“Sir,” the subordinate stated, “We have not been able to regain contact with the captured Starfleet vessel.”
“Have we been able to capture any more vessels?”
“No, sir. It appears that Starfleet has come up with an effective countermeasure to the pathogen we planted in the Federation network.”
“What was the last known position of our capture?” the supervisor inquired.
“She was at half-impulse near Aloran IV engaged in combat with another vessel.”
“How come I wasn't told of this previously?”
“I don't know sir. The bandit has been identified as USS Ottawa, captain Jenna Carson commanding. We have no idea what Ottawa was doing in the Aloran system.”
“I suggest that you find out quickly?”
“Yes, sir!” the subordinate exclaimed.
“This bed is kind of small,” Bridget commented to her husband.
“It took you a week and a half to complain about the sleeping accommodations?” Richie fired back.
“I'm not complaining, I like having you close to me like this.”
“That's probably how we started a family,” Richie answered as sounds from the bassinet alerted the couple that their daughter was awake. “Speaking of which,” Richie continued, “Tiana is right on cue.” Richie moved over to the bassinet to pick up his 2-month old girl. “Hello there,” Richie said to his daughter. “You're a good little girl, though I think you're looking either to be fed, or have your diaper changed.” Richie examined the diaper while observing the facial expression of her little girl. “Mom, this one is yours.”
Bridget outstretched her arms to receive the baby. “Come here, Tiana. Something tells me you're hungry.” As Bridget breastfed her little one, she continued to talk to Richie. “You know, Sonara has been telling me about how Ensign Collins has been doing an exemplary job in the engine room.”
“It seems she's become more confident in herself. She'll probably make a good chief engineer someday. I'll have to ask her if she's ready to take on a little more responsibility.”
“That's something you should be familiar with,” Bridget wittingly replied as she handed Tiana back to her father.
“There's some responsibilities that I gladly accept,” Richie answered as he began burping his baby girl.
PERSONAL LOG, Commander Jaimie Petrelli, Stardate 54150: We are returning to Starbase 42 after spending the past week on Earth. Ensign Collins has shown a great deal of maturity in the past few months, and I was happy to accompany her to her graduation ceremony.
“I swear, my parents honestly thought that you would be their age. How long have you been Baldwin's XO?”
“Almost two years,” Jaimie replied. “I was Baldwin's tactical officer for a nearly two years before that.”
“Still, I have to admit, I'm looking forward to returning to Baldwin. I know there's quite a bit of rewiring work left to do.”
“I seem to remember a young homesick cadet who had her teacher looking out for her.”
“Don't remind me,” Dorian answered. Before Jaimie could answer, the console beeped. “Commander, we have a distress call from the Abilene. She's having trouble with her systems, we're the closest vessel.”
“Let's check it out. Open a channel.”
“Open.”
“Abilene, Ninnescah. We have received your distress call and are moving in to render assistance.”
“Ninnescah, Abilene, we could use any assistance you could offer. Our warp core shut down unexpectedly and we are unable to to get it restarted.”
“We're on our way,” Jaimie replied. “Ninnescah out.”
“Commander,” Dorian noted, “Even with the uprated engine on board, Ninnescah won't be able to tow a starship much past warp 2. It's gonna be a long ride home.”
“So noted,” Jaimie replied.
An alarm blared as the Kennedy family was having breakfast. “I thought you had shut that damn proximity alarm off.”
“I tried. Apparently, it doesn't want to go on to 'quiet' mode,” Richie answered. “Although it doesn't seem to bother the little one.”
“Is it friend or foe?” Bridget inquired.
“It is a friend,” Richie answered. “It's Nimitz.” Richie proceeded to hail the ship.
“Hey, Rich,” Andrea answered as she appeared on the view screen.
“I understand it's your turn for having a birthday.”
“Guilty as charged,” Andrea answered.
“I'm surprised they haven't started court martial proceedings into the initial loss of the ship.”
“According to Sara, Starfleet suspects that the computer virus was an 'inside job.' She wants the 'loss of ship' proceedings combined with any prosecutions for creating the virus.”
“So, what brings you out here?”
“We're here to bring you back to Starbase 42.”
Roslyn was working in her quarters when the doorbell rang, “Come in.”
“Hello, commander,” Sara replied as she entered Roslyn's quarters. “Can i talk to you for a minute.”
“Sure, lieutenant,” Roslyn answered.
“We have a possible lead who's responsible for planting the virus. Starfleet intelligence reports that a band of mercenaries have been offering warships for sale to the highest bidder.”
“I've heard of decommissioned Starfleet vessels winding their way into the secondary market, but it would be a bold move for someone to steal an active vessel.” Roslyn pause for a moment before continuing. “I am assuming that you'd like for me to help you find out just who is responsible for creating the virus.”
“Is it that obvious?” Sara answered. “I talked to Bridget a while back about how she was 'created,' as it were, to be a spy for the Cardassians. You, personally, seem to have caught the attention of some of those higher up in Starfleet intelligence.”
“What, exactly, do the higher ups have in mind?”
“I don't quite understand it, Abilene's warp core seems to be set up properly,” Dorian commented, “It just doesn't want to run.”
“Consider all that has happened recently, She's gonna have to be taken to starbase for examination,” Jaimie answered. “I'll talk to the captain and let him know what's going on.”
“I take it you feel that Abilene have been compromised.”
“I wouldn't doubt it,” Jaimie stated as an alarm sounded. “Petrelli to Bridge, what's going on?”
“Auxiliary power to the antimatter containment field has failed. The system is showing containment failure in 15 minutes.”
“All right, let's not waste time,” the chief engineer stated. “Prepare to jettison the antimatter pods.” Abilene's engineering crew worked diligently to eject the antimatter pods. However, it was clear that there was something wrong. “Engineering to bridge. We can't get the antimatter pods to eject.”
“All right then,” the captain answered as he motioned for the abandon ship klaxons. “Attention all hands: abandon ship. please report to the nearest escape pod. This is not a drill. Antimatter containment failure is anticipated in 10 minutes.”
“Petrelli to Ninnescah, emergency transport.” Escape pods quickly detached from Abilene's hull, along with various shuttlecraft. Jaimie patched the runabout into the starship's navigational controls. “This is commander Jaimie Petrelli. I am steering Abilene out of the way to ensure everyone's safety.” As Abilene pulled away, the escape pods and shuttles gathered around Ninnescah.
“Captain, we're receiving a message from Starbase 42,” Lindsay stated.
“I'll take it on screen,” Andrea answered. “I'm sure Richie here would like to know what's going on.”
“Captain,”Admiral Dillon stated, “I'm afraid I'm going to have to divert you temporarily. We received a distress call from Commander Petrelli. It seems that the starship Abilene reported problems with her warp drive. It apparently escalated to an antimatter containment scare and abandoned ship. Ninnescah is guarding the escape pods.”
“It's going to be a little stuffy in here, but I think we can squeeze them in,” Richie commented.
“We're on our way,” Andrea continued. “Helm, lay in a course for the Ninnescah.”
“Course laid in.”
“Engage.”
CAPTAIN'S LOG, Stardate 54150.9: Nimitz has returned to Starbase 42 with the crew of the Abilene. The apparent loss of the Abilene is troubling, as it has become clear that someone is secretly trying to hijack a starship.
Richie was walking down the hall with his trusted legal adviser. “You're saying that Abilene's captain personally brought himself before Admiral Dillon for court martial.”
“I tried to talk him out of it, but I couldn't. He wants the proceedings to occur without delay.”
“Have we figured out who was behind the virus?”
“No, but I've got Roslyn on it. Intelligence set her up with a background as a down on her luck freelance computer programmer. Scuttlebutt from intelligence indicates that they are in demand.”
“I've shown her a few things about computers. I'm sure she'll be able to handle it. So, are you doing anything this evening?”
“I don't have anything planned, why?”Ninnescah
“I'm planning on reviving an old tradition: poker night.”
“Sounds interesting. Count me in.”
The young woman walked up to the table. “Hello,”
One of the men turned around to notice her. “Well, hello, pretty lady. What can I do for you?”
“You could tell me how much is the buy-in. I see you have an open spot at the table.”
Thinking that this woman was dead money, the man decided to invite her in. “If you have, say, two bars of latinum, you can have the seat.”
“Cash me in,” the woman replied, handing him three bars.
“Here's 6,000 in chips for the lady.”
“Call me Daisy,” the woman replied.
“What kind of a name is that?”
“My parents were botanists, they had a thing for earth flowers,” Daisy replied coolly. “Now, are you going to deal or not.”
“If you insist,” the dealer stated. “The name of the game's no-limit hold'em. Small blind is 10, big blind is 20 slips.”
“We start the pot by having the player to the dealer's left put in the small blind of 2 chips, the next player puts in a big blind of 4,” Richie stated. “Is everyone familiar with 'hold'em' poker?”
All of the participants nodded their heads. “So, Rich,” Sara inquired as Richie dealt the hole cards. “I'm curious, has adventure always sought you, or did it wait until you became captain of Baldwin?”
“As a matter of fact,” Richie replied, “I got into trouble during our little skirmish with the Klingons a little over 4 years ago.”
“I'm interested in hearing this story,” Bridget answered.
“Well, I was put in charge of an EVAC mission to a outpost near the Klingon border. The mission was to move everyone off the planet. Unfortunately, the Klingons decided to run a cavalry raid. They managed to destroy or make unflyable all of the shuttles. They also managed to damage the Kitty Hawk's transporter. It took about two hours to repair the transporter. Meanwhile, I had to calm down the civilians. One of them had a little five month old girl. Needless to say, she was in a crying fit. She knew that everything wasn't all right.”
“Let me guess,” Sara stated, “you sang to the little girl to calm her. I'll check.”
“Guilty has charged,” Richie replied. “Once Kitty Hawk was able to repair the transporter, we beamed everyone up four at a time. The Klingons made a second pass at us just as the last of us was to beam out. I was transported just as Kitty Hawk raised her shields. It was one of the most harrowing beam-outs I've gone through.” Richie proceeded to discard a hand before presenting three cards face-up. “On the flop we have a ten, five, and seven off-suit. I see that Bridget, Donna, and Sara J. are still in this round.”
“I'll check,” Bridget answered.
“I'll open with 4,” Donna followed. “I remember mom mentioning that she engaged the Klingons once, but I was under the impression that you were already moved on to the Hastings XO spot.”
“No, but you're close,” Richie said. “Your mom had recommended me for the spot, but I didn't know about it. The EVAC was the last major mission before Starfleet gave the orders making me Hastings XO.”
“It certainly makes for an interesting story. I'll call.”
“Call,” Bridget finished the betting round as Richie prepare to deal another card.
“We have another ten on the turn.”
Bridget pondered for a moment before making the opening bet. “I'll open this time around with 8.”
“Call,” Donna replied.
“I'll raise to 16,” Sara finished.
“Call,” Bridget retorted.
“I'm out,” stated Donna. “I'll leave this pot between the two of you.”
“On the River,” Richie said as he prepared to reveal the final community card. “We have a deuce.”
“I'll open with 24,” Bridget stated.
“I raise to 32,” Sara answered.
“I'll call.”
“All right, we still have two players in the game. It's convention for the last person to raise to show their cards first.”
”I figured that this was a good hand for me,” Sara replied as she turned over a pair of aces.
“Bullets are usually a good hand to bet on. That gives you two pair, aces over tens,” Richie answered, “However, there is one hand better. Does Mrs. Kennedy have it?” Bridget laid down her cards. “Indeed, she has pocket 10s to make a four of a kind.”
“I'll raise to 260,” stated one of the players. The first round of betting had been completed, and there were three players left who did not fold their hands. The flop was a Ace-King-Nine.
“I'll call,” 'Daisy' replied.
“I'm out,” replied the final player.
The dealer turned over the turn card. It was another Ace. Daisy was the first to make a bet. “I am all in,” she stated as she pushed all of her chips in.
“Miss Daisy, you are either very bold or very stupid. I will call.” The player showed his hole cards, a pair of Kings.
“Kings full of aces, that's a very good hand.” Daisy observed, revealing her hole cards. “However, I do believe that four aces beats kings full.”
“So, what bring you to our table, besides a savvy for poker?”
“I'm here to do what everyone else wants to: make some latinum. I hear programmers are in demand.”
“I may be able to help you out, for a price.”
“How much are you wanting?”
“I believe I have just lost a couple bars of latinum. I'd like to get that latinum back.”
“Sir,” stated the subordinate, “I have found more information about the Ottawa. Aloran IV was Federation colony that was abandoned when Cardassia joined the Dominion. One of the former residents was the family of Captain Richie Kennedy of the USS Baldwin. According to our contact, they were on Aloran to celebrate his birthday.”
“In other words, Ottawa stumbled upon us.” the supervisor replied.
“That is correct, sir. Our contact in Starfleet was able to find us another ship. This time, she was a bit more subtle in implementing the pathogen. For all they know, the ship was the victim of an antimatter containment failure.”
“Very good. We have clients wanting working Federation designed ships. Anything else?”
“I met a young lady last night. She appears to be very savvy at computers.”
“If you think she's a good programmer, bring her in, but keep an eye on her. Starfleet is likely to be bringing in agents of their own.”
“Understood.”
“And, as for this Captain Kennedy. I have heard quite a bit about him. He is a potential threat to our objectives. See that some harm comes to him.”
Ensign Collins was paired up with Ensign Wellman and tasked with running a new ODN fiber down a corridor on Baldwin's deck 5. “I still think they syndicate is the most likely group to want to steal a starship.”
“I've also heard that the Satarrans are trying to get their hands on a Federation ship again.”
“Or,” Richie stated as he approached the pair in the hallway, “It could be all of the above.” He noticed that both subordinates were getting ready to stand at attention. “As you were.”
“I wasn't aware you were on inspection.”
“It is the Captain's prerogative to inspect how things are going. Are those the new gel packs for the war room.”
“Yes, Sir,” Wellman replied. “10 new Mark V bio-neural gel packs, per the design plans.”
“Sarah will be happy to hear about that,” Richie continued as the lights started to flicker. “I thought environmental controls were being handled by the dry dock. Kennedy to starbase ops: we've got a power fluctuation on Baldwin deck 5. Is there something wrong with the dry dock.”
“We're not doing anything that would affect Baldwin's dry dock. I'll go ahead and check.”
As soon as she checked the Dry dock controls, sparks flew across the ops panel. Richie heard the crackling. “Kennedy to transporter room, emergency beam-out.”
“Standby, Captain.”
“The dry dock system are failing,” Dorian noted. “We're losing life support.”
“Captain, this is transporter control. It seems that the whole system has been compromised. For some reason, we cannot get a lock.”
“Understood,” Richie answered. “Mr. Wellman, is Neosho still aboard?”
“Yes, sir, however, I doubt that the shuttle bay doors are functional.”
“Never mind that. I take it you're the only ones aboard.”
“Yes, sir. We were going for a early start.”
“All right, let's get to Neosho, stat.”
“What the hell is going on out there!” Jaimie exclaimed as she entered starbase ops.
“All of a sudden, we've got system malfunctions across the board.”
Admiral Dillon exited his office, “I want an investigation into these systems failures. Also, I want to speak to Captain Kennedy as soon as possible.”
“Admiral,” Jaimie replied as she approached Admiral Dillon. “Is there something I don't know about about.”
“I just received a flash from Starfleet Intelligence. Apparently, an open reward is being offered for the Captain's head.”
“Wasn't the captain aboard Baldwin?” Jaimie inquired.
“Yes, ma'am,” the officer replied. “Her dry dock just lost power. Transporter control has been compromised, we weren't able to beam him out.”
“Do we still have sensors.”
“Yes, ma'am.”
“Scan the area around Baldwin's dry dock”
“I'm detecting an anomaly. Commander, we have a ship decloaking.”
“On
screen.” The screen revealed a runabout dropping her cloak. “Open
a channel.” Jaimie paused while the communications officer opened
hailing frequencies. “Neosho, this is Commander Petrelli. Is
everyone all right.”
“Petrelli, Neosho. I'm glad to hear your voice number one,” Richie answered. “What in the hell is going on.”
“Scuttlebutt says there's quite a price for your head.”
“Needless to say, I'm probably going to need a little extra protection. Make any security measures you feel are necessary, and make sure Bridget and Tiana are covered.”
Roslyn entered the bar at 0900, as she had arranged. Her contact arrived soon after. “Well, miss Daisy, I see you are ready to go to work.”
“As ready as I'll ever be,” Roslyn replied to her contact.
“I witnessed for you in my boss's office, so if you screw up, we both will be terminated, likely with extreme prejudice.”
“Understood,” Roslyn answered.
“We have salvaged several Jem'Hadar attack ships. We have invested our latinum in equipping them with some of the basic 'creature comforts,' including putting an actual viewscreen on the bridge.”
“Sounds interesting.”
“I'm going to pair you with one of our best programmers. Something tells me the two of you would make a good match.”
Richie entered his quarters and quickly embraced his wife. “Hey, hon. How's the little one.”
“She's become a bit fussy. I've tried to put her to sleep, but I think she senses something is wrong.”
“I'll say,” Richie replied. “Admiral Dillon is ordering us sequestered on Aloran IV until further notice. Nimitz and Ottawa will take turns guarding the planet, and we won't be without company.”
“It seems you have a few friends in high places,” Bridget replied. “Now, do you think you can handle the simple matter of calming your daughter.”
“Let's see what I can do,” Richie answered as he reached for Tiana. He proceeded to sing “Here Comes the Sun,” and gently rocked his baby to sleep.
“What time do we leave?” Bridget whispered to Richie as he put the baby in the crib.
Roslyn and her contact entered a small office. “Issac, I'd like for you to meet someone.”
“I keep telling you, if I wanted a girl, I'm not going to pay you any latinum.”
“Who said I was one of his street girls,” Roslyn answered. “I'm in the computer programming business. My name's Daisy.”
“I'm not really interested in having a partner,” Issac answered. “But if you insist, I will pair up with Daisy.” As Issac turned around, Roslyn was shocked to see a familiar face. “Hello,” Issac stated as he faced his new partner.
“I'll let the two of you take some time to get to know each other, but I expect some progress on that test ship by the end of the day.
“Yes, sir,” Issac and 'Daisy' replied in unison.
As soon as the contact left, Issac turned to his new partner. “He's all right, but he's dabbled a bit in the prostitution racket. How did you meet him?”
“I took his latinum at the poker table.”
“He probably mistook you for dead money. Most of the girls he works with don't quite have it up here,” Issac continued, pointing at his head. “They're not exactly my type.”
“So, bring me up to speed on what you're doing.”
PERSONAL LOG, Lt. Commander Bridget Kennedy, Stardate 54155.2: Ottawa is returning our family to Aloran IV while Starfleet investigates who is responsible for attempting to murder Richie. Without knowing who we are up against, the best thing I can do know myself and my friends.
“Hey, Bridget,” Sara stated as she entered Ottawa's holodeck. “You wanted to see me.”
“Yeah,” Bridget replied. “I know you're part of the security arrangements for us. I just wanted you to make sure of one thing.”
“What's that?”
“Computer, begin exercise. Safeties on, difficulty to maximum.” A troop of Jem'Hadar solders appeared as Bridget began her exercises. She delivered a swift series of kicks, causing the Jem'Hadar to fly backward.
“Most impressive,” Sara answered as Bridget finished off the last Jem'Hadar. “I knew you had augmented strength, but I'd never seen you demonstrate it like this.”
“To put it mildly, I will do whatever it takes to protect my family.”
“Your loyalty is certainly noted,” Sara replied, “but somehow, I doubt that you will be subject to a direct attack.”
“Still, I'm not the vulnerable damsel in distress.”
“I seem to recall you taking a bullet for Rich,” Sara continued. “You're all the bodyguard that he'll need.”
“In any case,” Bridget said, “I think sending us to Aloran may not be the best solution.”
“How come?”
“If these mercenaries know anything about Rich, Aloran will be the first place to look, and perhaps the easiest to sabotage.”
“I suppose we ought to make sure that we have no surprises,” Sara answered as a holographic Jem'Hadar sneaked up on Bridget. Bridget delivered a soft kick to the solider, then snapped his back across her knee. “I see hell hath no fury like an augment scorned.”
“I am curious, have you heard anything from Roz?” Bridget asked.
“I did hear that she made contact with a possible operative.”
The manager over Issac and 'Daisy' entered the office of his supervisor. “Come in,” the Supervisor stated, “How is your new recruit?”
“She's doing better than expected. They've got the warbug's new viewscreen up and running.”
“Excellent,” the supervisor replied. “What is the latest on Mr. Kennedy.”
“He got away, and apparently Starfleet has bumped up security. Our contact believes that he is heading for Aloran IV aboard Ottawa.”
“Perhaps we should send a little surprise for Mr. Kennedy when he arrives.”
Issac and Roslyn were testing the new viewscreen on the warbug. “Sending test package to you now,” Roslyn stated. The retrofitted viewscreen began to display several test patterns.
“Very good,” Issac responded. “As much work as it took to refit this first ship, fitting others should be a piece of cake.”
“So, Issac, what can you tell me about yourself.”
“There's not much to say. You could say I shouldn't exist.”
“I wasn't exactly born in the traditional way either, so I'm even more curious.”
“I used to be the tactical officer aboard the Kitty Hawk during the Klingon engagement. I was put in charge of an EVAC mission to a outpost near the Klingon border at the same time as one of the Klingons famous cavalry raid. We had to beam everybody out with a freshly repaired transporter. I was supposed to be the last officer off, and therefore, I was transported just as Kitty Hawk raised her shields. It turned out that my transport beam appeared to be a little off kilter, and my transport beam bounced back to the surface.”
“Fascinating,” Roslyn replied, realizing that there was a reason his face looked familiar. “What happened next.”
“I kept in hiding for the next few months, making sure there weren't any Klingons on my tail. Eventually, the civilian population came back to the planet, and I managed to find work on the planet for a while before doing freelance work aboard a civilian freighter.”
“Why didn't you report back to Starfleet. Even if they had though you had perished in the accident, surely they would be relieved that you were still alive.”
“That's where it gets interesting,”Issac continued as he put on a headset. “Could I get a front view on the screen and on the headset.”
“Got it,” Roslyn answered. “Please continue.”
Issac took a good look through the headset before flipping the eyepiece up to look at the new screen. “It turns out that Kitty Hawk must have put two confinement beams on me.”
“And so, one made it back to the ship, the other bounced off the shields.”
“Exactly.”
“You also changed your name so that you wouldn't be confused with your twin.”
“If you want to get technical, I had a twin sister, so I'd be part of a set of triplets. In any case, you are correct.”
Richie sat down on the couch to read up on the rest of the news. Bridget had gone off to talk with Sara. If I've got some time to myself, Richie thought. His little girl, however, had another idea. “What’s wrong, Tiana,” he said as he picked up his daughter. He gently held the baby to his chest, securing her fragile head. As he rocked back and forth, he noticed that Tiana was smiling back. “So that's what you wanted. If only everything could be that simple.”
All the young baby girl could do was smile. Tiana had yet to learn about those who would do anybody harm. All she knew was, she had a mother and father that cared for her, and that she needed them as much as they needed her. As her father began to doze off, Tiana went back to sleep as well
In the midst of the calm moment, Bridget and Sara had opened the door and entered the quarters. Noticing that Richie and Tiana were asleep, Bridget quietly pulled out the ‘Chessie’ blanket and draped it across Richie’s chest and under the baby's head. Bridget gave her husband and daughter a quick peck on the cheek. “Sweet dreams,” she said to them as she exited her quarters.
“What do you mean, they’re not there yet.”
“I am in orbit of Aloran right now, sir,” a young lady stated to her manager. “There is no sign of activity.”
Before the manager could respond, his doorbell rang. “I’ll have to discuss this with you later, right now, I have other matters to attend to.” He quickly disengaged the conversation. “Enter,” he stated.
Issac entered the office “I’m sorry to bother you sir, but you wanted a report on the warbug.”
“Yes, Issac. How are you doing with the warbug.”
“We’ve begun refitting the rest of the warbugs. We should be done by the end of the day.”
“Very good. Anything else.”
“No, sir.”
“All right then. If you’ll excuse me, I have another meeting to attend to.”
“Of course,” Issac replied.
The manager walked over to his supervisor’s office. “Sir, it seems we have a little issue. Apparently, Ottawa did not go directly to Aloran.”
“Tell Rebbecca to hold her position. I’m sure Mr. Kennedy will be heading to Aloran soon. If not, I’m sure our agent at Starbase 42 will be able to come up with a little something. Get in touch with your contact at Starbase 42, just in case.”
“We’ve arrived at the last known location of the Abilene.”
“Thanks, Susan. Take us out of warp.”
Sara and Bridget exited the turbolift. “I take it we have arrived,” Sara stated.
“Yes,” Jenna replied. “Where’s Rich.”
“He’s napping with the little one,” Bridget answered. “Let’s take a look.”
The viewscreen activated to a view of empty space. “I think it’s pretty obvious that the Abilene did not suffer from a warp core breach,” Sara stated. “Needless to day, I think we should scan for warp trails
“I agree,” Jenna replied. “Sonya, make it so.”
“Jen,” Bridget inquired, “Any chance we could see a map of the area?”
“Sure,” Jenna answered, “what are you thinking?”
“It wouldn’t make sense for Abilene to be taken long distances across Federation space.”
“I agree,” Jenna replied. “Let’s see where the nearest planets are.”
“So, how was your meeting?” Roslyn asked Issac.
“Very short,” Issac replied. “It seems that he had another meeting to attend to.”
“I would think that refitting and selling of a warship would make him a ton of latinum,” Roslyn replied. “What could be more important than that?”
“I’d bet he’s got something up his sleeve. It wouldn’t surprise me.”
“So why do you work for him?”
“I’m a freelancer,” Issac answered, “I look for what pays me the most latinum, as long as it’s not clearly illegal. Last time I checked, programming a ship’s OS is legal. I’ve spent the past five months perfecting the new system for this project. He wanted a system that resembled a Federation starship interface, and that’s exactly what I gave him.”
With the information that Isaac gave him, Roslyn figured that Issac did not write the virus, but that the virus was designed to overwrite the starship’s computer system, thereby rewriting the remote access protocols. Any starship with Issac’s OS would, in essence, be controlled by anyone who knew the new remote access code.
“How’s it going, ensign?” Jaimie asked Dorian as she was working on a fiber run to the war room.
“With any luck, Commander,” Dorian replied, “We will have the war room on line in 20 minutes. I heard Admiral Dillon has made getting Baldwin on line top priority.”
“Indeed he has.” Baldwin was designated as a systems testbed for new security measures in response to the recent virus. The war room was also one of the most valuable astrometic field-processing facilities in Starfleet. “I’m sure we can put Sarah to work right away. How soon can we have rest of the ship ready.”
“We’ll have warp power in 35 hours.”
“The most logical place for someone to hide Abilene, given the circumstances, would be in the Timor sector.” Sara stated. “It’s mostly uninhabited, save for a Pergium mine operated by the Ferengi.
“How far is it at maximum warp?” Bridget inquired.
“3 days.”
“I think dropping in there will raise too many questions at this time,” Jenna stated. “We should forward this to Starfleet intelligence. Meanwhile, Susan, could you set a course for Aloran, warp 8.5.”
As Ottawa’s bridge crew followed her captain’s orders, Sara turned toward Bridget. “So, what’s your next move.”
“I figure Tiana’s going to be awake right about now, and she’ll be hungry. Besides, Richie could use his personal bodyguard, if you know what I mean.”
“Knowing your relationship with Rich, I wouldn’t expect anything less from you.”
Rebbecca monitored the sensors of her craft constantly, looking for signs of another ship. In her youth, she was considered the red-headed step-child, both literally and figuratively. She had spent 8 years in debt to a Orion Syndicate operative to get her off of Adigeon Prime. Unlike other women like her, she was not willing to become a “lady of the evening.” Her benefactor understood her objections, and instead shaped her into a femme fatale. Before leaving Adigeon, she had been given DNA resequencing treatments to increase her strength and agility, and began training for her life of assassination. Her latest target was a Starfleet captain with sufficient knowledge about computers.
Her single person craft was a lot like her, it was simple, yet elegant, and strong and agile in combat. Her current orders were to hold her position and be on the lookout for a Starfleet vessel. Rebbecca knew that her target was happily married, and wouldn’t fall for her ‘charms.’ Why, then, would they not go for a direct attack. Her position, however, was not to ask questions, but to follow orders should she want to receive her latinum.
Normally, the manager would not send messages to his operatives in Federation territory while Issac was testing the warbugs; however, this was an unusual circumstance. He created a text message to his mole. “Rebecca says Ottawa has not arrived at Aloran,” the message stated. “Find out where she went.” Hopefully, he thought, she would be able to find out what was happening without alerting suspicion.
“Why would there be a transmission into Federation territory,” Issac wondered as he monitored planetary traffic. “It seems that our boss is up to something.”
“What makes you say that?” Roslyn answered as he moved up next to Issac.
“Very few people in the sector care have reason for Starfleet to stick there noses here. Most are simply here to make latinum mining Pergium. They pull their 20 hours a week, and they get their money.”
“And no one asks questions?” Roslyn inquired.
“That’s right,” Issac answered as he read the text of the message. “Aloran. Why in the hell would someone be interested in Aloran?”
“Why do you say that?” Roslyn inquired, even though she knew exactly why.
“Aloran is on the Cardassian border. It’s unoccupied, and there aren’t much of the usual exploitable resources. I should know, my family lived on that colony.”
“You think your ‘brother’ is being marked somehow?,” Roslyn answered.
“Everything appears to point to it.”
“Issac, can you keep a secret.”
“Hey, hon.” Bridget said as she entered the guest quarters. “How was your little nap.”
“Very peaceful,” Richie answered as he kissed Bridget on the cheek. “Any news .”
“Jaimie reports that the war room is back online. Sara wishes she had access to it now, although the other Sarah says she’ll help any way she can.”
“You mentioned that you suggested that Jenna divert Ottawa from Aloran.”
“Yeah, we can confirm one thing. Abilene was not destroyed, and is likely in hostile hands.”
“That maneuverer probably confused the hell out of who ever was doing this. Might I make a suggestion.”
“Sure thing, Rich,” Bridget said as she picked up her daughter. “As soon as I’m done feeding the little one.”
“Hey, Sarah,” Jaimie stated as he Sarah beamed aboard Baldwin.
“I heard that my office has been upgraded.”
“The war room has got a full upgrade with bio-neural systems. I understand they’re looking at putting this technology on the new Luna-class project.”
Dorian joined Jaimie as Jaimie and Sarah walked toward the war room. “Commander, Lieutenant.”
“Ensign,” Sarah replied. “How have you been?”
“Very busy running cable. Thankfully, we should be ready to roll soon,” Dorian answered as they approached the doors to the war room.
Before opening the door to the war room, Jaimie pulled out her sidearm in anticipation of trouble. as they opened the doors, they noticed an unauthorized person in the room. “would you mind explaining why you are in here?” the XO asked.
“Since you are in here,” Sarah stated. “let's see what you've been up to.” Sarah preceded to examine the commands the intruder had entered into the console. “Commander, it appears that the intruder was looking for the location of Ottawa.”
“I have a feeling,” Jaimie replied, “I know why this person is looking for Ottawa. Ensign Collins, please take this intruder to the brig on the starbase for interrogation."
“Aye, commander,” Dorian replied. “If you could come with me, please .”
“Sarah, get in touch with Ottawa. Notify them that we have uncovered an intruder.”
Rebbecca lounged in her cockpit when she received a hail from her manager. Immediately, she answered the call. “How can I help you, sir?”
“Apparently, Ottawa is heading in our direction, according to the latest scuttlebutt. I like you to head our way and do not let anyone interfere with your mission.”
“Understood, I am on my way,” Rebbecca answered.
The Kennedy family was on the bridge as Ottawa's communications officer intercepted a transmission headed towards the Aloran system. “We've got confirmation, there's been a transmission to Aloran from hostile territory.”
“Thank you, lieutenant,” Richie stated as he turned to Ottawa's captain. “Jen, I think it's time to find out why are up against.”
“I agree,” Jenna replied. “Shields up, red alert. Set a course bearing 320 Mark 5. Engage at warp 8.”
“Aye, captain,” Susan answered the as she operated the flight control console. Ottawa curved gracefully to her left before engaging her warp engines, then instantly streaked away.
“Computer, estimated time of intercept?” Rebbecca asked her ships computer.
“5 minutes,” The computer answered.
“Show me the schematics for USS Ottawa.” Rebbecca quickly memorized the plans for the Prometheus-class starship, looking for any weakness in the ship that would allow her to complete her mission. Despite Ottawa being better armed than Rebbecca's craft, the highly skilled assassin was more then capable of overcoming those odds.
“Captain,” Susan stated, “We have a small craft approaching, Bearing 155 Mark 12.”
“On screen,” Jenna replied. The screen showed a sleek, silver craft.
The small ship began to fire phasers on Ottawa. At first, Rebbecca targeted the joints between the independent sections of Ottawa's hull.
“Shields down to 65 percent,” the tactical officer stated.
“Return fire,” Bernie responded.
“Captain,” Sonya said, “The bandit has targeted our internal docking mechanisms. Multi vector assault mode is off line.”
“The bandit appears to think that we would need to separate to suppress her. Let's prove her wrong.”
“You know, Roslyn,” Issac stated, “if it wasn't for the fact that you mentioned that you were Richie's sister in law, I would be all over you.”
“How so?” Roslyn answered.
“Well, for starters, you've got one of the best hourglass figures I have seen on a woman. You clearly know your stuff, especially since you elected to get yourself into this mess. I also think your personality is infectious.”
“Thank you,” Roslyn replied, flattered.
“Now, in other business, we've got a small fight on half a light year ahead of us. It appears that one of the ships involved is a federation ship, Prometheus-class. it appears that the smaller ship is holding her own.”
“That's probably the Ottawa,” Roslyn replied. “that's Jenna Carson's ship.”
“If you're right," Issac stated, “Ottawa is probably in the crosshairs. Moving in to intercept.”To
“It's all right, Tiana,” Richie said as he cradled his baby daughter. as he continued to sooth Tiana, he tapped on his combadge. “Bridget, where are you?"
“I am on deck five,” Bridget answered. “I'll be there in about two minutes."
“Understood," Richie replied, “but please, make it quick.”
On the bridge of Ottawa, Susan manned the flight controls in an attempt to out maneuver the small bandit, too little avail. “Captain,” she said, “we've got a week's spot in our shields on deck five.”
“Security teams to deck five, guest quarters,” Jenna quickly responded. “If an assassin wishes to confront captain Kennedy, I'm going to make every effort to insure that he or she fails.”
As Tiana calmed down, Richie put her back in her cradle. As soon as he let go of his baby girl, he was thrown hard into a bulkhead. Richie looked up and noticed an unfamiliar woman in his quarters. “I take it,” Richie answered wittingly, “you have been sent here to eliminate me.”
“You would be correct,” Rebbecca replied. “I think you'll find me more than a match for you.”
“Something tells me that you are an augment. I've got news for you,” Richie said as Bridget entered the room and tackled the intruder, “So is my wife.”
“She's a tough one,” Bridget commented, “however, I think I've got it under control.”
“Carson to Kennedy,” Jenna stated over the intercom. “A ship just dropped out of warp ahead of us. I think you ought to take a look at this.”
“Understood,” Richie said. “We've got one intruder contained. She's an augment, so I think Bridget needs to escort her to the brig to ensure she doesn't cause any more trouble.”
As soon as Richie arrived on the bridge, he was amazed at what he saw on the viewscreen. “Hello, Richie,” Isaac stated to a shocked Richie. “I guess I've got some explaining to do.”
“I'll bet,” Richie answered. “Hey, Roslyn, I see you've found a new friend. You missed my attempted assassination. I could have used and extra augment to take her down.”
“It seems that you have had quite an adventure,” Issac stated. “I think we need to get together and have a round table discussion, and to be honest, I would love to the your wife and daughter. By the way, you can call me Issac.”
Bridget entered the ready room, and was slightly shocked by what she saw. “Is it just me, or do I need to see Dr. Bratney?”
“yes, sis,” Roslyn replied, “you are seeing two 'Richies.'”
“I guess I would be the best to explain,” Issac answered, explaining how a transporter incident aboard the Kitty Hawk resulted in two transporter beams, one that returned to the ship, and the other returned to the planet.
“OK,”Bridget answered, “but just how do you fit into the to theft of Abilene?”
“Judging by what Richie and Jenna have told me so far,” Isaac replied, “The operating system I designed for Jem'Hadar warships has been turned into a worm that allows whoever spread this to have remote access to the infected ship's computer. I see that you have developed a mechanism to identify ships that have been infected.”
“I think,” Richie stated, “that at some point, your manager will start asking questions. I would suggest that you say you with us for the time being. Issac, this is my lovely wife, Bridget.”
“Hello,” Isaac said as he shook her hand, “Rich, you are one lucky man.”
“I'd say,” Roslyn commented, “Issac is a chronic flirt.”
“Seriously,” Isaac continued, “you are a very beautiful young woman. But I hear that the two of of you have a little girl. Any chance I could meet her?”
The manager rushed in to his supervisors office, “We have a major problem.”
“What is it?” the supervisor inquired.
“I've lost contact with both my contact aboard starbase 42 and the person I send out to eliminate Captain Kennedy. I have a feeling that, somehow, they have been caught by Starfleet.”
“That's not good,” the supervisor replied. “What happened to your employees.”
“I wanted them and of the way, so I gave them the day off.”
“Could either of them have been a Starfleet operative.”
“it is certainly possible; however, if it's Starfleet was indeed looking into our operation, they could have found our operative on the starbase independently, especially if she had made a wrong move. As for the woman I send out to eliminate the captain, it's very likely that she bit off more than she could chew against Ottawa.”
“I would suggest you find out what happened to your employees. If they were caught, or one of them was indeed a starfleet operative, they will almost surely be debriefed.”
“They do not know enough about our operation to compromise us,” commented the manager.
“Are you sure,” replied the supervisor. “You mentioned that they were computer programmers. Even though they do not know the details of our project, they probably have enough know how to give Starfleet a heads up on what we have been doing.”
“Understood.”
“So, this is my niece,” Issac commented as he picked up Tiana. “she is a very cute little baby girl.”
“I am glad you approve,” Richie replied.
“Bridge to captain Kennedy,” Bernie stated over the ship's intercom.
“This is Richie.”
“We've received a message from Starbase 42. Jaimie is reporting that they have captured an intruder. she is currently be interrogated buy starbase personnel.”
“What do we know about her?” Richie inquired.
“She is lieutenant Christine McNeil, she was apparently on the engineering crew of the Abilene.”
“Well, that does sound like there's probable cause to charge her with conspiracy. I bet our resident lawyer would love to interview her, however, I think we may have an opportunity to find our lost ship first. Let starbase control know we will return as soon as we can.”
“I would try to get there in a hurry. I know enough about the underground to know that they will try to destroy the evidence of their theft.”
“I agree,” Richie replied. “Do you have in the idea on where they avoid hide the starship.”
“There's a scrap yard a few light years from here. As I understand it, the operator does not ask questions.”
“All right then, that's where we will start looking,” Richie
answered as he took Tiana from his 'brother.'
Sara entered the Brig, escorted by Roslyn. “Hello,” she said to the prisoner, “I am lieutenant Sarah Jackson, judge advocate for the tenth squadron.”
“If you're here to asks me questions, you can't to the wrong place. I know enough about the legal system to know that I can keep quiet.”
“I know that attempted murder does carry a significant penalty, however, I am authorized to, as they say, cut a deal if you so choose.”
“What kind of a deal?”
“Well, for starters, it might help to know what is your name?”
“My name is Rebecca. As you probably have figured out, my former sponsors have genetically enhanced me four strength and agility. Apparently, they didn't realize that Captain Kennedy had a couple of augments in his pocket, not to mention in other places.”
“Can we keep that one off the record?” Roslyn asked Sara.
“I'm afraid not,” Sara replied. “She is, despite the poor explanation, technically correct.” she turned back to Rebecca, “I have known Richie and Bridget for a while now, in fact I was the one that encouraged Bridget to pursue a relationship with Richie . I can tell you that they are a very happy couple.”
“All I could tell you is that my manager had ordered me to exterminate Captain Kennedy while he was on Aloran IV.”
“So, what can you tell me about this manager of yours.”
Richie and Issac stood side to side on Ottawa's bridge. Many of the ship's crew had to remind themselves that there were two Kennedy brothers now. “How soon before we arrived at the shipyard Issac mentioned?”
“45 seconds,” Susan replied. “Beginning sensor sweep for Abilene now.”
Ottawa jumped out of warp in front of multiple junked ships, including many casualties of incursions with the Cardassians, the Borg, and the Dominion. “Captain, I found a ship that doesn't appear to be as dead as the others. It's a federation starship, Saber-class.” Sonya paused before continuing her report, “I have confirmed the registry, it is Abilene.”
“Proceed to the location of Abilene. Prepare an away team, we could use some engineers to make sure that ship is safe for independent flight. Otherwise, we'll have to tow her back to starbase.”
“We are being hailed,” Bernie noted.
“That's probably the yardmaster,” Issac noted. “He's probably wondering why a federation warship is out here.”
“Open a channel,” Jenna noted. “This is captain Jenna Carson of the USS Ottawa. We have reason to believe you have something that belongs to us. If you don't mind, we would like to claim of our ship.”
“While you are talking with the yardmaster,” Issac noted, “I am going down to the brig.”
“You know, if I'd have know your wife was an augment, I would have brought a little more firepower.”
“I think you have me confused with someone else,” Issac answered. “I believe we were working for the same person.”
“If that's the case, how come I'm in the brig?”
“I work in computer programming. You, on the other hand, are the muscle.”
“It was either an enforcer or a lady of the night, and personally, I've never found prostitution very palletable. However, all I know is that I was ordered to eliminate Captain Kennedy. Nothing more and nothing less.”
“He didn't explain why?”
“My business in not one where I ask too many questions. You, of all people, should know that. I've told that Lawyer all that I know.”
“Are you sure that this ship is ready to go?” the supervisor asked.
“My employees indicated that the ships have passed their inspection. Even if they were with Starfleet, I would doubt they would say anything to compromise our safety.”
“Well, we'll have to see how your ships do in combat. The yardmaster just told me that Ottawa is in the yard.”
“Understood,” the manager replied. “I've already gathered enough people to operate the ships. We're ready to launch.”
“Tell them that their orders are to destroy Ottawa.”
“Yes, sir.”
“Captain,” Sonya stated, “we have incoming warbugs.”
“Tactical alert,” Bernie stated, “all hands, battle stations.”
“Raise shields,” Jenna continued. “I'll fathom a guess that they don't plan on taking prisoners. Rich, I think we can handle things up here. Go take care of that baby.” Richie nodded in agreement as he headed for the turbolift. After Richie left the bridge, Jenna continued her inquires “What's our tactical status.”
“Our shields are good, phasers are fully operational. However, our docking clamps are still fused. We cannot use the multi-vector assult mode.” Five warbugs swarmed up to Ottawa, targeting the warp engines and weapons. Ottawa weaved and dodged as much firepower as he could. The numbers, however, were too much for her. “Sonya, any chance you could take out some of those warbugs?”
“I'm on it,” Sonya replied. Ottawa's phasers lit up upon the advancing warbugs. Most of the firepower was concentrated on a single bug that had been advancing upon the warship. It took several shots to take the one ship out of action. Meanwhile, the remaining ships were able to take on Ottawa. “It's not preety,” Sonya commented, “shields are down to 40%.”
Jenna stood up, out of the captain’s chair. “How close are we to Abilene.”
“We’re within transporter range... that is, if we were able to transport.”
“Carson to Jackson: Sara, can you meet me in the brig. I’d like to cut a deal with our prisoner.”
Jenna entered the Brig with Sara in tow. “Issac, how quickly do you think you can get Abilene up and running.”
“Considering the intent of my former boss... I doubt it would take that long.”
“In that case, we need Abilene in the fight as soon as possible, we cannot run this show alone. And as for you, Rebbecca, in exchange for helping us by going with him, we’ll be more than happy to reduce your sentence.”
“I’d much rather face a federation prison than what my boss would have in mind for me. Count me in. My vessel is equipped with a Dominion based transporter... it should be able to punch through what’s left of your shields.”
“All right, then. Get over there ASAP.”
Issac and Rebbecca beamed onto the Abilene’s bridge. “I don’t understand,” Rebbecca noted, “why anyone would be interested in stealing a federation starship. There are ships out there with more firepower.”
“I have a feeling that someone wanted to undergo ‘false flag’ operations.”
“What do you mean ‘false flag?’”
“It basically means someone wants to believe that a federation is responsible for an attack when in reality it is someone else.”
“I see,” Rebbecca answered. “Engaging main power.” As main power was restored on the ship, Rebecca turned to more of a personal matter. “So, Issac, I’m just curious. How come you came down to visit me in the brig?”
“I didn’t have much else to do, and somehow, I felt that under that cover of being a hired gun, there’s a lovely woman that’s never had the chance to shine.”
“Somehow, I find that a little naïve, but a sweet gesture none the less.”
“Shields are down to 16 percent,” Sonya stated. “We’re still swarmed 4 to 1.”
“Even if we were able to separate now, I wouldn’t recommend it,” Bernie commented.
“Evasive maneuvers, pattern Delta-3,” Jenna replied.
Ottawa tilted back and forth while evading the firepower of the warbugs. Ottawa held her own; however, it was clear that the enemy had the upper hand. Abilene came up from behind to join the fight, scoring hits on the rear of the enemy ships. “Ottawa, Abilene. We have limited phaser power; however, I think we can handle a 4-on-2 fast break.”
Ottawa looped to the right, drawing only two warbugs. The remaining two ships slowed down and allowed Abilene to overtake them. The ships proceeded to lay down fire across the Starfleet ships, while Abilene and Ottawa returned fire.
“Captain,” Sonya noted as she plotted tactical maneuvers. “I think we can get those bugs in the sights of our torpedo launchers.”
Jenna did not hesitate to respond. “By all means, fire QTs.” The Quantum Torpedoes emerged from Ottawa’s hull. A direct hit was scored on both vessels.
Meanwhile, Issac and Rebbecca worked on the other two vessels with Abilene’s phasers. “Issac,” Rebbecca noted, “Abilene does have have a few torpedoes of her own.”
“Don’t be afraid to use them,” Issac replied has he entered commands on the flight control panel.
Rebbecca quickly moved to the tactical panel as the ship continued to shake. Having significant experience in combat, she knew what needed to be done without guidance. She entered the commands on the panel and watched the targeting monitor for her chance. As soon as she acquired a target, she pressed the fire button. Two photon torpedoes launched from Abilene’s tubes, scoring a direct hit on their target. “I’d say we’re good. Opening a channel to Ottawa.”
“Abilene, Ottawa. How’s she holding up?” Jenna responded to Rebbecca’s hail. Ottawa herself was clearly war-wounded but more than capable of making it home.
“Not too bad,” Issac answered, smiling. Issac glanced over the engineering status monitors before continuing. “It looks like we’ve got enough antimatter to limp this girl back to Starbase 42.”
Rebbecca elected to take this opportunity to make a short statement. “As for me, I present myself for arrest.”
“Your willingness to assist us is admirable, and will be noted at sentencing. We will be waiting for you in our transporter room.
Jaimie entered the doorway of Admiral Dillon’s office. “You wanted to see me, sir.”
Admiral Dillon went straight to the point. “I’ve received a report from Ottawa, they have recovered Abilene and are coming home. I also understand that you have have captured a attempted saboteur.”
Jaimie did not hesitate with her response. “Yes, sir,” she replied emphatically. “She’s invoked her Directive 101 right to remain silent and has formally requested defense council.”
“What charges do we have her on?”
“She’s currently charged with unauthorized use of Starfleet equipment, and we are holding her on suspicion of attempted murder.”
The admiral briefly pondered Jaimie’s words. He figured that the prisoner knew what she was doing, and was likely responsible for all of their trouble, at least from the Starfleet point of view. “I would suggest that Sara get a warrant to search her quarters, both here and aboard Abilene, and possibly find out who she’s working for, and possibly why.”
“I’ll let her know when Ottawa gets in,” Jaimie replied.
Sarah stood in the starbase promenade when the announcement came on over the public address system “Shuttlecraft now arriving at airlock 35.”
Sarah approached the airlock and watched as the doors open and the passengers exited the craft. “Hey, Laura,” she said as she embraced her best friend.
“I heard that there’s been quite a bit of action going on around here.”
“We’ve got a suspect in the brig. Ottawa is on the way back here. What have you been up to?”
“I spent some time on Risa soaking up the sun. I also tried my hand on my special abilities.”
“You didn’t spook anyone, did you?”
“No,” Laura answered as they continued through the starbase hallway. “I also hear that Tiana is doing well.”
“She’s definitely had an adventure with her parents, and she’s only a couple of months old. She’s as beautiful as ever.”
“So, when are we going to be ready to fly again?”
“Baldwin is ready and waiting. We’re just awaiting for the captain’s return.”
CAPTAIN’S LOG, Stardate 54163.4: We have returned to Starbase 42, with Baldwin ready to return to service for the first time in over two months.
“We’ve searched Miss McNeal’s
quarters on the Starbase and aboard Abilene,” Admiral Dillon stated
during the
briefing. “She’s been in contact with Issac’s employer. She was given the code for the virus that has hampered our ships.”
As the Admiral took a sip from a glass of water, Richie continued to take notes. “Between Issac and Rebecca, we’ve found out that this person has never disclosed his name to any of them. We suspect that this person is not working alone. At this point, however, with our inside suspect in custody, our focus should be on preventing a future outbreak.”
A three-star admiral grilled Richie with a question, “What about the girl that attempted to assassinate you aboard Ottawa?”
Richie had a quick answer, “I feel that she could become a potential asset against organized criminal activity. Sara offered her a deal, and I support her one hundred percent. Any more questions?”
Seeing no further questions, Admiral Dillon stood up to dismiss the meeting. “You’re all free to go.” As the members of the meeting dispersed, Richie came up privately to the Admiral. “I understand that Baldwin has been assigned on a three-month exploration mission.”
“That is correct.”
“Considering what I’ve been up against for the past several months, I’d like to see if I can stretch that out a little more.”
“If you think that Baldwin can be out in the field more than three months, you’re welcome to extend the cruise. However, It is likely that we’ll need you again.”
Richie entered Baldwin’s bridge to find his crew awaiting him. He moved to his captain’s chair and pressed a button to activate the public address system. “For the past few months, this family has been sidetracked. Our technology had been exploited, stolen, and retaken. What those who opposed us forgot is that we had a determination to maintain a just society. Now that the family is back together, it is time to look forward. Our new mission is the one many of you signed up for. We are to chart and explore beyond the far end of Cardassian space. Helm, plot course, warp 8.”
“Aye, sir,” Laura quipped as she began entering commands on her computer terminal.
“Now, all we need is a little ‘Breakaway Music.’ Compuer, why don’t we go with ‘Hell’s Bells.’
Richie smiled as the gonging bell and guitars of the 20th Century rockers filled the ship as Baldwin slowly left its drydock, passed the starbase and the other ships, and, once clear of the facility, streaked away for parts unknown.