From: sks1@Ra.MsState.Edu (Sujay Shaunak)
Subject: Repost : DELPHI 3
Organization: Mississippi State University
Date: Thu, 17 Dec 1992 05:34:46 GMT


 
DELPHI : Chapter 3 

"Trials" 
 

 
 
	Commander V'hozen stood before his personal message 
station, preparing to receive a high priority message from 
Romulan High Command. He entered his personal access code 
and waited. A momentary pause ensued as his transmission was decoded. 
 
	V'hozen looked at the picture of the high command chamber. 
It was a dimly lit octagonal room, with walls shrouded in shadows. 
From his memory, he placed the appropriate wall murals on each wall. 
His mind lingered on his favorite, the spectacular lava falls of 
Romulus. The high command chamber had always been shrouded in secrecy 
and mystery, these murals were an attribute to that, as there had never 
been record of their creation. From nowhere visible on his screen, a 
voice began to speak. 
 
	"Commander V'hozen. We have reports that the Federation is 
deploying a new starship class along the neutral zone. The first 
ship of this new class is already near the neutral zone. You 
shall evaluate the effectiveness of this vessel, it is called, the 
Delphi. IF it remains in service long enough and is deemed a hindrance, 
you may have to deal with it. 
	You shall proceed at top stealth speed towards the Delphi. 
We would not want it to get in the way of our new strategic initiative 
in that sector.... All data on the ship will soon be in your vessel's 
computers. You shall confirm our information and provide additional data. 
We must know what type of hindrance this may cause in our greater goal. 
	For the empire ...." 
 
	The image of the High Command chamber faded from his viewscreen. 
 
	V'hozen paused a moment, and then returned to his bridge. 
 
	"Engage cloaking device, new course ......." 
 
	In the inky blackness of space, the  Zha'sa wavered and 
disappeared, on its way towards the neutral zone ... 
 
 
...... 
 
 
	"Mr. Penthrach, inform Dr. Mayak that she may begin taking 
on her additional medical supplies. Inform the crew that we will not 
have any shore leave here, since we haven't been in space THAT long, 
and since we don't plan on staying here too long." 
 
	Malory took another quick glance at his Captain's console. 
The Delphi had just completed docking procedures. Malory noted that 
Security Chief Meede had already positioned security officers in 
appropriate positions and was running security checks on all 
equipment being brought on board. 
 
	"Captain, Admiral Hrgon wishes to speak with you, he is on a 
secure channel." 
 
	Malory turned to the voice of his communications officer. 
	'A SECURE CHANNEL AT STARBASE ...' 
 
	"Right. Mr. Penthrach, I'll take it in my ready-room. 
	 Mr. Assali you have the bridge, Ms. T'irna, our Oracle 2 
operator should be reporting soon, see that he gets adjusted with dispatch." 
 
	Malory rose and walked into his ready room. 
 
	His private view-screen held the face of Admiral Hrgon. 
 
	Malory looked at the Admiral's countenance. Hrgon was a Tellarian, 
and, as such, was shorter and stouter than the typical human. His nose 
was almost pig-like, with a slight upturning, and bushy grey-white 
eyebrows rimmed his dark eyes. A similarly groomed goatee adorned the 
lower half of his face. Malory wondered at the necessity of having a 
secure channel at a Starbase. 
 
	"Captain Malory," the low and 'gargly' voice started, 
"You shall come aboard the Starbase. We have many plans to 
discuss. I will inform you about current strategic priorities. 
Our meetings will be of highest security protocol. You will be 
engaged for the rest of the day. Report to the Briefing Room Cygni. 
	Hrgon out." 
 
	Malory stared at the monitor blankly after the view faded. 
	"Good day to you too sir", he mumbled, shaking his head. 
 
	'MEETINGS FOR HOURS ..... UGH ...... STILL, A VERY 
NECESSARY HAZARD. HRGON WAS ONE OF THE FIRST NON-HUMANS TO REACH 
THE RANK OF REAR-ADMIRAL. 
	AT LEAST HE WORKED HIS WAY UP THROUGH THE RANKS, RATHER THAN 
SOME BUTTON-PUSHER. 
 
	HE SEEMED AWFULLY ANTSE THOUGH. I HAD BETTER KEEP SECURITY UP.' 
 
	Malory rubbed his face. He sat on the edge of his table and 
used his communicator. 
 
	"Mr. Penthrach, please send in  Cmmdr Assali." 
 
	"Yes sir." 
 
	A moment later, Assali entered. 
 
	*vhoosh* the door closed behind him. 
 
	"Yes Captain ?" 
 
	"Mr. Assali, you will be in command of the ship for the better 
part of the day. I will be meeting with Admiral Hrgon and will be 
unavailable for contact. I surmised from my conversation with him, that 
the admiral is overly concerned about security at present. 
	Keep a sharp eye out." 
 
	"Yes sir." 
 
	"Dismissed." 
 
	Malory left his ready room and went to his room. After 
looking at his chessboards for a moment, Malory grabbed his Personal 
Access Display Device (PADD), straightened his uniform and exited. 
 
	At transporter room 1, Malory met Garin Meede. 
 
	"Lt. I'll be departing ship for the starbase, Commander Assali 
is in command for the moment. Inform him as soon as our new Oracle 2 
operator arrives. How is your 'other' work coming ?" 
 
	"It is coming along well sir, The Commander and I should have 
the project completed within a day or so. 
	As far as this stop goes sir, I will be continuing security 
screenings of all incoming equipment and personnel." 
 
	"Very good. " 
 
	Malory's eyebrows furrowed for an instant in thought. 
 
	"..And Lieutenant, why don't you run your personnel through some 
drills, simulating conditions as if we were at a port with unknown 
loyalties. 
	I won't belabor details, you know well what that entails." 
 
	"Yes sir, the drills will do them good." 
 
	Malory watched as Meede walked around to the transporter 
console. 
 
	"Engage." 
 
 
..... 
 
	Ensign Zalvosta sat at her post in Ship's security. She 
received the communication from Chief Meede. 
 
	"Ensign, inform all security personnel that we will be 
at amber security status. All of you should know what that means 
and what measures to take. 
	Meede out." 
 
	The Ensign didn't pause to wonder, even though she was tired of 
all of the drills, she knew that any hesitation would be noted somehow 
by Chief Meede, whether he was present or not !! She relayed the message 
to all active security personnel. 
	Next, she began her work. At condition Amber, she was to monitor 
all communications between the ship and the exterior universe. She 
stretched her arms, and gazed at her console. She sat at attention since
Meere was already known for 'dropping in' to observe security personnel,
particularly those who were in his security core, and Zalvosta qualified 
as one of these 'priveleged few'. 
 
...... 
 
 
	Malory materialized on a transporter pad on the Starbase, where 
he was promptly met by a young lady. Malory gazed at the green-eyed, 
blond haired beauty, a slight smile playing on his lips. 
 
	"Captain Malory I presume ? I am Commander Elayne Hause. 
Follow me, the admiral has been expecting you." 
 
	Malory followed (he would have probably been tempted to follow 
her anyway), as they walked through the corridors of the Starbase until 
they came before Briefing room Cygni. By the end of the walk, he 
had come to the conclusion that the uniform did not quite do the 
Commander justice.
 
	Malory waited as a retina scan was performed, and then he entered. 
 
	Admiral Hrgon was seated, looking out from a large 'window'. 
A small clear goblet was in his left hand, a darkish red substance 
was contained therein. He appeared to be calmly staring out of the
viewport. 

        Malory was able to glance out the viewport as well, his ship was what
lay beyond. He gazed at it, the smooth rounded saucer section held
just a trace of ellipticity. Four 'struts' held the single warp nacelle
below the ship. The struts were angled compared to the hull and
consequently, the nacelle 'head'  was almost a quarter-way underneath
the ship, while the rear extended well out from below the saucer.

 
	The Admiral turned and faced Malory.

	"Captain Malory, good. We have much to discuss ...." he said, 
with a slight swirl of his goblet. 
 
...... 
 
	In the rec room of the Delphi, Assali and Meede jogged around a 
semi-circular track. They had been at it for almost an hour, as part 
of their "off hour" while on duty. As they were finishing their 42nd lap, a 
yeoman sprinted up to them. 
	"Sir !! Sir !!, Mr. Penthrach has something for you. He 
said it was urgent." 
 
	Assali angled away from the track and sprinted to the nearest 
comm panel. Meanwhile, Meede began to divest himself from his special suit. 
It was not standard issue, and applied constant pressure to him, thus 
helping to simulate the environment of his homeworld, and keeping his 
muscles in condition for that environment. 
 
	"Assali here. Report Mr. Penthrach." 
 
	"Penthrach here sir. Yesterday, a cargo ship sent 
out a distress call in the Antillian asteroid belt. Another ship responded. 
Neither ship has been heard from since. It is feared that both ships 
may have been damaged in the asteroid belt. StarFleet wants to begin 
a search immediately." 
 
	Assali thought for a moment, a rivulet of sweat ran down his 
forehead. 
 
	"Mr. Penthrach, inform all personnel that we will be joining the 
search. As soon as possible, have Mr. Qhasmon set course for the asteroid 
belt. Speed.... Warp 6. I will be on the bridge shortly." 
 
	Assali turned and faced Meede. 
 
	"Lt. prepare your security teams, we may need to do some EVA. 
Join me on the bridge as soon as you are able." 
 
 
	Yeoman Bronsdale was the 'fortunate' one as Meede barked 
out a series of orders and then promptly left. Bronsdale relayed the 
orders to the other members of the security team. Meanwhile, he 
and Yeoman Albert went to the transporter room and began donning 
the the large, bulky EVA outfits. 
 
 
.... 
 
 
	*vhoosh* 
 
	First Officer Assali stepped out of the turbo-lift and onto the 
bridge. He was somewhat surprised that Lt. Meede was already there, in a 
clean uniform, at the tactical station. Assali also quickly noted that there 
was now a figure seated at the Oracle 2 operator position. 
	Assali looked closer as he walked down the ramp to take up 
the Captain's chair. The figure almost leapt from the position. 
 
	"Lt. Will O'bourne reporting for duty sir !" 
 
	Assali looked over the red-haired figure. He had a slightly 
high and cracked voice, and stood about 5'8" in height. Assali caught 
the hint of light freckles. He also noted from the uniform that O'bourne 
was a junior grade lieutenant. 
 
	"Very well Lt. Now Resume your position. 
	 Lt. T'irna, have long range sweeps with ORACLE turned up anything 
yet ?" 
 
	"No sir. While the asteroid belt does have large concentrations 
of various metals and such, I am scanning no active subspace fields. 
We are still out of range for a detailed analysis." 
 
	"Mr. Qhasmon, how long until we reach the co-ordinates?" 
 
	"At present speed, 15 minutes." 
 
	Assali eased back into the Captain's chair, beads of sweat 
lined his forehead. 
 
	"Mr. Penthrach, are any other vessels responding ?" 
 
	"Yes sir, there was a nebulae-class vessel en route to the starbase 
which will arrive at the co-ordinates about 5 minutes after us. The ship is 
the ... Saracen. Captain Tziyn Orgl commanding." 
 
	"Good." 
 
	"Sir, I have something. Scanning the asteroid belt, I have 
4 large duranium concentrations....No discernible power signatures yet 
though." 
 
	Assali thought for a moment and smiled. 
 
	"Let me see a tactical....." 
 
	Assali looked at the formation. There were two large signatures 
in a central location. In roughly the same plane, the 2 signatures were 
flanked by two other signatures. 
 
	"Mr. Penthrach, send a coded message to Captain Orgl, inform 
him of the duranium concentration locations. Tell him to follow us closely 
in our wake." 
 
	"Sir, actually, it is a she, but I will relay the message." 
 
	"Go to Yellow Alert. 
	 Mr. Meede, prepare to raise shields to full and energize phasers. 
	 Mr. Qhasmon, how fast can we navigate through the belt ?" 
 
	 Qhasmon answered,"according to regulation, 1/4 impulse is 
recommended. Looking at the layout though, I would think that one half 
impulse should have a low risk of damage. If need be, I believe that I can 
maneuver at 3/4 impulse." 
 
	Lt. T'irna also spoke,"Sir, now that we are out of warp and in this 
proximity, full scans with ORACLE, show the sizes of the vessels. The central
vessels are definitely the cargo ships. The other vessels ... I am getting 
minimal power readings from those two, apparently, they are simply 
'powered down' for the moment. They are not Federation..... " 
 
	Assali looked at the display. 
	"You're right, they're Ferengi." Assali whirled, "Mr. O'bourne, 
look up the typical sensor wavelengths of Ferengi passive and active 
sensors, then, use ORACLE to broadcast a shifted wavelength 
to match theirs..." 
 
	The young Lt. 's fingers moved furiously and frantically. 
He ran his hands through his hair and continued. His brow furrowed
with concentration, tiny beads of sweat appeared on his forehead.
 
	"Y-yes sir, we have ORACLE broadcasting the phase shifted 
sensor waves." 
 
 
	"Good job. Mr. Meede, raise shields to full status, arm all phasers. 
	 Mr. Penthrach, inform the Saracen that there are two Ferengi ships. 
They seem to be assuming an ambush posture. Let the Captain know that the
Ferengi seem to be unaware of our presence. You needn't mention ORACLE
however. We will take the one at 45 mark 10, have the Saracen get the other.

	Go to Red Alert. 
 
	Mr. O'bourne, keep our sensor umbrella up. 
	Helm, take us to the 45 mark 10. one half impulse. 
	Mr. Penthrach, hail the Ferengi vessel, inform them to remain 
AS IS, inquire as to their intents. 
	Mr. Meede, target their engines and shield generators." 
 
	"Sir, Ferengi vessel powering up, not answering hails." Olgin 
Penthrach was glancing from his panel to the main viewscreen. 
 
        Assali wiped sweat from his forehead.

	"Mr. Meede, fire." 
 
	Meede smiled as he saw that he was in position to fire all 
four phaser banks. 4 beams of light erupted from the Delphi, striking 
the Ferengi vessel, before it could fully energize its shields. Both the 
forward and rear shield generators were knocked out, as well as the 
warp drive. There appeared to be minimal other damage. 
 
	"Good shooting Mr. Meede. Mr. Penthrach, inform the vessel to prepare 
for surrender. Mr. Meede have boarding parties ready." 
 
	Qhasmon quickly spoke. 
 
	"They are trying to engage their impulse drive, they are 
attempting to flee at 1/2 impulse." 
 
	"Pursue them, re-aquire optimum phaser range, as fast as you can 
Mr. Qhasmon." 
 
	"Yes sir, 3/4 impulse confirmed." 
 
	Penthrach gaped and looked at Qhasmon and the viewscreen. 
 
	"At the speed we'll surely hit an asteroid ...." 
 
	A snarl escaped Qhasmon's lips and he glared at Penthrach 
for an instant. 
 

 
 
	*K-PLOW* 
 

 
 
	A brilliant flash of light illuminated the forward viewscreen, 
the Delphi lurched under the shock wave of energy and particles. 
 
	X'anfrey Qhasmon looked at his displays, he angled the ship slightly 
so that it would take less of the brunt of the blast. His sensors informed 
him that the Ferengi vessel apparently collided with an asteroid. The 
Delphi's shields had received only minor damage. 
 
 
	Qhasmon faced Penthrach, eyes ablaze, his voice a controlled 
hiss. 
 
	"IF you are ever so foolish again I will ......." 
 
	"Sirs." Garin Meede stood between the two positions. 
 
	Qhasmon looked at Meede, Meede stared back. 

	Tension mounted. 

	Qhasmon thought that he saw a flicker of recognition in Meede's eyes. 
Qhasmon eased down. 
 
	"Commander Assali", Qhasmon resumed, voice returning to its typical 
level, "shall we rendez-vous with the Saracen ?" 
 
	Assali looked at his read-outs. 
	"Lt. T'irna, O'bourne, is ORACLE picking up any signs of life.... 
Is there any chance that any of them could have survived ? " 
 
	"No sir ORACLE reports no life forms." T'irna replied in a 
level voice. 
 
	Assali noted that O'bourne was still gaping at the viewscreen. 
O'bourne shook his head and began to look at his displays again. 
 
	"Yes. Mr. Qhasmon, one quarter impulse. 
	 Mr. Penthrach, any report from the Saracen ?" 
 
	Penthrach listened to his ear-piece. 
 
	"Yes sir, evidently, the Ferengi had hostages and jettisoned them. 
The Saracen stopped to pick up the hostages before their minimal life 
support ran out. Apparently, the other ship 'got away'. 
	Sir, Mr. Korn requests a communication." 
 
	Assali sighed. 
	"Put him on." 
 
	"Captain ... Am I to believe that we were traveling faster 
than one quarter impulse IN AN ASTEROID FIELD !!! Regulations clearly 
state that ..." 
 
	"Mr. Korn, the Captain is at the Starbase, this is  
Assali. I am *WELL* informed on the regulations. Regulations also say that 
the commanding officer of a vessel may be somewhat flexible depending 
upon the situation." 
 
	"Well .... Hmph .... You're lucky that our shields held during 
that explosion ....." 
 
	"Mr. Korn, one of the main purposes of shields is to protect us 
from explosions such as that. I would hate to think that we trust our 
equipment that may be faulty. Now, if you have no more complaints..... 
Good, Assali out." 
 
	Assali felt that he had one a major victory. 
 
	"Sir." Helmsman Qhasmon spoke. 
	"We are at station with the Saracen." 
 
	"Sir, ORACLE is confirming that their are no other ex-hostages 
still in space. We are only reading large amounts of scattered metallic 
debris. " Lt. T'irna added. 
 
	Assali looked on at the nebulae-class ship. 
 
	"Mr. Penthrach, hail the Saracen. Let's see if we can find out what 
this was all about." 
 
 
......... 
 
 
	"Captain. We are still rebuilding the fleet from the *IYOPIA* 
decision at Wolf-359. We can not afford to lose more at present. 
We now have few ships out here because of the lowered fleet strength. 
Here on the edge, near the Neutral Zone. 
	There are 4 ships to patrol the Neutral Zone Border now :  the 
Gallant, Delphi, Saracen, and, the Fangorn. The Saracen is en route. 
The Gallant is on patrol. You are being briefed so your ship may soon 
go on patrol. I will soon outline to you our defensive posture. 
	Do you have any questions before I begin in earnest ?" 
 
	"Yes Admiral. What style of ship is Fangorn ?" 
 
	"It is a dedicated battleship. Using a spare galaxy class frame, 
I had modifications made to the saucer. The basic frame was also changed. 
Similarly engine power was re-routed. Now, more power can be 
allocated to shields and weapons. Speed and longevity are lost. 
	The 'saucer' is angular to allow for some improved firing arcs. 
Actually, the 'saucer' is very triangular in shape. 
	As an aside, it mounts 5 forward photon launchers. It mounts 
2 rear-mounted. The main deflector was augmented. It can channel its 
energy as a weapon now. The ship has 7 phaser platforms. The Gallant
is a slightly modified Excelsior class ship, and the Saracen is a 
Nebulae.

	Malory watched as the Tellarian equivalent of a smile crossed 
the Admiral's face.  Malory was impressed with the arsenal of the 
Admiral's battleship, but thought that the number of ships on the border 
was dreadfully inadequate. 
 
	"My primary tactical officer is twittering to test out the ship 
in an actual battle. I think that the ship will serve more as a deterrent 
however." The Admiral huffed. 
 
	Malory simply nodded. 
 
	"Now Captain, in order to better assess our situation, I need 
to know about your ship. It's construction was kept very secret. 
While it was being built, all of my inquiries were 'forgotten'. 
I am under the impression, though, that it is a new destroyer-class. 
A few days ago, I contacted StarFleet Command again. They informed me 
that you would be able to brief me yourself. They didn't want to send out 
very much over subspace." 
 
 
	Malory thought for a moment. 
 
 
	"Well sir, actually the ship is on a slightly modified destroyer 
hull. The primary purpose of the ship is to work as a long-range detection 
vessel, a scout. I have limited armaments, consisting of only four phaser 
banks, with no photon torpedoes. As I understand it, the hopes for the 
vessel are that it will be able to detect cloaked ships. 
	Also, with my first officer, we have decided that we should be 
able to block other ships' sensors and scanners, and, in fact, be able 
to give their sensors some false information, depending on how much we 
know about their sensor system. 
	We have already implemented this. Although we have not been able 
to test it since that is the primary function of the duty station 
which was just now filled." 
 
	The admiral looked reflective, Malory eased back into the 
couch upon which he was seated. 
 
	"Hmmmm, I was more hoping for the firepower of a destroyer. 
BUT, if your ship can actually detect cloaked ships, then it will 
be invaluable to our defensive posture. 
	If I had realized that that was the purpose of the vessel, then 
I wouldn't have pushed for you to be its Captain. Out here, I choose 
which Captains are worthy. I know of your accomplishments while you were 
in command of the New Auckland. I decided that you were an excellent 
choice. One of the best destroyer Captains around. 
	I would doubt that subtlety becomes you ....." 
 
	Malory's eyes became hard. A slow smile formed on his lips. 
 
	"Well sir, we'll just have to find out then, won't we. You 
see, I think of it rather like chess ....." 
 
 

.............. 
 
 
 
	"Sir, Captain Orgl on line." 
 
	Twenty minutes had passed since the Saracen had picked up 
the hostages whom had been jettisoned by the Ferengi. Thankfully, 
the Ferengi had jettisoned them in small 'survival bubbles'. Obviously, 
the Ferengi felt that this would delay pursuit ...... They were right. 
 
	Assali gazed at the viewscreen. 
 
	"Put her on." 
 
	Assali looked at the diminuitive face of Captain Orgl. She had 
small fierce eyes that had a slight slant. As well as short dark hair. 
 
	"Captain Orgl, I am Akimbe Assali, what have you been able 
to learn of the Ferengi's intent from the former hostages." 
 
	"Lt. Cmmdr, are you in Command of the Delphi ?" 
 
	Assali paused, it was conceivable, however unlikely, that the 
channel that he was on could be monitored. 
 
	"At present ... Yes. We joined the search as soon as it was 
announced." 
 
	Orgl nodded slightly, but kept a slightly puzzled expression. 
 
	"Very well, we have determined that the Ferengi felt like they 
had claim to the two cargo freighters since the freighters had carried 
some materials for the Ferengi before. When the crews of the vessels 
would not obey the Ferengi, the Ferengi managed to take over the 
ships." 
 
	"Surely even the Ferengi would not try something like that near 
a starbase with Federation ships nearby. Even the Ferengi are not that 
stupid." 
 
	"Agreed. There must have been some ulterior motive, undoubtedly 
profitable, for the Ferengi. Although, the the possible loss of two 
ships is an enormous risk, the profit must have been very grand to 
justify such an undertaking." 
 
	"Well Captain. There is no more that we can determine here. 
I will be taking the Delphi back to the starbase." 
 
	"Very well Lt. Cmmdr Assali. We will see that the freighters' 
crews are returned to their vessels and make sure that the vessels are 
still operational, before joining you at the Starbase. 
	Orgl out." 
 
	Assali glanced around the bridge. 
 
	"Stand down to yellow alert until we are well clear of the 
asteroid belt. 
	 Mr. Qhasmon, set a course for the Starbase, warp four. 
	 Lt. Meede, you may tell your security officers that they 
will not be needed now." 
 
	The Delphi cruised leisurely back to the starbase and the crew 
resumed normal operating duties. 
 
 
.......... 
 
 
	Akimbe Assali felt relaxed as he sat in the Captain's chair. 
He glanced at the chronometer. It was almost time for the 'night watch' 
to begin. The trip from the asteroid belt back to the Starbase was 
uneventful, as most trips were. He noted that the new ORACLE 2 operator 
seemed well-adjusted to his console. It went without thought that 
the others were familiar with their positions. 
	Assali rose and walked around the bridge. Even though the ship 
was at the Starbase, he felt that strict operating procedures should 
still be maintained. Especially since Captain Malory had told him to 
"Keep a sharp eye out". 
 
	Mr. Penthrach turned and faced Assali. 
	"Sir, The Captain has just transported aboard." 
 
	"Thank you Mr. Penthrach." 
 
	*vhoosh* 
 
	Garin Meede looked on as Captain Malory exited the turbo-lift 
and entered the bridge. Meede noted a slight tenseness around Malory's eyes, 
and while Meede had not worked with Malory before, he did not think that 
Malory was the sort to be nervous or worried easily. Still, there seemed 
to be a slight twinkle of expectation in Malory's eyes..... 
 
	"Good evening. I've heard that you did some good work at the 
asteroid belt. Good job." 
 
	Malory winked. 
 
	"Mr. Qhasmon if all is ready, then we will be departing the 
Starbase. Set course at 317 mark 18. Ahead warp factor 5. Lt. 
T'irna, have ORACLE set on maximum sweep." 
 
	Malory looked at the Oracle 2 position. 
 
	"You must be Lt....... " 
 
	"O'bourne sir ! Will O'bourne." 
 
	"Yes, Mr. O'bourne. I know that you've already had a busy day, 
but before you go off shift, load in all Romulan sensor wavelength data, 
have the computer run some small extrapolations in an attempt to determine 
current Romulan sensor capabilities. In the meantime, I suggest that 
everyone get some rest. We're going to have a busy day tomorrow. 
	Mr. Meede, Mr. Assali, in my ready room. 
	Begin nightwatch." 
 
	X'anfrey Qhasmon moved to the Captain's chair as several 
ensigns entered the bridge. Qhasmon glanced around, he saw that the 
young human Lt. was engaged in actively instructing one of the 
ensigns as he himself gained extra familiarity with the system. 
Aside from the Lt. and himself, however, all of the bridge crew was now 
replaced. 
 
	"Lt. Meede, Mr. Assali, how far along are your efforts on the 
conversion I requested." Malory leaned back in his chair in his 
ready-room. Assali sat in a chair facing the Captain, while Meede 
stood his ground and faced the Captain. 
 
	Meede waited a moment, after observing that Assali was 
'passing' this question to him. 
 
	"Sir, we have been working on the conversion sporadically. 
Most of the work is finished. I can stay through the night watch and 
finish it if you think it necessary." 
 
	Malory scratched his chin reflectively. 
 
	"Go ahead and finish it then, we may need it and I would hate 
to not have it in such a situation." 
 
	"Then you are expecting combat tomorrow sir ?" 
 
	Malory looked at his first officer and then at his security 
chief. 
 
	"There is a great potential for it Lt. I would like to be 
prepared should it occur." 
 
	"Sir, I'll help the Lt., that should expedite repairs." 
 
	"Very well, if you feel that it won't interfere with your 
abilities tomorrow, then proceed. I would like to have all the tricks 
I can up my sleeve. 
	Dismissed." 
 
	Assali and Meede exited. 
 
	Malory sat in his chair. He closed his eyes. 
 
	'HMMMM. GOOD FIGURE ........ 
	WHAT, HELM BRING US ABOUT. FIRE PHOTONS, 30 DEGREE SPREAD  ....... 
	  "STAR FLEET HAS SEEN FIT, TO GIVE YOU A SHIP OF YOUR OWN ......." 
	  "......A SHIP OF YOUR OWN ........" ' 
 
	  Malory awoke, images of half-remembered dreams dancing 
through his head. He rose, straightened his shirt, and proceeded to 
his quarters. 
 
 
...... 
 
 
	Olgin Penthrach lay on his bed. A large sag followed. He had 
just finished his evening meal and was preparing for bed. 
	He felt a sickly feeling creep into his stomach. He rose and 
walked to his small basin. He fetched one of the pills that the doctor 
had given him. Cautiously, he placed it in his mouth and swallowed. 
He had some water to help him. 
	'AHHH, MUCH BETTER ....' 
 
	Rather merrily, Penthrach resumed his position on the bed and soon 
fell asleep. 
 
 
	Lt. T'irna sat in her room, contemplating the events of the 
day, as she meditated. 
	Again she stood on a black featureless plain. She was conscious 
of thought and yet no action. Calmly, she examined the events of the 
day from a more objective viewpoint. 
	Slowly, she allowed color to seep into her background of darkness. 
	Soon, her room reappeared and she rose from her seated position 
and reclined on her bed. 
 
	'NOW, FOR THE DREAMS.....' the thought wafted through her 
mind, neither fearful nor certain. 
 
 
 
	Assali eased into his bed, he was tired. Not only had he had 
the nerve-wracking experience of commanding the ship, but he had just 
finished working with Garin Meede for 4 more hours. 
	Meede wasn't a bad fellow, in fact, he was good company, yet he 
seemed tireless. Still, the modifications were now complete. Assali 
drifted off to sleep. 
 
 
........... 
 
 
	Commander V'hozen of the Romulan Warbird Zha'sa studied 
his tactical display. 
 
	"Commander, estimated time to the star system 10.3 hours." 
 
	V'hozen merely nodded his head. He already knew what the 
arrival time was to be. Meanwhile, he was contemplating the failure 
of the first contingency plan. 
	He felt no regret at the loss of a few Ferengi lives, he 
did feel regret that no further information was obtained. He still 
had no definitive knowledge about the Delphi, save that it looked 
like a Pentalia-class ship and was capable of at least warp factor 6. 
The Ferengi felt that the Delphi must have some form of cloak technology 
since their ships had been unable to detect it until they had been hailed. 
In fact, the ambushers had become the ambushed as a Nebulae class vessel 
arrived as well. 
 
	'PTHAHH, FERENGI ARE FOOLS REGARDLESS.' V'hozen thought. 
 
	Now the burden was on him to determine the capabilities of the 
Delphi, as well as evaluate the usefulness of the information that they 
were receiving. 
 
	'IT IS ALWAYS GOOD TO HAVE A FRIEND IN THE ENEMY'S CAMP.' 
 
	To V'hozen, it appeared that the Romulans' "colleague" in the 
Federation had outlived his usefulness. Especially in light of the 
errors in previous reports. 
 
	The cloaked pulse transmitter had distinctly recorded that 
Lt. Cmmdr Akimbe Assali was in command of the Delphi. V'hozen never 
fully trusted the transmitters however, since they only sent their data 
once per day so that the chance of their detection would be minimal 
And if the Federation discovered the transmitter, it could easily be 
avoided, or even given false information. It had a failsafe self-destruct 
mechanism should it be tampered with. 
 
	'NOW TO MOVE AND WAIT.' V'hozen continued to examine his tactical 
options. He gazed at the technical readouts that had been 'obtained' 
on the Delphi. 
 
 
........... 
 
 
	0430 
 
	Midshipmen Bronsdale and Albert both stood in the security hall 
working on their phaser accuracy as had been commanded by their security 
chief.  Both were surprised as Meede himself walked in and picked up a 
pair of phasers. 
	Without even acknowledging their presence he began firing 
at his targets. While Bronsdale and Albert continued their practice, 
they were both well aware of the accuracy and speed with which Meede 
was completing targets. Neither had ever seen a performance like that and 
needless to say, both were impressed. 
 
	0445 
 
	Garin Meede walked over to his two security officers, looking 
at their results on accuracy. Already both were much improved. 
 
	"Good to see that you two are paying your dues. Keep up the hard 
work. One day you'll find it will pay itself off. You are dismissed until 
our 0500 meeting, at which time you should be here in clean uniforms." 
 
	Albert and Bronsdale glanced at each other and then left. 
 
 
	0500 
 
	"Security company. After careful consideration of your records and 
assessment of your respective abilities, I have made the following security 
detail assignments. In addition to normal security operations, each of 
you will be responsible for other 'extracurricular' activities. 
	Ensign Zalvosta you will train further in the use of various 
phaser type weaponry. Additionally, you will begin training for away-teams. 
This will encompass leadership skills, medical skills, and basic survival 
strategies. 
	Midshipman Seneschal, you will concentrate on phaser weaponry 
as well, with emphasis not only in firing ability, but also creation and 
maintenance. Also, you will work with some of the more non-conventional 
weaponry. 
	Ensign Hamden, Midshipman Greely, you will work with engineering and 
tactical so that you may gain more familiarity with starship tactics and 
repair of key systems. 
	Midshipman Upaw, you will concentrate on security procedures and 
protocols, their implementation, detection, and evasion. 
	Midshipmen Albert and Bronsdale, you will focus on EVA procedures. 
As well, you will also work with hand combat and shuttle piloting. 
 
	Company dismissed. " 
 
 
........ 
 
 
	0800 
 
	"Begin Daywatch. 
	 Helmsman Qhasmon report position and distance from target system." 
	 Malory glanced around at his bridge crew, all were in place as 
expected. It had been over a  day since the Delphi had left Starbase 89. 
It had been over one *uneventful* day, to be precise. Malory's gut told 
him that this would change. 
 
	"Time to system 12.4 hours at current speed." 
 
	"Lt. T'irna report on system ." 
 
	"Sir, the star system contains 2 planetoids orbiting a blue 
supergiant star. Neither can support life, both however contain 
various ores and such that could make mining productive. In fact, 
one planetoid contains a large amount of material that could be made into 
duranium. The larger planetoid has a radius of 16,331 kilometers while 
the smaller has a radius of 10,542 kilometers." 
 
	"I see." Malory said, a slight smile on his lips. 
	"Mr. Assali, what are your thoughts of this system as strategically 
important." 
 
	"It does provide a reasonable 'jumping off point' as well as having 
the planetoid that Lt. T'irna mentioned. I would say that this would be a 
fairly adequate strategic system." 
 
	"Mr. Qhasmon, bring us to a standard orbit around the smaller 
planetoid. 
	Ms. T'irna make sure that there is no technology present on either 
planetoid, then begin passive long range ORACLE sensor scans. 
	Mr. O'bourne, inform me immediately upon noting and anomolies in 
subspace field densities. 
	Let's see what happens." 
 
 
.......... 
 
 
	"Commander, we have a contact, Federation starship in orbit 
around the second planetoid in the Dara-2 star system." 
 
	"Are they scanning for us ?" V'hozen replied. 
 
	"...No sir, apparently they are not making long range scans. 
They seem to be investigating the planetoid." 
 
	"Plot an intercept course." 
 
	Sub Commander V'thaii knew not to question his Commander's 
decisions. He plotted the course and prepared to enter it, pending 
the Commander's notification. 
 
 
 
..... 
 
 
	"Captain, I am picking up some small disturbance. It is hard to 
really track with passive scans though." 
 
	Malory glanced over at his ORACLE 2 operator. 
	"Position ?" 
 
	"It is just about to enter this system.... Hey ! It could be a 
cloaked ship !!" 
 
	"Calm yourself Lt. 
	 Mr. Assali take on tactical. 
	 Helm break orbit and take us on a course to the other planetoid. 
	 Ms. T'irna, scan the planetoid below us one last time, then initiate 
active scans of this system." 
 
....... 
 
	"Commander, they are scanning the planetoid actively. 
It seems as if they are now performing a standard Federation scan of the 
system." 
 
	"Prepare to disengage cloaking device and begin to route power to 
the shields and forward disruptors." 
 
	"Yes Commander." 
 
 
....... 
 
 
	"Captain. We have a very small disturbance approaching. In theory, 
it could be a cloaked ship that is moving at impulse. Such would yield a 
much smaller disturbance pattern than one moving at warp. I would speculate 
that it is actually a cloaked vessel." 
 
	"I agree Lt. T'irna. In fact, I would bet that it is a cloaked 
Romulan Warbird. Continue to relay its position to both Helm and Tactical. 
	Lt. O'bourne, see if you can determine what wavelength their sensors 
are operating on. 
	Helm, continue steady. We wouldn't want them to know that we know 
they're here .... yet." 
 
	"Sir they are slowly circling us." Qhasmon stated. 
	Malory noted that the Andorian's antennae were twitching now. 
 
	"Steady on." 
 
	"Captain, I think that I have isolated the frequency of their 
sensor emissions and wavelength." 
 
	"Heh heh" Malory grinned. 
 
	"Lt. broadcast a shifted sensor pattern to the Romulan Warbird, 
this should trick their sensors into misreading us ...." Malory was beaming. 
 
	"Let them see us as we are, yet with no shield emissions or phaser 
emissions. 
 
	Mr. Assali, energize shields and phasers. 
	Mr. Penthrach advise Lt. Meede that we will be in a potential 
combat situation and to prepare accordingly. Also inform Mr. Korn that 
we will be readying for potential combat." 
 
 
....... 
 
	"Commander V'hozen, they are continuing on course towards the 
next planetoid. Our sensors show that .... They show that the Federation 
ship is apparently unaware of us, since they have not raised shields or 
initiated an alert." 
 
	"Why the pause tactical officer ?" 
 
	"Sir, there was a momentary glitch on our sensors, they seem to be 
operating within acceptable parameters now, although they are slightly 
different from when we began surveying the ship.." 
 
	"Reason for change ?" 
 
	"Unknown sir. Still, the operations are within specified parameters." 
 
	"Helm bring us to face vessel. 
	 Disengage cloaking device." 
 
...... 
 
	"Captain. Romulan Warbird decloaking directly ahead." Qhasmon hissed. 
 
	Malory felt a cold knot in his stomach, he had expected it. 
 
	"Keep cool everyone. 
	 Everyone keep a straight face, regardless of what I say. 
	 Mr. Penthrach hail the vessel." 
 
	 "Sir, the Warbird has armed its forward disruptors and raised its 
shields." Assali replied. Sweat beaded on his forehead. Staring down the 
face of a Romulan Warbird is not an everyday starship occurrence. Assali 
saw that he was in ideal phaser firing position. 
 
	"Channel open." Penthrach stated uneasily. 
 
	"Romulan vessel. 
	 This is Captain Malory of the Federation Starship Delphi. 
	 You are in violation of treaty. 
	 Depart Federation space immediately." 
 
 
...... 
 
	 'MALORY, ASSALI IS SUPPOSED TO BE IN COMMAND OF THE DELPHI..' 
V'hozen looked at the face of his opponent. It was youthful but the 
eyes were confident. 
 
	"Or what Captain Malory of the Federation Starship Delphi. 
Do you dare attack a Romulan Warbird with your paltry vessel. 
We claim this space now for the Romulan Empire. Depart or Die." 
 
...... 
 
	Malory smiled. 
 
	"Obviously, you have never faced a Federation Pentalia before. 
If you are prepared to handle my armament...... As a saying 
goes.... 'more power to you'." 
 
	"Mr. Assali, prepare photon torpedoes." 
 
	Will O'bourne glanced at Assali and then back to his own 
sensor readouts. 
 
	Malory sat in his chair and stared at the Romulan Commander, 
a smile on his lips. 
 
........ 
 
 
	"Close audio helm." 
 
	"Commander, we are scanning a massive power surge in two of the 
side sections of the Delphi..... I have never seen a power signature 
quite like this, it seems to be a variant of a photon torpedo but 
significantly more powerful..." 
 
	'CURIOUS. THE DELPHI IS SUPPOSED TO HAVE NO PHOTONS ACCORDING TO 
INFORMATION.' 
 
	"Have they raised shields yet ?" 
 
	"Apparently not sir.... We are still scanning no shield emissions 
from them..." 
 
	"Speculate on yield of a photon torpedo of that power signature." 
 
	"Sir a torpedo like that would be able to destroy most, if not all 
of our forward shields with one impact." 
 
 
	"Acknowledged. 
	 Re-engage audio." 
 
	"Captain Malory, I am sure that you know how useful a photon 
torpedo is against a target that it cannot aquire..... I commend 
your posturing. It will do you no good however." 
 
 
........ 
 
 
	"Commander. If I were in your situation and saw that I was facing 
a vessel that apparently had no shields raised even though it was 
encountering an enemy vessel, I would ask myself two questions. 
	1) Is the commanding officer of the opposing vessel incompetent? 
	2) Are my sensors reading his ship properly. 
	Now, If you think that I am incompetent, then fire.... 
If on the other hand, you think that I am not incompetent, then I , if 
I were you, would re-evaluate my position. 
	You seem to be putting an exorbitant amount of faith in your 
scientists who are far from here as well as giving very little respect 
to Federation scientists. A possibly deadly conceit. 
	My shields are raised..... Can you detect them ? 
If you can't then I, if I were you, would seriously consider the potential 
that the Delphi could track you while cloaked." 
 
	Malory deliberately looked at his helmsman, "Mr. Qhasmon, prepare for 
combat maneuvers." 
 
	Malory faced the viewscreen. 
 
	"Your verdict Romulan Commander..... ?" 
 
	Malory smiled. 
--

'Sooge'
sks1@ra.msstate.edu

Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative