Constant Vigilance
Posted on Monday November 30th, 2020 @ 9:24pm by Vaebn D'Varo
Mission:
The Forgotten Outpost
Location: Various
Romulan Free State Intergalactic Affairs Office, T’Met
“What do you mean I’ll be of better use off world?” Vaebn's voice echoed about the room. “I have been dedicated in my service to the Empire, and the Free State in its wake. I will not be shipped off to to some backwoods system under the guise of diplomacy.” It was clear that the young man understood the motives of his colleagues.
“Come now Vaebn, that’s not what’s happening.” The older man who served the Free State as Minister for Intergalactic Affairs shook his head dismissively.
“Don’t patronize me Rekhaw. Do not presume to tell me that what I know is happening is incorrect.” He stood. “I know what it looks like when someone is being pushed out.” He sighed and began to pace the room's length. “What exactly is It you all want me to do?”
“Play nice, possibly look into any resources that could be made available to us.” Rekhaw read from a datapad. “Explore options for viable colonies.”
Vaebn put his hands on his hips and furrowed his brow. That was asking a lot of such a backwoods sector of space. “Fine, but I’ll want to select my own staff.”
Rekhaw pursed his lips. “Agreed.”
Bridge, Free Romulan Ship Chula
Commander Denari stood from his command seat and peered around his bridge. Chula certainly was a fine ship. He was honoured to command such a fine ship, and on such a momentous mission.
"Status." He called from his elevated perch.
"Ambassador Vaebn is coming aboard now, and his cargo is being loaded." A Centurion called from his station at the fore section of the bridge. "We should be ready to depart in a few minutes Commander."
"Control signals clear to depart as soon as we are loaded sir." A female Romulan called from an aft station.
"Outstanding." Denari said. “Need to go meet the Ambassador. Carry on.” He made his way to the lift.
Transporter Room, Free Romulan Ship Chula
The warmth of the transporter beam enveloping Vaebn faded as quickly as it had come. He was left standing on the platform flanked by her Adjutant, D’Darra and a Security Officer,Major Reilan.
The Commanding Officer stepped forward. “Welcome aboard the Romulan Ship Chula, I am Commander Denari. We are pleased to have the honour of escorting you sir.”
The Ambassador stepped down from the transporter platform. “Yes, yes.” He said with a dismissive wave of his hand. “Let’s get this ship moving shall we?”
Denari was taken aback. “Yes sir, may I show you to your quarters.
“I think we can find them.” Vaebn said. “You just focus on getting the ship where I need to be.” His smile was patronizing.
“As you wish.” The Commander came to attention as the Ambassador led his companions past him.
Major Reilan stopped to speak with the Commander. “Don’t take it to heart. He's very much a business first type.” He continued his stride.
Denari sighed and made his return trip to the Bridge.
Bridge, Free Romulan Ship Chula
Commander Denari looked positively peeved as he returned to the Bridge. “Report.” He called, annoyance lacing his voice.
"We are loaded sir." came the Centurion's voice.
"Clear all moorings." Denari commanded, standing in the middle of the Bridge.
"Moorings cleared." came an unplaced voice in response.
"Set course to Federation Station, Deep Space 3." the Commander called out, returning to his seat and lowering himself into it slowly
"Course set."
"Activate cloak, and engage at Warp Six." Commander Denari looked rather defeated and tired.
Guest Quarters, Free Romulan Ship Chula
Vaebn entered the sparse cabin, and his eyes narrowed. "I had no idea we would have this type of luxury aboard." He spoke sarcastically.
D’Darra winced at the jab.
Lowering himself into a hard looking chair, Vaebn let out a sigh of relief. "Well we certainly have outdone ourselves." He mumbled trying to get comfortable.
A small chirp came from D’Darra’s bag. She reached in, producing a handheld communicator. The stout Romulan woman held it to her ear. A moment passed and she closed it. "We are underway now."
Suppressing a yawn, the Ambassador said, "Wake me for dinner will you?" His eyes scanned the small room for what could be used as a bed.
Another chirp erupted from the communicator, D’Darra listened a moment. "Your Excellency, Senator S'Khæl wishes to speak."
Vaebn sighed, pulling himself into a more appropriate seated position. "Put her through."
D’Darra clicked some controls on the wall viewscreen, and then bowed slightly before departing the room.
The screen filled with the image of a light haired Romulan woman.
"Ah, Vaebn, Glad I caught you." She said, with true sincerity.
"To what do I owe the pleasure?" Vaebn said with mock interest.
"Parting words, and a bit of advice." She spoke with a matron like calmness."Constant Vigilance." She said. "You need to be careful with these people." Her calmness switched to warning.
Vaebn nodded with exaggerated understanding.
The S’Khæl ‘s haughty facade returned. "Be sure to keep us updated. I don't need to remind you of the importance of this posting."
A scoff was all that the Ambassador could muster.
"Now get on your way." S’Khæl said. Waiting a few moments before terminating the channel.
Taking in the Senator's words, Vaebn stood and made his way over to the piss poor excuse for a bed.