ON
The briefing went on for another half hour as Itor described the
Enclave strengths. Svonn would occasionally glance around the table to
gauge his officer's reactions. The briefing was suddenly interrupted
by the comm.
"Lt. Railinton to Lt Svonn," came the voice of the officer
left in charge of the bridge.
"Proceed, Lieutenant," Svonn said evenly. The two guests were looking
around the ready room to see where the voice had come from.
"Sir, the first Enclave ship has been destroyed."
"By what or whom, Lieutenant," Svonn asked.
"By their superiors," Takaram said just loud enough for all to hear.
Everyone in the room turned to look at him.
"Lt. Takaram is correct, sir," Railinton confirmed. He was't a
real good judge of inflections in people's voices, but he thought he
detected a note of.. resentment, maybe, in the bridge officer's voice
as she had said the Romulan's name. "The ship was destroyed by the
incoming Enclave ship."
"It is the price of falure," Takaram simply stated. Svonn could see
Dr. Fyrstk starting to protest so he headed off any argument.
"Is there any sign the incoming Enclave ships have detected us,
Lieutenant Railinton," Svonn asked.
"Negative, captain. They are searching the area, but there is no
indication they know we are here."
"How is this possible," Itor asked. "Plainly we are here. How can
they not see..."
"Maintain current course and speed, Lieutenant," Svonn ordered the
bridge officer. "Also have two security people come to the ready room
to escort our guests to their quarters."
"Aye, sir."
"Sir," Svonn said loking to Itor. "I am going to have two offficers
escort you to the rest of your family. I would like some time to
discuss the mater with my officers in private."
"Of course, Captain," Itor replied. Gersin was about to protest but he
was quieted quickly by his father's grip on his arm. "Thank you for
your help."
The two aliens were escorted from the bridge. As the ready room doors
closed once again, Svonn looked to he senior officers.
"I am ready to hear your opinions."
OFF
Lt. Svonn
Acting Commanding Officer
Lt. Takaram
Tactical officer/Romulan commanding officer
USS Athena
