Deep Space Guardian: Season II-Episode 29

[Founder]

Captain's Log-Stardate 58452.4

A few days have passed since a wormhole to the Delta quadrant has opened next to the station. Malon ships have returned back to their quadrant, but not after leaving a nasty surpise to Fito's back porch. They returned, some damaged and some didn't even return at all. Nautolian and Cardassian ships managed to push them out of their space, but not before damage was done. The Malon captains were furious, but did not attempt a fight and simply left, vowing to never return. We've managed to stabilise the wormhole but T'Sa and the Intrepid class ship sent to study it, the USS Bellerophon, have both confirmed that the wormhole will not remain open indefinitly like the Bajoran one. It will collapse in on itself within the next ten months. Starfleet is taking advantage of this and sending ships to the other side. Meanwhile, I informed Starfleet about what happened with the Malon and not surprisingly, they did not mind. They didn't mind when Starfleet nearly committed genocide against the Founders, they won't care about this. I've been left with the arduous task of dealing with a proper, but exausting governor. I'm going down to Elerra Prime to see how the construction is going, but not before I do something though. I'm contacting Starfleet command about my first officer, Kyle Katran. That man hasn't been around the station long enough to even assist with any of his tasks. He is part of some...marine type group and spends more time with that, then he does command. I hate him to the core of my being and want him off the station-oh hell-what am I saying? He is ALWAYS off the station. Let me rephrase, I want him off indefinitly. End log.

[La Forge]

Bajoran Transport



The relatively empty Bajoran transport vessel slowly made its way through the blackness of space to the Federation space station, Deep Space Guardian. The transport was now approaching the station, just days after the station had went though a crisis involving the Malon species of the Delta Quadrant. Even, now, one could see the effects of that incident. A green wormhole had appeared outside the station, during the Malon crisis. Now, starships and other vessels were constantly coming to and from the wormhole, seeing as there was little time left for the wormhole. The unstable wormhole would remain open for a couple months, at the most. Unlike the Bajoran Wormhole, which has remained active for hundreds of years.

Anyways...There were few passengers aboard the Bajoran transport vessel. Oddly, enough, only a few of the few passengers were even Bajorans. Most were of different races. However, several Bajorans were onboard the vessel, all the same. One of these Bajorans happened to be a Mister Kerim Bay, a Cardassian collaborator.



Many knew of Mister Kerim's deeds during the First Cardassian Occupation. Kerim sold out many Bajoran families during the time of the Occupation, to protect his own life and his own family from the horrors of war. However, with a few bribes, Kerim has managed to stay away from prison for his deeds, even years after the Occupation has ended. When the Second Occupation began, using some past contacts, Kerim managed to escape Bajor, unscathed. During the past year or so, Kerim has wandered the galaxy, waiting out the rest of his days. Kerim was an old man. He would be turning ninety-seven in a few days. Sadly, Kerim wouldn't be around to celebrate his birthday. Kerim wouldn't be around for much longer...

The reason that Kerim had decided to come to Deep Space Guardian was because of the station's distance from Bajor and the Bajoran people. One would think that because of Kerim's deeds during the Occupation, he would not be so welcome among his own people. That would be correct. Because of what Kerim had done, he had made many enemies during his long life. He had come to the station to escape those that did not approve of his actions during the Occupation. All that Kerim wanted to do was live out his days in peace, away from the action, away from everything.

Kerim had plans to move to the planet below the station; Elerra Prime. Kerim had heard of a colonization project that was to begin soon on the planet's surface. Kerim hoped to assist in this. Elerra Prime seemed to be a nice enough place. Away from the action, so to speak. A very peaceful and beautiful place. Kerim had hoped to live out the rest of his days on the planet...A luxury that he would not be able to enjoy.



About Kerim's many enemies...One of his said enemies was onboard that same Bajoran transport vessel. In fact, the mysterious man was sitting right behind Kerim, himself. Kerim was currently gazing out of his window, at the stars and the approaching Ournal II class space staion, most likely thinking of days long past and days soon to come. The mysterious man who sat behind Kerim was doing the same, however, he was secretly keeping an eye on Kerim, all the while. The mysterious man seemed to have an agenda of sorts...And this agenda seemed to involve Kerim, in some way.

Moments later, the vessel finally arrived at the station. Slowly, the ship docked at one of the station's many docking ports, many of which were occupied by a certain Governer and his people. As the vessel docked at the station, Kerim slowly stood up and gathered his belongings, which merely consisted of a metallic suitcase, an ornate cane, and a hat. Kerim left his seat and made his way down the carpeted aisle of the small Bajoran transport, to the exit of the vessel. The mysterious man behind Kerim watched the old man from his seat for a moment, before standing and following Kerim out of the vessel, not wanting to lose sight of Kerim in the throng of people. The mysterious man brought nothing with him, as he left the vessel...Something was quite peculiar about that man...

Deep Space Guardian, Docking Port

Kerim made his way through the mob of people, exiting the vessel and those coming to greet the new arrivals, as quickly as he could for a man with arthritis.

Kerim has had to use a cane to move ever since he was sixty-six, thirty-one years ago. That was after he was attacked by a mob of angry Bajorans on Risa. Kerim had vowed never to return to Risa, ever, again, after that. During the attack, Kerim had had both of his legs broken, in multiple places. Kerim was lucky to have survived. However, ever since, then, Kerim had to go everywhere with a cane, in order to walk, properly. And, now, with his old age, the cane was vital for his even movement. Obviously, Kerim had been beaten because he was a collaborator. One of the many risks that accompany collaborating with the Cardassians...Just one of the risks that Kerim had to take, in order to save himself and his family from a horrible life in a concentration camp. Kerim couldn't have allowed that. However, even after he had risked his life in helping the Cardassians, just to save himself and his family from a life of pain, his wife had left him and taken his children with him. Even, now, his children wouldn't speak to him, calling him a collaborator who had sold his pagh to the Pah-Wraiths, just to save himself. How could they say that? After what he had done for them? They would have been dead, now, if it wasn't for him! How could they cast him out, just like that, after he had save their lives!?! Kerim didn't know, anymore...It still hurt him, everyday, though. The memories...the nightmares...All of it...He could never forget what he had done. But...He couldn't let that get the best of him. If he did, he would surely go insane. Kerim had to believe that what he had done was the right decision...But...Was it? Did he make the right choice? He would never know, now...His choice had been made. There was no changing it now. He had to live with what he has done or give in to the constant pain. He couldn't give in. That would mean that he would finally just give up and die. No...He wouldn't allow that to happen. He had to live...He just had to...

Kerim, now out of the mob, let out a sigh of relief and began to slowly make his way out of the Docking Port. However, Kerim was not alone as he made his way towards the doors. No...The mysterious man from the transport vessel was following Kerim.

Deep Space Guardian, Promenade

Kerim made his way down the many corridors of the vast space station until he arrived on the bustling Promenade. The mysterious man that had been following Kerim since he had departed the Bajoran vessel was still trailing Kerim from the darkness, not missing a beat.

When Kerim stepped onto the Promenade, everything seemed to simply stop moving. It seemed as if all eyes were on him. Kerim could feel the pain...Feel the guilt...He could feel the Bajorans hatred of him. Oh! He could feel it. The pain was burning right through him, burning a massive hole in his very soul...in his pagh. It hurt. He could feel the pain...the intense pain. It was killing him. The guilt...It was wracking away at him, every second that he stood there. He couldn't stand there anymore. He couldn't bear the intense pain...or the guilt...or anything! He had to move...Go away...Go somewhere.

Kerim rushed forward, moving as fast as he could, with the help of his cane. All the while, people, mostly Bajorans, were looking upon him with disgust. They know who he is...They know of what he has done. Every single one of them hated him. Hated him with all of their hearts. Someone who can sell out his own people like that...Someone like that...That is unforgivable. Kerim could almost hear what they were thinking...

"Traitor!" He heard....

"Coward!" He heard...

"Collaborator!!!" He heard...

However, after a moment, Kerim realized that people really were shouting at him. A mob had enclosed around him. Was he going to be attacked, again? Had they come to finish the job? Were they going to kill him? They wanted to...Kerim could feel it...He knew that they had come to finish what they had started. They were going to kill him...They were going to put him out of his misery.

As the mob enclosed around Kerim, shouting and hollering, the man that had been following Kerim, simply watched from the sidelines, with a smug smile on his face...There was something...very wrong...with this man...

Seconds later, security officers arrived on the scene, phasers in hand. The men broke up the mob and allowed Kerim to leave, despite the mob's protests. One of the Bajorans broke free and rushed at Kerim. With no other choice, the security officer's were forced to shoot the man. The Bajoran who had rushed forward at Kerim was hit with a phaser blast and fell to the floor, stunned by the shot.

During the whole ordeal, Kerim could hear nothing. He could see the people's mouths move, but, he heard nothing. He, himself, tried to speak, but, alas, he could hear nothing. The world seemed to be moving at the pace of a snail. Everything was different...It felt as if the whole world was against him. Suddenly, Kerim felt one of the security officer's grab his arm. Kerim snapped out of his trance and looked over to face the man who had touched him. It was a Bolian.



"Sir? Sir? Are you alright, sir? You look ill. Perhaps I should take you to Sickbay and have the doctor check up on you and see if you are alright." the Bolian man shouted, trying to get through to Kerim. Kerim, who could now hear everything, again, simply shook his head.

"No...No...I'm fine...Just...let me go to my arranged quarters and rest." a tired Kerim said, at length. The Bolian rose an eyebrow at the old Bajoran man, finding it odd for him to decline the offer. Something was wrong with the old man...The Bolian man could feel it. Although, it wasn't his place to force him to do anything against his will. After all, the Bajoran had done nothing wrong, from what the Bolian could see. It would only be fair to let him be on his way.

"Very, well, sir. However, I believe that it would be in your best interest to allow me to assign a security officer to your quarters, to make sure that something like this-" the Bolian shot a look behind his shoulder at the mob that the security officers were currently holding back. Just, then, one of the security officers was forced to shoot another Bajoran, who had broken through the barricade. The man simply feel to the floor, unconscious, right beside the other. "-doesn't happen, again." the Bolian finished.

Kerim thought over the Bolian security officer's words for a moment before finally nodding his head, in agreement. It was the smart thing to do. Kerim had made many enemies in his time. It would be silly to believe that there were no such enemies on Deep Space Guardian. Just look at this mob. One could see that many people wanted Kerim...hurt...to say the least.

"Yes..." Kerim muttered. "I believe that some extra protection would be smart. My quarters are on Deck 747, Room 1001. Thank you, sir. I am glad that the officers of this station are on the job." Kerim explained, using all of the strength and heart that he could muster in order to crack a faint smile...an oddly empty and eerie smile.

The Bolian nodded, happy that the Bajoran agreed.

"Good. I'll see to it that there will be a security officer stationed outside your quarters, immediately. Now...Perhaps you need an envoy to protect you until you reach your quarters..." the Bolian suggested.

Kerim shook his head.

"No. I'll be fine." Kerim said, adamantly. He didn't want a security officer walking around with him, everywhere he went. He didn't want to stand out. A security officer tagging along everywhere that Kerim went would most certainly call for attention. Kerim couldn't have that.

The Bolian raised an eyebrow, but, didn't argue the Bajorans decision. The Bajoran seemed to be quite adamant in his decision.

"Alright..." the Bolian muttered, with a little suspicion in his voice. He looked back over his shoulder to see that the mob had dispersed and the few Bajorans who had attempted to break the barricade were now in custody. Quite a little mess on the Promenade. "Have a good day, sir." the Bolian said, at last, ending with a smile. The Bajoran seemed quite odd, but, it wasn't the Bolian's job to judge who visits the station. Just to make sure that they obey the law. "Just one thing...I'll be needing to know your name." the Bolian added, almost as an afterthought.

At this, the Bajoran's face and expression changed from that of relief to fright. If he told the security officer his name...Well...Then, the Bolian might realize who he was...If they found out who he really was...what he had done...then, he might be arrested. Kerim wasn't cut out for prison. He couldn't last one night. He had managed to bribe his way out of prison for the most part. Although...Kerim didn't believe that he could bribe the Federation. If he was caught, he would be in serious trouble. He couldn't tell the Bolian his real name. He needed to come up with an alias and fast.

"My name?" Kerim repeated, sounding scared, as he tried to come up with a cover. He studdered for a moment before finally speaking, again, after thinking up an alias, to give to the security officer. The man couldn't know who he really was. He simply couldn't. Kerim wasn't going to spend the rest of his short life in a jail cell. "My name is...Vega Quaran..."

The Bolian looked at the Bajoran, quizically, with a raised eyebrow.

"Alright...Mister Quaran...Vega...Have a good day." the Bolian said, at last, waving the Bajoran man away as the old man scuttled away...Scuttled away from the whole ordeal...From everything...On his last walk before...death.

Because, as Kerim walked away, that same man who had been following Kerim all this time began to follow him, again. The man moved so stealthily, so the Bolian couldn't see him follow in the old Bajoran man's footsteps. The Bolian didn't care, either way. He did his duty. He couldn't foretell that that man was to die within the hour...

The Bolian simply sighed and turned around to face the other security officers.

"Somebody please contact Commander Robitaille. Inform him of the recent events that happened here on the Promenade. Also...Would someone please run a search on a Vega Quaran? That Bajoran seemed...odd. Something was bothering him. I couldn't place my finger on it. I want to know who he is." the Bolian ordered his squad.

[Founder]

-DSG, Captain's Office-

Ian took a sip of raktajino while waiting for a response from Starfleet command. He sent them a communique, demanding he wanted to speak to someone about Katran. It had been nearly fifteen minutes since he had been told to wait while they find the chief of staff to speak with him. Ian wished they would hurry up, he was to meet with governor Al-Firdos within the hour. The colonization efforts were quickly under way and people were working fast. The Romulan refugees even volunteered to assist, in payment for being allowed to use the planet for so long. Ian could tell the Romulans were getting tired of being there wanted to return home. One way or the other, they would attempt to do so. At first, Ian was apprehensive about letting the colonist stay on the planet with the Zalbogians still being there. Ian attempted to communicate with the Titan through telepathy or thought-speak. He knew the powerful being could read minds and would detect his thoughts. Nearly an hour of directing his thoughts to the planet and nothing came up. There was no response from the Titan or from any Zalbogian for that matter. It made Ian somewhat concerned and he decided he would stop at the temple after he was done inspecting the growing colony. He gently placed the cup on his desk and looked back at the screen. The same image of Starfleet command was still sitting there, almost mocking him.



Ian looked away and walked towards the replicator. He had a big craving for an icoberry torte, it went so well with the Klingon coffee he was drinking. Almost as if Starfleet timed it right, the image changed to show vice admiral Smith, demoted to that rank thanks to Fito. Ian sat down and stared at a man who had been his bane since he first came to the station.

"Vice admiral Smith," Ian said, slightly surprised, "I was trying to contact the chief of staff."

Smith leaned forward, his face very close to the screen.



"I am the chief of staff," He said, "And I'm no longer a vice admiral. I'm a full admiral again."

A wide smirk crossed his face and he sat back, leaning in his chair. Meanwhile, Ian, who was across space, looked at him in surprise. He had been promoted to his old rank? He was the chief of staff?

"You're the new chief of staff?" Ian asked, not able to believe it.

Smith nodded his head in confirmation, "That's right captain. President Goddard has been moving various officers around, including your old friend, fleet admiral Ni. He now is leading the fleet in our fight against the Nautolians."

Ian shuddered inwardly, not liking that idea at all. He was happy his father's old friend was promoted, but leading the fleet during the war? The admiral's ship, that was leading the fleet, was always targetted first in a battle.

"I've been made the chief of staff," He reiterated, "Now...what can I do for you?"

The smug look on Smith's face was almost enough to make Ian close out the channel. Smith may have had a small victory but it wouldn't last forever. He decided to stop the questions and just get on to bussiness.

"I've contacted you all because I want to complain about my first officer." He said.

"Major Kyle Katran?" Smith asked, "Besides his love for that...bastard race...what is wrong with him?"

Ian quickly responded, not skipping a beat.

"Whats not wrong with him?" He asked, "The man is NEVER on the station. He is always on some damn assignment. I don't think I've had one report for him? My chief of security is always running the station while I'm gone and-"

"So whats wrong with that?" Smith retorted, "In your reports, you said Lieutenant Commander Robitaille is a fine and outstanding officer. You even recommended him to take up the vacant FO position!"

Ian shook his head and spoke to clarify what he meant.

"It is not that Blake is doing a bad job, because he is isn't," He said, "But its the fact that Katran is not doing his job..."

Smith laced his fingers together and placed the enclosed fist on his desk.

"Let me tell you something captain," He replied, "Katran is doing his job. He isn't just your first officer, but a major in a special ops group in Starfleet. If we want to win the war, we're going to have to have men like him and his team to get the job done."

"Then I formally request a new first officer," He said, calmly, "One that is not part of any militia or special ops group or anything of that nature. Someone who can focus on the security of the station, rather than-"

The newly promoted man quickly interrupted.

"-protect the Federation?" He quickly continued, before Ian could protest, "The answer is no captain. Katran stays there. It is good to have someone so close to Nautolian space."

Ian shut his eyes for a few seconds in annoyance. He stared at the keys on the computer, then looked back at Smith.

"It isn't just that admiral," He truthfully said, "The fact that he has ties with the Nautolians is disturbing. He even has one of their weapons. I don't like it one bit and neither does many on the station."

Smith chuckled and shook his head.

"I assure you," He reassured, "If Katran is even suspected of being a traitor, I would send him to rot in a prison. Not a cozy Federation one at that."

Ian had the biggest urge to call him on that, especially after he had done to Fito. Not that it hurt Ian or anything. What hurt Ian was making the plan to rescue him in the first place.

"May I ask where the good Major is now?" He asked.

Smith shook his head.

"Absolutely not," He said, "That is classified information, but I will say this, we have not heard from him in some time. He could be dead, but I don't know. You may get your wish captain, no more Katran."

He laughed and moved his hand over a button.

"This discussion is over. Admiral Smith out." He said, then turned off the channel.

Ian sat back in his seat, staring at the now blank screen. He certainly did not want Katran to die, just leave. His head shook, trying to get rid of the matter. He still had to meet with the governor...

[Valathous]

~ Blake's Office, Security HQ, Deep Space Guardian ~

Blake was sitting in his office, now in a rather good mood knowing that the Malon had succeeded in his plans to slow the Cardassians and the Nautolians. What the extent of the damage was, he was not sure, but from what he had heard it was fairly significant. Blake was also pleased to hear that no one within Starfleet found his decision bad or immoral, but actually backed it. It seemed that of all those who knew who held any importance were Captains Xavier and T'Sa.

Blake was getting ready to present his report and blueprints to the Captain about expanding the security areas to take over the marine deck, along with his request for more security officers to fill the void left by the marines. This was interupted by a chime at his door.

"Come in," Blake called out.

As the doors opened, in came Lieutenant Pierre Dagenais. He approached the desk and took a seat as Blake motioned towards the chair infront of his desk.

"What can I do for you, Pierre?"

"I've just received a report of a mob of Bajorans in the Promenade attacking an old Bajoran man," Dagenais began, "The mob was quelled, with several being taken in custody after ignoring security. The old man is odd, but Ensign B'Lahk said that he seemed rather suspicious and had us ran a search under his given name; Quaran Vega. Nothing came up in our databases or those provided by Bajor."

Blake raised an eyebrow in suspician, with his fingers in a pyramid form.

"Well, I suggest we keep an eye on this Quaran Vega and see if anything else arises. The Bajorans on this station for the most part have been quiet and peaceful," Blake said, noticing the oddity of the situation, "It's rather uncharacteristic of them. Perhaps we can give Colonol Ryder something to do. She may know of some pre-existing issues with an old Bajoran man. I don't want this to become a reoccuring issue."

"Aye sir," Pierre replied, "Shall I call her?"

"That's alright. I'll do it. Dismissed."

With that Dagenais nodded and stood up, exitting the room and into the security headquarters where he resumed his desk work for the time being. Once the doors had closed Blake tapped his comm-badge.

"Colonol Ryder, this is Commander Robitaille. Could you please come to my office for a moment?"

[La Forge]

Deep Space Guardian, Quarters



Colonel Ryder Melina stood before an odd-looking object, a duranja, a large ornate Bajoran prayer oil lamp. It is also called a 'lamp for the dead' and is used, as the name implies, to pray for the deceased.

Currently, Melina wore only the white undershirt of her Bajoran uniform. Her red jacket had been placed over a nearby wooden chair.

Melina was chanting some sort of prayer in Bajoran, as she stood before the duranja. She held onto the side of the duranja, as she stood and chanted.

Despite what many would think, Melina was a very religious woman. Every day, she prayed for her dead countrymen, for those who had died during the Occupation. She prayed for all dead Bajorans. Most of all, she prayed for her parents, who had died in the Occupation. At the moment, she was praying for her parents.

"Raka-ja ut shala morala... ema bo roo kana... uranak... ralanon Freya... propeh va nara ehsuk shala-kan vunek..." Melina muttered, praying for her mother.

(Do not let her walk alone... guide her on her journey... protect... the one named Freya... take her into the gates of heaven...)

"Raka-ja ut shala morala... ema bo roo kana... uranak... ralanon Verek... propeh va nara ehsuk shala-kan vunek..." Melina muttered, praying for her father.

(Do not let him walk alone... guide him on his journey... protect... the one named Verek... take him into the gates of heaven...)

Just as she finished her prayers and was about to put out the duranja, her combadge, which was still attached to her jacket on the chair, rang out.

Melina almost jumped out of her skin at the sound of the combadge. Because of her prayers, she had opened up her body and mind and made herself very susceptible to emotion. After all, that was what prayer was about. To open up the body and mind...to cleanse the body and soul or pagh, as the Bajorans called it.


Melina quickly put out the duranja before rushing over to the chair to respond to the message.

"Colonel Ryder, this is Commander Robitaille. Could you please come to my office for a moment?" came Commander Robitaille's voice.

Melina tapped her combadge, in order to respond to Commander Robitaille's message, before she pulled her jacket over her undershirt.

"Understood, Commander. I'm on my way. Ryder out." Melina said, firmly, into the combadge. She was back on duty, now. Something that pleased her a great deal. She had been doing idle tasks for the last week or so, since the Marine incident. However, there had been one good thing that had come from her time off. Jorak...

Melina sighed before exiting her quarters, heading out into the adjoining hallway.

DSG, Corridor

Melina made her way to Commander Robitaille's office. Now, standing outside of his office, Melina rang the chime, to announce her arrival.

[Valathous]

~ Blake's Office, Security HQ, Deep Space Guardian ~

Blake sat in his office for several moments working out another shift schedule for security officers as not to waste time until the Colonol arrived. She did arrive fairly quickly though, and looked up at the door.

"Enter," Blake said as the doors swished open and the Colonol stepped in, "Good to see you Colonol. Please, have a seat."

Blake motioned for her to take a seat in the chair across from his desk.

"This won't take long, I just have an incident I wish to ask you about that happened on the Promenade recently," Blake started to explain, "Nothing involving you, just perhaps that you may know of something that could have triggered it."

[La Forge]

Blake's Office, Security HQ, Deep Space Guardian

Melina took a seat in front of Commander Robitaille's desk. In order to make herself comfortable, Melina crossed her legs over her knee, in a masculine manner. Melina had always been a tomboy.

Melina listened intently as to what Commander Robitaille had to say. Melina was happy to know that she finally had something to do. She didn't want to feel like baggage for the crew. She was now finally becoming useful.

"Hmmmmm..." Melina muttered, to herself, as she stroked her chin, going over the info. "So...What's happened, Commander?" Melina asked, in a very business-like manner. Melina was not one for small-talk.

[Lord Borg]

-Deep Space Guardian, Ops-

The turbolift doors opened, Archer steped out and looked around. It was quiet. Several officers were on Ops, doing their duties, regular scans, maintence, diagnostics, what ever it was that filled time. Jones nodded to Archer in aknowlagement. Archer nodded back and steped over. "Lieutenant" Archer said simply. Jones looked back and replied. "Captain, it's good to see you today." Archer nodded. "Thanks....Is uh...Captain Xaiver busy?" Jones looked back to Ian's doors. "Well sir, he was talking to Vice-Admiral Smith at one point, I think he has an appointment with the new Governer of Elerra Prime..." Jones paused for a moment, then sighed quietly. "I think he'd like to see you for a bit....he's had a...busy day." Archer nodded in understanding. Ian needed steam to blow somewheres. "Thank you Lieutenant." Jones nodded. "Of course, sir." Archer went to the doors of Ian's office and rang the chime. He heard the words: "Enter" The doors opened and Archer steped in. "Hey Ian, how's it going?"

-Deep Space Guardian, T'Sa's Quarters-

T'Sa was sitting in the middle of the floor, cross legged. She was meditating. Her eyes were close, her back rigid, her hands relaxed, but facing up. In front of her candels burned. Ian had given her permission to use candels when she mediated. She concentraited on the sounds of her breathing. Working on her emotional control, her devotion to logic. There was no other sound that she payed attention to...

-Deep Space Guardian, Security Office-

Lieutenant Junior Grade Alicia Stone walked into the security office. Several minutes before, she had arrived on a transport and came in though a docking port. She requested Deep Space Guardian as her new post, as station life seemed to call her. This is where it all started with Fito. The bastard had caused so much pain and suffering. Many were killed on the initial attack on the station. On one hand, she was glad she wasn't here for it. On the other hand, she wished she was, so she could rip the tenticals, or what ever the hell they were from the heads of any Nautolian she came acrossed. She sighed quietly as she walked up to a desk. There was an officer sitting there. She didn't know his name or rank yet. She stood rigid at attention, her bag behind her a strap on her shoulder. She was in uniform. "Lieutenant, Junior Grade Alicia Stone reporting in."

[Founder]

-DSG, Captain's Office-

Ian was make a small, neat stack of PADDs on his desk, all of them reports that he had to read. There was no time, he was already late for his meeting with the governor. He stood up from his seat and looked at Archer, now finally done with cleaning his desk.

"Its going well, albeit hectic," He replied, "I'm heading to Elerra Prime. How are you?"

[Valathous]

~ Blake's Office, Security HQ, Deep Space Guardian ~

Blake recounted what he had heard from Dagenais in his head ready to relay it to the Bajoran liason officer aboard the station. He was rather content to find she wished to get straight to the matter at hand.

"Several security officers had to break up a large group of angry Bajorans in the form of a mob swarming an old Bajoran man," Blake began, "When the officers tried to hold them back several kept going, needing to be stunned to prevent them from reaching the older Bajoran man. A security officer is being placed outside his room to prevent people from breaking in, but I found it rather uncharacteristic of the normally peaceful Bajorans that dwell on this station."

Blake paused for a moment to allow the Colonol to sink in that information but once again resumed his story after a moment.

"One of my officers spoke to the old man and reported that he seemed rather suspicious and nervous. That, of course, would be reasonable considering he was just swarmed but what I want to know is why an old man was swarmed and why the name he gave, Quaran Vega, did not appear in any databases. While I doubt that you know about this specific incident I was wondering whether or not you knew anything about what an old Bajoran man could have done to cause a mob of angry Bajorans after having only just stepped off a transport. Perhaps he has done something before and was recognized, perhaps it was a case of mistaken identity, or maybe the mob simply had too much to drink..."

~ Security Office, Deep Space Guardian ~

The security officer looked up from his desk to see a female security officer whom he didn't recognize. Must have been a new transfer.

"You'll want to talk to Lieutenant Dagenais since Commander Robitaille is busy. The Lieutenant is just over there," the ensign said, pointing to Dagenais.

Dagenais looked up hearing his name and walked over to the young woman whom was being directed to him.

"How may I help you..." Dagenais looked at her collar, "Lieutenant?"

[Ziona]

DSG, Ziona's Quarters

Ziona groaned in her sleep and rolled over, startling herself as she almost fell right off the bed. She gripped the sheets and managed to balance herself before she fell. Her eyes darted around the room, registering that she was, indeed, aboard DSG and not on Risa anymore. A sigh of relief whispered over her lips as she sat up, rubbing her palm across her face and running her delicate fingers through her hair.

What a nightmare... the whole Risa thing had been a nightmare, not the vacation she had been hoping for. But none-the-less it had been worthwhile. She had spent time with Ian, although it was cut short by the runin with the alien humanoid.

After a few minutes of sitting and thinking, Ziona got up and went to take a shower, dressed quickly in her uniform and made her way towards the messhall. She was starving and needed food before she went to OPs to start her day.

[Lord Borg]

DSG, Captains Office

Archer shruged. "It's going ok. Word is the Oath is nearing completions of repairs, but strange sensor glitches have put things on hold for a few hous, I'll get word later on as to whats going on." Archer cleared his throat. "Meeting with the Governer?"

DSG, Security Office

Alicia blushed slightly as she was redirected. How embarrasing. Report into your supperiors, and it turns out you reported into someone you outrank. She turned to face the Lieutenant that she was directed to. Her 'boss' Robitaille was busy, this Dagenais bust be the second in charge. She answered him. "Lieutenant, Junior Grade Alicia Stone, Sir. Reporting in...."

[La Forge]

Blake's Office, Security HQ, Deep Space Guardian

Melina listened, intently, as Commander Robitaille recounted the events that had recently occured on the Promenade. At random intervals, Melina would nod her head, to show that she was paying attention to the Commander's story. Melina took her job very seriously. Especially when it involved her people.

"Well...I doubt that this...incident...had something to do with public drunkeness. That is something that is more suited to Klingons. Although, I wouldn't rule it out." Melina joked. However, she didn't laugh nor smile when she made the joke.

"Sadly, the name Quaran Vega does not ring any bells in my mind. However, this could easily be a false alias." Melina explained, back to business. "I have an idea as to why this happened. I believe that this 'Quaran Vega' must have done something before and was obviously recognized. I have an idea to what he might have done, but, I won't jump to any conclusions until I have evidence to back up my claim. Now..."

Melina coughed, covering her mouth with the back of her left hand.

"Excuse me. May I know where this Quaran Vega currently is? I would like to speak with him. That is...If you wouldn't mind allowing me to handle this investigation. This does seem to be a Bajoran affair, which falls under my jurisdiction. Still, I would like permission from you before I begin any unofficial investigation, as Captain Archer had done during the Marine crisis." Melina asked, with a twinge of hatred in her voice at Archer's name. However, her anger immediately dissipitated. Melina returned back to her normal calm and solemn self.

[Founder]

-DSG, Captain's Office-

Ian remembered that Archer was soon going to pick up his ship, the Hippocratic Oath, from dry dock soon. The ship needed immense repairs after crashing in a Federation colony world.

"I'm sure you'll be glad to get off the station," He said, "Even on DS5, you were a ship man."

Archer had been on the station with little to do for months. It may have been a nice shore leave of sorts, but he knew Archer and knew he wanted to get back out into space. Ian headed towards the door, rushing about.

"Yeah," He replied, "I'm beaming down to the planet to meet with governor Al-Firdos. You want to come?"

[Lord Borg]

-Deep Space Guardian, Captain's Ready-Room-

Archer nodded. "Sure, it's always nice to visit the planet." Archer followed Ian. "I have not had a chance to meet him yet, what kind of person is he?"

[Founder]

-DSG, OPS-

The two men walked out into OPS, heading towards the transporter pads in the corner of the large room. Unlike a starship bridge, OPS had a transporter pad within the main center. A station is much larger than a starship and walking all the way to transporter room was a long task. Although a transporter room was on the station, several in fact. That was more for dignitaries or others.

"He seems like a good and straight forward man," Ian replied, while continuing to walk, "Very...straight to the point though."

He stepped onto the transporter pad and motioned towards Jones.

"Two to beam down." He ordered.

"Aye sir." Jones said and locked onto their signal...and sent it to the planet below...

[Lord Borg]

-Elerra Prime-

Archer's vision went from Ops to the planet. The sight was breath taking. It had it's own beauty like countless other worlds in the federation. Archer nodded. "We seem to be in one piece...."

[Founder]

-Elerra Prime, Colony-

Ian looked around to see the edge of a growing city. A beautiful meadow stretched out on the other side of the colony. A beautiful sight, but Ian was not fooled. The planet was a lot like Earth. It had jungles, forest, deserts, frozen tundras. It also had a dangerous group of natives living undergroud. Although, the Zalbogians never attack without provocation. The new colony was a good distance away from the ruins where the Romulans lived. It was on another continent to be exact.

"Indeed we did..." He replied to Archer.

He walked towards a mixed group of Human, Romulan, and Andorian, working to construct a building.

"Excuse me." Ian said.

Over the loud hum of the machines, his voice could not be heard. Ian cupped his hands over his mouth and yelled.

"Excuse me!" He yelled, "I'm looking for governor Al-Firdos!"

The Andorian turned off her machine and pointed to a tent a few half constructed buildings away.

[Lord Borg]

-Elerra Prime, Colony-

Archer nodded to the Andorian as he followed Ian to the tent. "They certainly have a good work ethic, I didn't think they would be this far in the construction already."

[Founder]

-Elerra Prime, Colony-

Ian nodded his head, while walking to the large tent.

"Look around you," He said, "There must be 600+ people here. That isn't even including the Romulans. They all want to do their part to make a new home. There are now DMZs here. This planet will be theirs to live and mine to protect."

He stopped at the entrance of the tent and gently moved the flap aside. Ian took a tantive step inside to see it filled with five people. A large Mirak, two Romulans, a Betazoid, and the governor, a human male. They were all huddled over a table and a holographic image of the construction plans were shown.

"Excuse me," Ian announced, "I am captain Xavier and this is captain Archer."

Al-Firdos motioned for them to come in.

"Captains!" He said, "Enter, enter."

[Lord Borg]

-Elerra Prime, Colony-

Archer nodded to the Governer as he walked in. The plans, of what Archer could see looked impressive. It appeared the initial city was planed with growth and expansion in mind. This was good, not many were always able to do that, or if they were able to do that, they didn't. Which means the oldest parts of the earth colonies, especialy some of the older ones, were sprawled out and messy looking. "Mr. Governer," Archer started politely. "It's nice to meet you."

[Founder]

-Elerra Prime, Tent-

The governor bowed his head to Archer.

"In the name of the Prophet," He said, "Peace be with you."

Ian took a closer step and looked at the plans. The colony was going to be a decent size, large enough to expand if need be as well.

"Looks impressive," He said, "What your plans for the surrounding area? The local wild life?"

The Mirak answered the question without hesistance, as if he knew the answer already.

"Don't worry," He said in a guttaral tone, "We have that taken care of. We chose this spot because there aren't many animals that would be harmed by our being here."

Ian nodded his head, while staring at the image.

"Impressive..." He said, then looked at the governor, "Governor, can I speak to you in private sir?"

The elderly man nodded and walked out of the tent, motioning for Ian to follow. Ian didn't mind if Archer followed or not as he already knew the information. As soon as they were outside, Ian spoke.

"Sir," He said, "I know you've gained initial reports about the Zalbogians. I wanted to see if I can communicate with them."

"Ok....and?" The governor said, not catching the point.

Ian continued, "I wanted to know your reponse if the Zalbogians want us gone..."

Al-Firdos shook his head, "We won't be leaving captain, no matter what."

[Lord Borg]

-Elerra Prime, Colony-

Archer followed both men, but stayed quiet as they spoke. He sighed ever so quietly as possible. The man was stuborn. In a way, that was a good thing. They were after all, making the inital settelment of a colony, no matter what world you were on, if you were not stubborn, you would not survive. Archer steped foward, Ian would not be offended if he spoke, he was sure, hoped so anyways. "Mr. Governer, Sir? respectfully? The Zalbogians will not sit idely by and ask you to leave. He'll make you do so, dead or alive."

-Deep Space Guardian, T'Sa's Quarters-

T'Sa opened her eyes and blew out the candels. She was 'refreshed' so to speak. She stood and went to the replicator. "Vulcan Spice Tea, hot" The Replicator wined and lit up as a steaming cup materilized...

[Valathous]

~ Blake's Office, Security HQ, Deep Space Guardian ~

Blake sat there for a moment, mulling over the idea of letting someone else handle an investigation. She was right, it was a Bajoran affair but it was also a security matter and Blake liked to run security as efficiently as possible to ensure people like this didn't slip through the net.

He sighed though, knowing that Melina hadn't done much since being relieved of command after the Dicot incident. He smirked thinking about that, Dicot was no more. The fool. But that was a matter of the past now. Finally, Blake spoke up.

"Alright," Blake said to Melina, "I'll give you permission to run the investigation. But I'd like to receive reports as you go along so I know what's going on, as well. Also, don't be afraid to ask for help from myself or any other security officer. If it turns out to be more than what it appears, I'd hate to have the next crime scene revolve around you as the victim."

~ Security HQ, Deep Space Guardian ~

Dagenais smirked at the young, energetic security officer and used his flat hand in a 'down' motion.

"At ease, Lieutenant Stone," Dagenais said, "Welcome to Deep Space Guardian. I trust you have your transfer report ready for me so I can run it through the system and add you in?"

[Lord Borg]

~ Security HQ, Deep Space Guardian ~

"Of course, Sir..." Alicia reached into her bag and pulled out a PADD with her transfer information. "I belive everything you need should be in here." Alicia held out the PADD to Dagenais. "Thank you lieutenant, for the welcome..." Alicia smiled slightly. Meeting new people espicialy ones that were to be her bosses always was duanting at first. Hopefully, after a while, things wont be so...rigid.