War Council

The main briefing room was just as Kheren had left it when he resigned from his command; a semi-circular room with panoramic transparencies looking at the vast galactic starfield, beyond the huge pair of nacelles of the kilometer-long starship. The only flat wall was a replicator and a huge viewing screen where was usually displayed the galactic chart of the Federation, updated in real time by stellar cartography.

In between was a large classical triangular meeting table of centuries past, the old triangular monitor now replaced by a holoemitter at it's center. There were three chairs on each side, colored gold, red and blue as per department designations. Kheren remembered having it especially made for the ship, as he had done with his first command. He favored it for it's conviviality instead of the hierarchical straight table usually found on Starfleet vessels.

With so many captains and lower ranking officers all having now to come to important decisions together, he found it more appropriate than ever.

Redding was already in the center red seat, facing the huge screen where intelligence data from Starfleet was also pouring in. Kheren's tactical eye immediately spotted the deployement of the fleet aiming at several borders; the Organian Peace Treaty Zone shared with the Klingons; the former Neutral Zone of the now decimated Romulan Star Empire; the edge between the Alpha and Gamma quadrants; the territorial borders of the Cardassian territory, the Ferengi Alliance, the Gorn Hegemony, the Tholian Assembly...

The Andorian sat in the center seat on the gold side, his four oculars also riveted on the display. A glance with Redding told him that they were thinking the same thing.

It was not a happy thought.

The Vulcan too sat calmly in the conference room as the remaining key participants filed in and sat on designated sides of the triangular table. His focus drifted away from the display and the implications it conveyed.

“A gem cannot be polished without friction, nor an association like Starfleet be perfected without trials,” Syntron began as he glanced among those surrounding him. “Indications are that sabotage and ulterior motives have infiltrated the core and top levels of the Federation. There are innumerable methods by which this may have been initiated and proliferated without overt detection or remedy. The question begs, how will a minute collection of officers sitting in this room contain the damage already escalating while striving to restore the principles of Starfleet that have been compromised without destroying it in the process?”

Kheren glanced at Syntron, his antennae curving slightly in amusement, even if his tone was most serious.

''As another Vulcan once said; each according to his gifts.''

Redding for a moment showed his trademark smirk. But he too spoke with firm seriousness.

''And we are not alone; Fleet Captain Samji, Rear Admiral Kotari, Admiral Redding at Starbase Lotus; Admiral Nova, Admiral Athos, Admiral Janeway, at Starfleet Command; Ambassador Worf, Ambassador Picard, Ambassador Odo at the Federation Council. Many Starfleet officers across the Federation are also going against the tide; like the Vulcans who all suddenly requested their long-accumulated leave to distance themselves from current illogical events; like the Andorians, even as aggressive as they are but who typically will not fight without a good reason; like the Bajorans, the Cardassians and the Ferengis balking at being dragged into such a conflict.''

Kheren pointed at the tactical display on the screen.

''Maybe that's just it; fracturing the Federation. And it's working. Look at Starfleet's deployment. It's spreading thin all across the quadrant; the perfect opportunity for an external enemy to strike. But, no need for  any invader. It already strikes at the very core of the ideal of the Federation; our unity. it's already splitting us all, and not only in the sole military sense.''

“Divide and conquer,” Syntron concurred, almost in a whisper, as he brought his attention once again to the digital representations illuminated across the elongated display. “Perhaps part of our mission will be countering this effect by uniting the shattered factions,” he stated with predictable composure.

Redding shook his head.

''That would take too much time and play right into their hands; divide us too across the whole quadrant. We must find the source; and strike right at it. And quickly.''

Kheren glanced at him, antennae wobbling.

''Even if that source is Starfleet Command itself? Or the Federation Council?''

The flagship captain looked square in his silvery eyes; than at all the others.

''If need be.''

He looked again at the others.

''So, we are back into Federation Space. The Horizon will have to report to Starbase Lotus about chasing you renegade people. How should we proceed? The Alsea is now a hunted ship, without it's captain, and no one is expecting the return of the Achilles. All undermanned. We could make ourselves a crazy task force and think of tackling things in space some way, but we would be short of two ships...''

Kheren lifted a finger and both antennae.

''One; I intend to find us another... with the help of Ensign Tessa and a small crew. ''

''Tessa? But she is only a hologram.''

''Which can by herself provide automation for a starship. Which I will need.''

Redding mused for a moment then nodded.

''Alright; so you intend get yourself a starship somehow to add to this rebel alliance. What about you Syntron? Rogers? Sorripto? Any such crazy ideas? ''

“I can handle the Alsea by myself.” Sorripto responded.

Sorripto had spent much of their travel time working on the integrated targeting systems he designed.

“With the integrated targeting system, and the automated controls, from the tactical station aboard the alpha section I can control the Alsea remotely even in multi vector mode.”

“Three tactical ships each with a coordinated control and integrated targeting will do nicely in a pinch. It will also give us a piece or two to sacrifice if need be, without losing anyone.”.

Looking over at Rogers Sorripto continued.

“That would leave the Achilles.”

David, being the engineer he was, had stayed out of the tactical and political side of the conversation since having taken a seat across from Kheren. But with the Andorian's mention of Tessa, he decided to chime in.

"Sirs, I can mostly handle the Achille's as long as I have a holographic officer as well."

With a slight pause while he looked directly at Kheren across the table, Rogers continued.

"In that regard, I brought one along. But I will require a little assistance retrieving the Admiral from his current predicament."

Turning to face Syntron, David continued.

"If Captain Syntron could assist in retrieving his program from my shuttle computer that is."

David summed up; "I have no idea how to differentiate him from... that other guy," David finished.

Syntron nodded affirmatively as he responded.

“Delving deep into the programming data there would likely be a three point five percent probability of differentiation within the code sequence to isolate the Admiral from the former treacherous adversary. But nevertheless, it would be a calculated risk.”

The Vulcan shifted his attention from the engineer toward the Human commanding their operation.

“Given our current circumstances, the benefits of adding another experienced officer into our undermanned task force outweigh the risk involved, especially if we severely limit the capabilities of the program once reactivated.”

Redding smirked. But his eyes remained like ice.

''Commander Sangliar will be transfered to the Achilles. He's been badgering me since he came out of stasis and saw that antique of yours. Said something about perfect Klingon and Federation tech merging under Tellarite excellence. Bet he's again studying the specs as we speak. That should free you to command the destroyer, Commander Rogers, and me from a rain of insults from here to Starbase Lotus.''

He looked a while more at Syntron, then at Sorripto, before frowning.

''And now we have Captain Jureth out of commission. Doctor Nasaro-Myth is assuring me his physical body can be maintained healthy indefinitely. but that means that, until somehow we get his mind back, we are short of a commanding officer. Captain Syntron, you...''

''Bridge to Captain!''

''Yes bridge.''

Both Kheren and Redding answered at the same time. The Andorian's antennae drooped a bit but then curved inward.

''Not too soon will I leave you to your ship and get mine, Captain Redding.''

They exchanged a nod before the big man spoke aloud again.

''Report bridge.''

''Sir, there is a ship approaching. Came out of warp ten billion kilometers forward and now coming to us on a parallel trajectory at full impulse.''

''What do you make of it?''

''It's... a freighter, Sir. Ptolemy class.''

“Someone still flies one of those?” Sorripto quipped.

They all exchanged looks before Redding frowned.

''Ptolemy class? They were taken out of service well over a century ago!''

''Yes Sir; but the power signature is definitely not... antique. It matches current Starfleet specs. One moment, Sir...''

Redding was already up ans about to exit the room as some background inaudible conversation came from the wall speakers. Then the officer's voice came back.

''Sir, we're being hailed, Captain. Requesting permission to beam aboard, one person.''

Redding stopped in his tracks.

''Denied! Tell them we have transporter difficulties. Get closer and implement subspace radio blackout! No communication must escape this area!  And who is this person? Why this meeting?''

There was a pause, almost sounding like a gasp, before the voice came back, strangely subdued.

''Sir... Captain, they say they will accept a shuttle from Horizon to pick up... Sir, they say they are here to meet with... Captain Syntron. It's... they say it's... Earth's ambassador to Vulcan; Ambassador Jean-Luc Picard. ''

A raised brow along with an uncharacteristic look of astonishment momentarily flashed across the expression of the Vulcan until it was swiftly replaced with a stoic veneer. He stood up from the triangular meeting table and tugged down on his uniform.

“Permission to meet with our arriving guest?” Syntron queried calmly to the commanding officer of the flagship.

Redding too was taken aback. He gave orders for a shuttlecraft to rendezvous with the vessel and bring back one, and only one, passenger. Then he looked straight at the tall Vulcan.

''Granted, Captain Syntron; under General Order 13. ''

With a slight nod, Syntron exited the conference room and headed toward the location where the incoming shuttle would dock. From right outside the briefing room, the giantess Andorian Tyvya locked step with him, phaser belted, walking in front of him.

With each step he strived to analyze the unexpected shift in circumstances.

The Vulcan entered the nearest turbolift then vocally commanded its destination. As the lift glided, he continued to ponder why the Admiral was here, at this point in time and location. And equally perplexing, why did he wish to meet with him?

Syntron had studied various aspects of Admiral Picard’s service to Starfleet as captain of the Stargazer, Enterprise D, Enterprise E, and beyond. Throughout his illustrious career, Picard was a distinguished Starfleet officer, archaeologist, writer, historian, diplomat, and a philanthropist among other talents, interests, and accomplishments. What role would he be fulfilling now?

The doors to the lift swooshed apart and the Vulcan continued his sojourn. Moments later he arrived to where the shuttle was docking. He felt the vibrations as the small vehicle was clasped into the docking port. He positioned himself in front of the portal and awaited its opening.

Tyvya deactivated the seal once pressurization was completed, then stepped first into the vast hangar deck, signalling with her blue-skinned hand for Syntron to stay at the entrance while she went to the shuttlecraft. She was straight before the hatch as it opened, hand deceptively resting casually on her weapon. Her eyes and antennae scanned for signs, sounds, even smells and bioelectrical auras that could prove alarming, then allowed the single occupant to disembark.

A bald, pale but dignified aged human came back with her, wearing a plain blue suit of formal civilian cut. But there was no mistaking his face, known throughout the galaxy, nor the deepness of his surprisingly soft voice as he raised his hand in the Vulcan salute.

''Peace and Long Life, Captain Syntron.''

Despite his steadfast stoicism, he was somehow affected by the presence, gesture and greeting of the renown Admiral standing before him. He recentered his stance as he returned the greeting.

“Peace and long life, Admiral.”

The man smiled and raised a hand.

''Ambassador if you please, Captain. I'm retired now. I chose to devote my last years in more... quiet types of exploration. or so I thought.We seem to have come upons... interesting times.''

As his Vulcan salute shifted to a directional gesture, Syntron noted.

“We were in the midst of a meeting in the conference room Admiral upon the arrival of the freighter. We also have a secure room available to conduct our discussion in private if you prefer.”

''It is true I came most specifically for you, Captain. But I think everyone should hear what I have to say; and me all you all have to say. Please lead the way.''

Escorted by the Andorian giantess, who managed not to oogle too much the celebrated human, they swiftly went back to the main briefing room. Everyone stood up when they saw them enter. With a polite nod to each of them, he went straight for Redding, hand extended.

''A pleasure to make the acquaintance of the Lotus Fleet flagship commander, Captain Redding. I did have the pleasure to meet your admiral... counterpart a few years back. I see the same fire in your eyes and the same but fresher stone in your features.''

Redding made a good show of keeping his composed demeanor.

''Your legend precedes you, Ambassador.''

Picard then looked around.

''And yours is in full swing, gentlemen. So, what tall tales do you have to share?''

Kheren was the first to speak.

''I resigned my commission, assaulted and detained a Starfleet officer, sabotaged two ships and stole another, made unauthorized contact with an unknown intruder, used unsanctioned military action and stolen ordnance to destroy alien technology, participated in an open revolt against Starfleet orders and the edicts of the Federation Council. And now I plan to war on them both. By my estimate, I should spend the rest of the century and half of the next on a penal colony; preferably Klingon Rura Penthe, not Earth's Australia.''

Picard almost laughed.

''So you want it easy Captain Kheren? A nice frozen moon instead of a hot desert continent... ''

Sorripto laughed and then chimed in himself.

“I went rogue and disobeyed direct orders to out a traitor, save the grandson of the Emissary from an evil cult hell bent on destroying the universe, and then outed and, pretty much single handedly, dismantled Section 31. While serving my sentence working at the Mars facility, I developed a network of underground contacts and skills which came in handy when I returned to full duty only to throw that away by stealing a transwarp drive, hijacking the security network of a starbase and configuring the targeting systems of a couple of pirated ships we are going to use to go to war with the Federation itself.”

Sorripto smiled.

“No Australia here. After this, I imagine they will just shoot me.”

The smile of the legendary Starfleet officer turned towards him.

''Ah you must be Sorripto, the infamous Cardassian of Starfleet. There are indeed talks in the Council about applying such parts of the Cardassian judiciary system; maybe because of you, Lieutenant Commander. But may cooler heads prevail, starting with all of us. '

His smile vanished as he looked at him then at all the others in turn as he spoke.

'' But at this stage, we may wonder if, truly, Section 31 has been dismantled.''

David chose at that moment to stand and greet Picard.

"Ambassador, I won't bore you with my, shall I say, somewhat colorful past. But if your suspicion is correct, then I think that, if these are remnants of Section 31, they are acting like Orion Syndicate pirates, with a fair measure of good old-fashioned Romulan subterfuge thrown in for good measure."

Rogers took a few steps away from his chair toward the nearby window and then stopped, turned to face Picard again and concluded.

"Just my slip of Latinum worth Sir."

Picard nodded towards him.

''Oh a bit more than that, Commander. You have voiced my own concerns quite well. What is happening threatens the very fabric of the Federation. For all it's lack of morality and condemnable ways, Section 31 was fanatically devoted to preserve the Federation. And what is happening, that's not it. Quite the opposite.''

He looked at all of them then frowned.

''Isn't Captain Jureth Oseno among you? ''

Kheren's antennae drooped and his voice lowered.

''Captain Jureth felt victim to a transporter booby trap coming aboard. His body rests stable in sickbay. But his mind... ''

The Ambassador's eyes went wide. Then his brow furrowed and his voice too lowered.

'' This might be a vital clue to this whole situation, Captain. I would ask for all the data you have about this... accident.''

Redding prersented a PADD to Picard.

''This is our complete report, Ambassador;  since the initial cadet cruise of the Alsea up to our present return from the outer edge of the galaxy.''

''Thank you, Captain. This will complete what Rear Admiral Kotari and Fleet Captain Samji told us; those who still cling to the ideals of the Federation. We might be able to find something from the inside; and hopefully do something. But we need outside action. At worst, as a distraction to whoever or whatever is responsible for all this. At best, as a second attack prong against what they are doing. That, is all of you, gentlemen.''

He went to the replicator.

''Tea, Earl Gray, Hot.''

“I’ll have to try it hot.” Sorripto said while drinking the Bajoran iced tea never far from his hands.

Once the fuming cup materialized in the slot, he then took a side seat on the red side of the triangular table then sipped at it while looking at the wide display on the screen.

''So, what are you space pirates planning to do?''

Redding sat with him in the center red seat.

''First, we need to form an effective task force. With the Horizon as a capital ship and the Polaris, her integrated escort, we now have the Alsea, itself as much a heavy battle cruiser as three destroyers; and the Achilles, a siege heavy destroyer.''

Kheren sat in the center gold seat at their left.

''And I am going to get one more; the Lotus.''

The old ambassador raised an eyebrow over the rim of his cup in a very Vulcan manner.

''The Lotus? Captain Kheren, you are well aware the Lotus is now almost relegated to the status of a museum ship. No crew, no supplies, not even reactants for it's warp assembly or raw matter for it's armor...''

The Andorian's antennae pointed straight at him.

''Which means it will be the least guarded ship in the farthest starbase of the Federation. I served long aboard her before I got my first command. We have the industrial replicators of the Horizon to refurbish her. Here are the most talented and experienced experts in starship automation this side of the galactic center. And she has been equipped with the Emergency Holographic Officer system like all Lotus Fleet ships. I will be able to handle her with a handful of officers and cadets.''

Picard nodded absently.

''Bold, Captain Kheren; and difficult, Lotus status notwithstanding. Since the... unexpected departure of the Alsea, and the frenzy war-footing accross Starfleet, security has been... let's say upgraded across the board. Just to come to you, I had to pretend even to the Vulcan Council that I went to a solitary meditation retreat on the Plateau of Gol... and use old... roguish connections to get this... museum piece and an illegal cloaking device from Romulan acquaintances, just to find you.''

''And how did you find us, Ambassador? ''

Picard smiled at the Andorian.

''I made a friend a short while back at the Daystrom Institute, with top access to state-of-the-art sensor technology. She is very good at questioning the decisions of Starfleet... and calculating probabilities. She has yet to report an Omega Particle detonation at the outer edge of the Milky Way. ''

He put his cup on the table, his brief smile gone.

''You will need a major diversion to have any hope of success, Captain Kheren. And one more ship brought to our cause will not be superfluous; or two.''

He then looked straight at Syntron.

''How about getting you back on the Phoenix, Captain Syntron? ''

Syntron studied the elderly statesman for a moment before responding.

“It was my understanding that, as a consequence of my resignation, the Phoenix had been reassigned to another commanding officer. How would such a transition even be possible.''

''Well for one thing, Starfleet is short of experienced commanding officers, and by more than just the two of you. Also. the Phoenix is a deep space explorer with complex, state-of-the-art tech and massive firepower; not a vessel you give to novice captains who lost sleep after the Kobayashi Maru scenario. Especially not out here, at the frontier of Romulan territory, Klingon space, access to the Delta Quadrant and in striking distance of Cardassian and Ferengi space. All this, Rear Admiral Kotari and Fleet Captain Samji forcefully pointed out to the Admiralty.''

Picard sighed through his nose before continuing.

''The Vulcan representatives also showed their... puzzlement at seeing the best and only Vulcan commanding officer of Starfleet resigning, followed by a sudden leave of absence taken by all Vulcans serving in the fleet. And of the current policies of the Federation Council. There are... talks behind closed doors; of secession, by the Andorians; and Vulcans are not voicing opposition. But they did propose for a gesture of goodwill to... appease tensions; like reinstating a prominent Vulcan officer to command, as a voice of logic and reason in troubled times.''

He looked again at Syntron, a small smile creeping on his deceptively soft features.

''Of course, Both Rear Admiral Kotari and Fleet Captain Samji welcomed the idea; and a recall order of Vulcan officers to fill up the Phoenix met no... objection; nor from Starfleet, which agrees to drop all charges pending... if you take command, Captain.''

Kheren antennae perked up.

''And what about me?''

Picard's smile widened. But there was no joy or humor in it.

''Seems Andoria and the resigned Andorian officers of Starfleet are in the same position regarding you, Captain Kheren. But not Starfleet. They seem to mind that you actually started this whole mess with your resignation; and then this... rebellion didn't endear you to them... any of you.''

The Andorian looked at Sorripto, antennae slightly incurved.

''I guess ''mind'' is the key word here.''

Sorripto nodded with a slight grin at his Andorian friend.

Stoically, Syntron stepped forward as his arms folded deliberately behind his back.

“You may inform Starfleet that I will agree to resume command of the Phoenix provided that a similar reinstatement is presented to Captain Kheren. In addition, all charges they are building or fabricating against him must similarly be dismissed.”

Picard sighed.

''Your regard for your fellow officer is commendable, Captain Syntron. But you have Vulcan behind you to apply pressure on Starfleet and the Federation Council. Unfortunately, despite the solidarity of his fellow Andorian officers, regardless of his illustrious career, Captain Kheren doesn't have that benefit from Andoria.''

Kheren nodded, not surprised at all.

''Because of who, or rather what I am.''

Redding frowned at him.

''That is?''

''An abomination.''

He allowed the puzzled look of the others to simmer a bit before explaining in an almost monotone voice.

''I am a genetic mutant, artificially conceived by an outlawed movement; to break the four-gender paradigm that is bringing our species to extinction. Official support of me could plunge our people into civil war over our very identity as a species. Andoria can not get involved with my fate.''

His antennae curved inward as he did one of the very rare human expressions his rigid face could convey; he winked at Syntron.

''Get your ship back, my friend. Don't worry, I'll get mine too.''

As he eyes met those of his Andorian counterpart, his deep breath was as close to a sigh as any Vulcan could fare. He then shifted his gaze to the aged ambassador.

“Given Captain Kheren’s resolve and circumstances, I will accept the decision to retake command of the USS Phoenix. However, I cannot abide him burdening the liability for all that has transpired.”

“You can always blame it all on me.” Sorripto chimed in.

His tone was as serious and unimpassioned as his expression.

“When I initially found the sabotage code aboard the Cadet ship there were markers in the code which I have used before. Like the ones in my sensor algorithm updates. Those were adopted fleet wide, but practically no one would know what to look for.”.

Taking another sip of tea Sorripto continued.

“Whoever planted that code did so in such a way as to frame me. The once punished super spy with a knack for disobeying the rules. I served my incarceration on work release and flew back through the ranks when I was reinstated. Starfleet knows my value, but some higher ups continue to treat me like some Cardassian boogieman.”

Gesturing to Syntron and Kheren Sorripto sat back a bit resigned to his fate.

“It would not take much for the narrative to place the blame on me. I mean I have committed violence against Starfleet personnel and manipulated data and events to turn some against each other. Granted they were traitors, but you must ask yourselves the obvious. Is it truly a stretch to point the finger at me? Of everyone in this room I am the best equipped, skilled, and connected to live life as a criminal on the run.”

He locked eyes with the Ambassador.

“If you want to go back to the fleet with as small a dark cloud as possible then you blame me.”

Picard pinched his lower lip.

''I hate to say this, but using this as a smokescreen might just make all this easier.''

The old officer pointed his finger at him.

''But I will make this officially on the record. When the time comes, this lie will be exposed and your true valor will be made known. On my honor as a former Starfleet officer.''

He then looked at Kheren.

''So, you have a plan to get the Lotus, Captain?''

''Affirmative, Ambassador; and it will not go on the record. No one here is immune to a mind probe; except me. I will not even tell my small team until the last moment, when it will be too late to stop us.''

Picard nodded then looked at the others.

  Rogers returned to the table and sat back in the seat next to his compatriot Sorripto, with but a slight shudder at seeing the cold cup of Bajoran tea nearby and glanced around the triangular meeting table. He himself had only one problem to solve before this motley crew got underway. With that problem in mind, David broached the subject to the assembly.

"Ambassador. Records show that you once enabled a holographic entity into a completely autonomous computerized reality. All I require to complete the Achilles' automation in order to make her a truly one-man ship, is the retrieval of one of two programs I have stored on the Ligyron below decks."

David continued, looking toward Syntron.

"My problem is I need to differentiate between two identical programs of two holographic people, one of which we absolutely do not want to release."

Glancing across to Kheren with a slight shrug, David offered a slight apology. "Sorry Captain, I couldn't bring myself to destroy our Admiral."

The Andorian nodded.

''In this instance, I much prefer your approach to mine, Commander Rogers. I think like a soldier; I end problems in the most expedient way. You think like an engineer; you solve problems. You have my respect.''

Again addressing Picard Rogers summed up.

"I wonder if you had any insight as to differentiate between two holo programs and be able to tell which one, if any, was ... well, evil or good? I have and can operate the Achilles as she is, but this holo officer would be a large boost in the coming mission."

Picard offered him a sheepish smile.

" I'm afraid Commander that it has been all the work of then Commander Data and Lieutenant Barclay. But what they did is all in Starfleet records. According to your... own record, you should be able to retrieve the data with little difficulty. ''

He finished his tea then stood up.

''Captain Syntron, I beleive your expertise will be useful to Commander Rogers. But please act with alacrity. The Horizon will be detected soon enough, and she will have to return to report her... mission success; and bring you back.''

He turned towards the others.

''As for you all gentlemen; I guess a rogue warship and a former captain escaping with hostages in a shuttle will be your cover story for the Horizon. I will work to... insinuate corroboration from my end. And of course, the Achilles does not exist... But let's make haste. We don't know how long the dream of the Federation can endure such... circumstances.''