cardassian over. I think hes a civilian. Daya directs the medic in Kutaris direction, before the medic turns the body over, revealing a phaser burn to his shoulder. Hed jumped in front of Kutars execution blast at the last moment, but hes still breathing - just. Daya looks at Ryan, whos frozen stiff, his arm still outstretched, looking at the Cardassian extremist hed just killed. Daya slowly places her hand on the Cardassian Phaser hes still clutching, carefully pushing it down and taking it out of his hands. Saph to Oxford, three to beam directly to sickbay.
Well, that one was rough - as to the good Federation Ambassador - his skillset in universe seems to be talking until the other side gives in at the diplomacy table just to make him stop (if you can stand it and listen to him go on at the Khitomer conference as a Republic captain, he'll sort of say off-hand he hopes this will lead to an effective annexation of Republic space by Vulcan. T'Nae underestimates him)
This was a good read - lots of action and some characterization - looking forward to what short story results!
Fate - protects fools, small children, and ships named Enterprise Will Riker
Member Access Denied Armada!
My forum single-issue of rage: Make the Proton Experimental Weapon go for subsystem targetting!
Anyway, this was a VERY good section. That final look at Ryan is very powerful--you can really see how damaged he has been both physically and mentally by his experience. Yet it seems...though only time will tell...that perhaps his hatred is reserved for individuals as opposed to becoming racial hatred. Either way healing is going to be difficult--but that IMO gives him more hope to be able to recover as a functioning Starfleet officer.
Some of that maybe the doing of Kutari Selek, who demonstrated here the highest form of character imaginable--not only committed to his principles in word, but in deed to the fullest.
Now as we move on, I suspect we'll be learning the extent of the sacrifices that everyone has made...
I look forward to seeing it!
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Acting Captains Log, Stardate: 87980.7. Lieutenant Commander Michael Carter, First Officer, U.S.S. Victorious, recording.
Commander Allington is now back on board the Victorious following a preliminary medical evaluation aboard the U.S.S. Oxford. Doctor Varenn has told me that his injuries are not life-threatening, although his recovery will take at least a week. The Cardassian Advocate, Kutari Selek, has been transferred to the C.D.V. Damar for passage back to Cardassia Prime. In the meantime, the Victorious wwill be accompanied back to Deep Space 9 for some much needed repairs and relaxation.
End of Log.
Finally! Dannover exclaims as she reads a PADD handed to her by the Oxfords Bolian Chief Engineer Brax. Do you know how long Ive been waiting for the updated Victorious technical manuals?!
I figured since half the schematics you gave my teams seemed improvised with about 50 notes each, youd had to make them up on the fly. I put in a request with Admiral LaForge yesterday. Brax passes her a cup of coffee. I took the liberty of making a few recommendations on how to boost your warp core output. I realise its a different engine to that on the Oxford, but...
Ill give them a look. Its going to take DS9 a week to overhaul our systems anyway, and thats the conservative estimate as in assuming their Operations Chief bothers to read the technical manuals for this ship.
Which they never do, which means we the people who actually maintain our ships and know what were doing, have to play babysitter to the same people who are looking over our shoulders like we dont know what were doing!
And thats if were lucky! They walk over to the Master Systems Display as Dannover sets her coffee down, blinking at the PADD. Huh.
What?
This ship actually has hull polarisation built-in.
No kidding? Brax leans on the table, looking at the PADD.
Apparently it was installed during the Dominion War and never removed.
So all that work we did by-passing this ships shield grid like a Christmas tree...?
Was a complete and utter waste of time.
The two look at each other, before bursting out laughing as the rest of the Engineering staff look at them, confused.
***
Meanwhile, Carter is seated in the Observation Lounge with Ilyana and Garak, going over Ryans treaty amendments before glancing at Garak. You want us to reactivate 5 of your shipyards and return Empok Nor?
With added fleet capacity comes the need to supply them with sufficient support. Garak maintains his signature grin once more, starting to aggravate Carter.
You dont need 5 shipyards to do that. And Empok Nor is barely habitable!
Consider, those shipyards weve requested are in strategic locations to hamper True Way activities. And the True Way have already used Empok Nor for their own purposes in the past.
Besides, Ilyana interjects, We need to get an extra 100 ships into service in short order and we need a shipyard capable of servicing a Hutet-Class Dreadnought.
Carter sighs, dropping his PADD down onto the table and rubbing two fingers of either hand against his temples. Should have bought painkillers...
***
Ryan is seated on a biobed, with the Trill Doctor Taria Varenn completing a few final medical scans. Your CNS is still reasonably damaged. She closes the tricorder as she hands Ryan a metal cane. And since youve been off your feet for a while, I would really suggest using this until your recovery is complete.
Ryan takes the cane, nodding silently to Varenn as Daya steps forward from the corner of the room. When can he return to duty?
Varenn pauses for a moment, before looking at Ryan. You have 8 weeks medical leave.
2 months?
Commander, his back took such a beating he could barely speak, lift his head or even keep consciousness. And thats forgetting the psychological trauma.
Im not second-guessing you, doc... Daya sits down next to Ryan, who seems to be oblivious to their conversation. Ryan?
Ryan slowly looks at her, smiling weakly.
Are you okay?
Ryan looks down, deep in thought, seemingly closed off for several moments, before looking back at her and simply muttering a single word, No.
***
Author Notes:
Well, that's the ending! As I said, I will be writing a couple of short stories before I write my next big fic, so if anyone has any requests for a short story, let me know below!
I look forward to seeing what happens to Ryan. Though I do see one sign of hope even as severely damaged as he is: he knows and *admits* he is. Trying to soldier on in total denial could be worse in the long run, though to be sure he's got a hard road ahead of him either way.
Cardassian fan that I am, I find myself wondering what awaits the Advocate at home as he heals. Or if he is entirely out of the woods yet.
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I look forward to seeing what happens to Ryan. Though I do see one sign of hope even as severely damaged as he is: he knows and *admits* he is. Trying to soldier on in total denial could be worse in the long run, though to be sure he's got a hard road ahead of him either way.
Cardassian fan that I am, I find myself wondering what awaits the Advocate at home as he heals. Or if he is entirely out of the woods yet.
Thanks! I would definitely like to develop on Kutari and I have several story ideas in mind while Ryan recovers.
As you may have guessed, this story was largely inspired by TNG Chain of Command, and I've absolutely enjoyed writing this. I think this is the biggest spotlight Daya's ever had in one of my works.
Thanks! I would definitely like to develop on Kutari and I have several story ideas in mind while Ryan recovers.
As you may have guessed, this story was largely inspired by TNG Chain of Command, and I've absolutely enjoyed writing this. I think this is the biggest spotlight Daya's ever had in one of my works.
I like that you plan to deal with the aftermath. Other than Picard's assimilation, TNG in particular was very poor on the follow-up for these kinds of traumas--including Chain of Command.
And yay, more Kutari!
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Comments
The in-game map has some pretty porous borders...I hate that we can't see exactly where the borders between the Federation and *any* power really lie.
It's not to say I didn't study WWI...that said, Versailles tends to be taught as a grave mistake, so it was one I imagined the Feds having in the back of their minds when they dictated terms, along with some other stuff that I don't want to go into.
However, there is also a sound argument for people 400 years into the future forgetting the distant past even with a good education, so if that cautionary lesson was *not* on anybody's mind, I could easily see it leading to a repeat of Versailles' errors, as it did in your universe. Who knows...the key difference between your universe and mine could have been as simple as one personnel change on the diplomatic team.
I look forward to seeing how that reaction from the Klingons goes down, and how Ryan (and maybe Kutari) gets out of his jam!
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Paris, Earth. Office of Ambassador Jiro Sugihara.
"This is an outrage!" The Klingon Ambassadors roar of anger fills the room, as Fleet Admiral William Ross stands next to the Japanese Ambassadors desk, arms folded.
"Ambassador K'Tere--" Sugihara is unable to finish his sentence before the Klingon, KTerek, continues his tirade.
"The Klingon Empire will not stand by while the Federation conspires with Cardassian terrorists behind our backs!"
"Actually, the True Way abducted Commander Allington. He was sent to meet the Detapa Council." Ross unfolds his arms, looking KTerek in the eyes.
"They are Cardassians!" KTerek snaps. "They have no honour!"
"Ambassador, if the fact that were in talks with the legitimate government of Cardassia - a government you supported, I would add - troubles you so much, then by all means pull out of the ceasefire. I'll have the Fleet out of your space within two days."
"You cannot be serious!"
"Good luck against the Borg."
"The High Council protests--!"
Sugihara stands from his seat. "Let them. The Federation Diplomatic Office's decision stands. The Federation will continue to negotiate with the Cardassian Government regarding our part in the Treaty of Bajor. Now, will you kindly leave or must I call security to throw you out?"
K'Terek growls as he marches towards the door. "You havent heard the last of this, gentlemen! Of that, I swear!"
As the door closes behind him, Sugihara sighs, sitting back in his chair. "That could have gone better..."
"Did you notice?" Ross turns to him, his haggard face expressing a feeling of morbid curiosity. "How the Hell did they find out about Commander Allington so quickly? Its only been a few days. I havent even told Jorel or Kathryn yet."
"Good point."
***
Stardate:87977.1. U.S.S. Victorious.
"Are you certain?" Carter stands from his station, looking at Alpha after he reads of the sensor results.
"Confirmed, sir. The ion trail leads to an M-Class planet in the next system; Prixin V." Alpha remains focused on his screen as Carter claps his hands together.
"Got you now, you little...!" He trails off before turning to Tala. "Sound General Quarters! All Stations!"
"Aye, sir." Tala taps a couple of keys as the lights dim down and the red alert illumination begins to pulse. "All decks, this is the Bridge! Red Alert! I repeat: Red Alert! This is not a drill! We are approaching a system presumed hostile! Red Alert! Red Alert!" She shuts off the intercom before looking at Carter. "Shall I notify Saph and Darnas?"
"Do it." Carter sits down as he waits for a full acknowledgement of General Quarters.
"They're responding. They're asking for 2 minutes to reach full readiness. All stations answering General Quarters."
"Understood. Raise shields, load Transphasic Torpedoes, charge Phaser Banks and polarise the Aft Plating. We're going in."
***
U.S.S. Oxford.
Daya runs onto the Bridge as the Red Alert klaxon blares over the speakers. "Styles, report!"
Lieutenant Commander Kyle Styles, the First Officer, rises from Daya's command seat and turns to her. "The Victorious has detected the enemy. Their ion trail ends at an M-Class planet in this system."
"Alright. Are weapons ready?"
"Yes, sir. We're ready for contact."
"Good. Karen, send a security time to Transporter Room 2. You have the Bridge, Commander." Daya turns back to the turbolift, before Styles grabs her by the arm.
"You aren't going down there?!"
"I'm not having this argument, Kyle. No one follows that reg and you know it."
"'Ill come with you."
"No. One of us has to be up here. The Captain is the most expendable crewmember. That makes you the least. That's an order."
Styles exhales, releasing her and standing down. "Good luck, Daya. Bring him back safely."
"That was the general idea." Daya smiles to him as she steps into the turbolift. "Transporter Room 2."
***
Prixin V, True Way Detention Camp.
"Commander, is it not true that you were under orders from your superior officers to enter negotiations with the Detapa Council members?" Kutari paces in front of Ryan, who is breathing shallowly, half slumped against the desk.
Ryan musters the strength to answer, just barely, blood trickling down the corner of his mouth. "Y...Yes..."
"Can we please have a recess?" Kutari turns to Kutar on the podium, with a sharp tone. "We cannot conduct a trial if the subject can barely lift his head, let alone speak!"
"The trial will continue." Kutar leans forward to look Kutari in the eyes. "Don't test my patience, Selek. I've entertained you far enough by allowing him to speak. Proceed."
Kutari glares at the militant, before turning back to Ryan. "And is it not true that you had been absent from your command for several days before the purported attack on the True Way vessels as a result of your incarceration?"
Ryan fails to respond.
"Commander?"
"Yes..." Ryan coughs as he attempts to lift his head again, succeeding only in smearing blood along the metal surface.
"Magistrate, I ask how a military officer can be held responsible for acts he committed under orders? I also ask how he can be held responsible for the actions of the Victorious following his incarceration?! The Federation have regulations which state that at such a time command passes down to the next in line along the Command hierarchy!"
"Silence!" Kutar snaps from the podium. "That is irrelevant! I remind the Advocate that this is not a Federation Tribunal, it is a Cardassian one!"
"But surely he deserves some leniency, if nothing else, considering he is not one of our citizens and thus is not subject to our laws?!"
"ENOUGH! The Advocate will complete his interview with this witness or he will be removed!" Kutar leans forward again. "Defy me again, Selek, and I will hold you in contempt!"
"Kutar, I have nothing but contempt! For you and your so-called court!"
"Guards!"
Kutari is knocked down in a howl of pain as the guards hit him at the base of the neck with their rifles, one of them planting a foot on his spine and holding the rifle to the back of his skull. Kutar holds out a hand to prevent them from executing him on the spot. "Replace the Advocate in his seat!"
Kutari is dragged onto his feet and placed in his chair, as he leans against the table by his elbows, breathing heavily, wheezing. Before proceedings can continue, a Glinn walks in and marches up to Kutar at the podium, as they discuss something in silence from the two hostages. Ryan slowly looks to Kutari and asks "What's happening...?"
"I don't know..." Kutari wheezes as he looks on. "But this will not end well..."
Trials of Blood and Fire
Moving On Parts 1-3 - Part 4
In Cold Blood
And wow...didn't know Sugihara had that kind of hardball negotiation style in him!
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Then again, when do we ever actually see him negotiate with anyone?
Besides, it's easy to draw strength from your friend when your friend happens to be a Dominion War vet with a penchant for playing hardball with anything on two legs (some times more than that). :P
As for Ryan's scars, to quote Dr Keller from SG:A, 'Chicks dig scars'. :P Besides, they're all on his spine at this point!
On a serious note, one of those short stories I have planned is going to be centred around him recovering from this, physically and mentally.
Trials of Blood and Fire
Moving On Parts 1-3 - Part 4
In Cold Blood
Twice, actually, if memory serves - the first time is at Khitomer, where he talks the Romulan player's ears off with his incessant babbling. (Also, T'nae correctly presumes he'd give away half the Federation in an effort to 'build bridges'. :P)
The second time is at... Rator? Wherever 'Empress Sela' takes place, anyways - and I think his attitude is only slightly more realistic, if at all.
Infinite possibilities have implications that could not be completely understood if you turned this entire universe into a giant supercomputer.
Ah, I haven't played the new Romulan Mystery missions yet.
Like I said though, easy to draw strength from those around you when the only person around you is someone like Ross.
Trials of Blood and Fire
Moving On Parts 1-3 - Part 4
In Cold Blood
Nice catch!
Fixed.
Trials of Blood and Fire
Moving On Parts 1-3 - Part 4
In Cold Blood
No worries
That's possible, that being with a "warrior" with that kind of rep would embolden him. But it remained a shocking display of competence.
I definitely look forward to seeing that. I love those kinds of psychological, tightly-focused character stories.
I think he's also seen in "Surface Tension" bloviating, and as I recall, just gets cut off like he's a complete joke, and also lets the Klingon ambassador run roughshod over him. Maybe he learned his lesson from that incident...?
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I enjoyed that. Captain Shon just had enough of his hot air.
Your father was captain of a starship for twelve minutes. He saved 800 lives, including your mother's, and yours.
I dare you to do better.
U.S.S. Victorious.
Sparks fall from the ceiling at the aft of the Bridge as a pair of Hidekis strafe the aft section of the ship, before Carter takes his seat in the command chair and looks at Heja. Follow them out, Ensign! Tala, lock torpedoes and fire when ready!
A pair of chimes sound from the tactical station as two golden lights scream from the torpedo tubes and slam into both Hidekis, one hitting the shield and the other penetrating as the second Hideki disappears behind an orange fireball. Tala fires a burst from the phaser array to clip the last Hidekis port impulse engine before the bridge shakes again. Two Galors, coming in hot!
All hands, brace for impact! Fire at will!
Diverting power to starboard shields! Firing phasers!
The two Galors open fire, bombarding the shields of the Ambassador-Class Starship before they are driven off by a hail of amber torpedoes as the C.D.V. Damar and another CDF Galor race across the Victorious keel.
Meanwhile, the U.S.S. Oxford trades torpedo volleys with a True Way Keldon as the Keldon tries to break orbit. Styles looks to the ships tactical officer. Keep us above them. They cant manoeuvre well this close to the planet.
Aye sir. The tactical officer fires another torpedo salvo before the Keldon breaks apart and begins to fall into the atmosphere. Target destroyed. Sir, Darnas and the Victorious are getting surrounded.
Acknowledged. Victorious, this is the Oxford, we can swing around to assist.
Carters voice crackles over the viewscreen. Negative! Well hold out, you get--! The signal cuts out in a haze of static.
What happened?
The True Way are jamming us! Theyve filled every subspace channel with static! The tactical officer slams his palm against the control panel.
Bridge to Commander Saph, stand by for transport.
***
On the planet, Kutar stands from the podium. I have just been informed that we are under attack by the Federation. In response to their wanton violation of Cardassian Sovereignty, I am forced to expedite these proceedings. Commander Ryan Allington, you have committed multiple crimes against the people of Cardassia. The punishment is death. As we have no time to hang you, you shall die here by phaser fire. Guards!
Kutar, no! Kutari steps in front of Ryan, stopping the guards from reaching him. If you truly stand for the old ways, you know you cannot do this! This is a violation of the old judicial code! You cannot execute him summarily halfway through a trial! Kutari is grabbed by a guard and violently thrown to the side, with Ryan pulled from his seat and beaten to his knees, as phaser fire can be heard in the background. If you kill him, you only prove that the True Way is a lie! Kutar pulls out his phaser pistol as a guard pulls Ryans bloodied face up to watch. Scrain!
***
Daya quickly dashes across the corridor junction as a yellow Cardassian Phaser beam glides past her head, before turning and firing her phaser at the last remaining guard at the door to the courtroom. Daya runs over to the door, brushing her hair out of her face as she pulls out a tricorder. Its duranium. Thin enough to phaser through. Set to level 10!
She stands back as she and the rest of the team begin cutting a hole in the door with their hand-phasers. Just as they get towards the end, they hear an elderly voice shout, Scrain!, followed by a coarse ring which resembles a muffled phaser blast, before the door comes crashing down and Daya quickly shoots the two remaining guards in the back, seeing Ryan fall forward onto his hands and knees while Gul Kutar turns his phaser on her.
Drop it! Daya holds her phaser steady, stepping into the room before Kutar drops under one of the desks and fires at her. Daya quickly rolls to the side and out of danger as the security team starts laying down suppressing fire. Set to stun! I want him alive! She hurries over to check on Ryan. Can you walk?
Ryan coughs out a mouthful of blood. Kutari...? He looks around, seeing the body of an elderly Cardassian lying face down on the ground, before sighing and falling against Daya.
Daya quickly twists around to let him sit down. Ensign Sandir! I need a medic!
Ryan tries to focus his eyes on the myriad of colours in the near distance; silver, orange and yellow. His vision begins to stop blurring and sharpens to the point where he can make out Scrain Kutar, directing his phaser towards his Trill rescuer. He quickly reaches for one of the guards fallen pistols, grabbing it and firing in a matter of seconds. The orange phaser beam screams across the room, slamming against the hardened polymer of Kutars body armour and singing through to the under-uniform and from there to the flesh.
Daya turns to see the Cardassian Guls weapon clatter on the floor, his uniform charred to a crisp in the centre of his chest, before he falls onto his back. She looks back at Ryan, seeing a cold, hard glare on his face as a medic rushes over. Check that Cardassian over. I think hes a civilian. Daya directs the medic in Kutaris direction, before the medic turns the body over, revealing a phaser burn to his shoulder. Hed jumped in front of Kutars execution blast at the last moment, but hes still breathing - just. Daya looks at Ryan, whos frozen stiff, his arm still outstretched, looking at the Cardassian extremist hed just killed. Daya slowly places her hand on the Cardassian Phaser hes still clutching, carefully pushing it down and taking it out of his hands. Saph to Oxford, three to beam directly to sickbay.
Trials of Blood and Fire
Moving On Parts 1-3 - Part 4
In Cold Blood
This was a good read - lots of action and some characterization - looking forward to what short story results!
Member Access Denied Armada!
My forum single-issue of rage: Make the Proton Experimental Weapon go for subsystem targetting!
Anyway, this was a VERY good section. That final look at Ryan is very powerful--you can really see how damaged he has been both physically and mentally by his experience. Yet it seems...though only time will tell...that perhaps his hatred is reserved for individuals as opposed to becoming racial hatred. Either way healing is going to be difficult--but that IMO gives him more hope to be able to recover as a functioning Starfleet officer.
Some of that maybe the doing of Kutari Selek, who demonstrated here the highest form of character imaginable--not only committed to his principles in word, but in deed to the fullest.
Now as we move on, I suspect we'll be learning the extent of the sacrifices that everyone has made...
I look forward to seeing it!
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Acting Captains Log, Stardate: 87980.7. Lieutenant Commander Michael Carter, First Officer, U.S.S. Victorious, recording.
Commander Allington is now back on board the Victorious following a preliminary medical evaluation aboard the U.S.S. Oxford. Doctor Varenn has told me that his injuries are not life-threatening, although his recovery will take at least a week. The Cardassian Advocate, Kutari Selek, has been transferred to the C.D.V. Damar for passage back to Cardassia Prime. In the meantime, the Victorious wwill be accompanied back to Deep Space 9 for some much needed repairs and relaxation.
End of Log.
Finally! Dannover exclaims as she reads a PADD handed to her by the Oxfords Bolian Chief Engineer Brax. Do you know how long Ive been waiting for the updated Victorious technical manuals?!
I figured since half the schematics you gave my teams seemed improvised with about 50 notes each, youd had to make them up on the fly. I put in a request with Admiral LaForge yesterday. Brax passes her a cup of coffee. I took the liberty of making a few recommendations on how to boost your warp core output. I realise its a different engine to that on the Oxford, but...
Ill give them a look. Its going to take DS9 a week to overhaul our systems anyway, and thats the conservative estimate as in assuming their Operations Chief bothers to read the technical manuals for this ship.
Which they never do, which means we the people who actually maintain our ships and know what were doing, have to play babysitter to the same people who are looking over our shoulders like we dont know what were doing!
And thats if were lucky! They walk over to the Master Systems Display as Dannover sets her coffee down, blinking at the PADD. Huh.
What?
This ship actually has hull polarisation built-in.
No kidding? Brax leans on the table, looking at the PADD.
Apparently it was installed during the Dominion War and never removed.
So all that work we did by-passing this ships shield grid like a Christmas tree...?
Was a complete and utter waste of time.
The two look at each other, before bursting out laughing as the rest of the Engineering staff look at them, confused.
***
Meanwhile, Carter is seated in the Observation Lounge with Ilyana and Garak, going over Ryans treaty amendments before glancing at Garak. You want us to reactivate 5 of your shipyards and return Empok Nor?
With added fleet capacity comes the need to supply them with sufficient support. Garak maintains his signature grin once more, starting to aggravate Carter.
You dont need 5 shipyards to do that. And Empok Nor is barely habitable!
Consider, those shipyards weve requested are in strategic locations to hamper True Way activities. And the True Way have already used Empok Nor for their own purposes in the past.
Besides, Ilyana interjects, We need to get an extra 100 ships into service in short order and we need a shipyard capable of servicing a Hutet-Class Dreadnought.
Carter sighs, dropping his PADD down onto the table and rubbing two fingers of either hand against his temples. Should have bought painkillers...
***
Ryan is seated on a biobed, with the Trill Doctor Taria Varenn completing a few final medical scans. Your CNS is still reasonably damaged. She closes the tricorder as she hands Ryan a metal cane. And since youve been off your feet for a while, I would really suggest using this until your recovery is complete.
Ryan takes the cane, nodding silently to Varenn as Daya steps forward from the corner of the room. When can he return to duty?
Varenn pauses for a moment, before looking at Ryan. You have 8 weeks medical leave.
2 months?
Commander, his back took such a beating he could barely speak, lift his head or even keep consciousness. And thats forgetting the psychological trauma.
Im not second-guessing you, doc... Daya sits down next to Ryan, who seems to be oblivious to their conversation. Ryan?
Ryan slowly looks at her, smiling weakly.
Are you okay?
Ryan looks down, deep in thought, seemingly closed off for several moments, before looking back at her and simply muttering a single word, No.
***
Author Notes:
Well, that's the ending! As I said, I will be writing a couple of short stories before I write my next big fic, so if anyone has any requests for a short story, let me know below!
Trials of Blood and Fire
Moving On Parts 1-3 - Part 4
In Cold Blood
I look forward to seeing what happens to Ryan. Though I do see one sign of hope even as severely damaged as he is: he knows and *admits* he is. Trying to soldier on in total denial could be worse in the long run, though to be sure he's got a hard road ahead of him either way.
Cardassian fan that I am, I find myself wondering what awaits the Advocate at home as he heals. Or if he is entirely out of the woods yet.
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Thanks! I would definitely like to develop on Kutari and I have several story ideas in mind while Ryan recovers.
As you may have guessed, this story was largely inspired by TNG Chain of Command, and I've absolutely enjoyed writing this. I think this is the biggest spotlight Daya's ever had in one of my works.
Trials of Blood and Fire
Moving On Parts 1-3 - Part 4
In Cold Blood
Member Access Denied Armada!
My forum single-issue of rage: Make the Proton Experimental Weapon go for subsystem targetting!
I like that you plan to deal with the aftermath. Other than Picard's assimilation, TNG in particular was very poor on the follow-up for these kinds of traumas--including Chain of Command.
And yay, more Kutari!
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