Post by jlgalloway99 on Jun 30, 2017 9:16:38 GMT -8
DFS Essex, War Room
Senator Candor of Andoria
Captain Marco Santiago
LTJG Dom Martinez
08/19/4566, 1900 hours
Dom made his way into the war room and to his surprise, there was only two personal in the room. One was the ship's captain and the other was an unknown man to Dom.
Dom was not sure what to make of the situation. He approached both men. He noticed the Captain started to walk to him. "Lieutenant Martinez, I want you to meet Senator Candor of Andoria" said the Captain.
"nice to meet you sir" simply said Dom. His response was short and to the point.
"its nice to place a face to a name" said Senator Candor.
Dom was not sure how to respond to that statement. "yes sir" simply replied Dom.
"I chose you for this assignment, personally, I believe if anyone can make this test pilot program work it will be you" said Senator Candor.
"I'm honored sir" said Dom, as he felt him sucking up a little to the senator. He hated this feeling. But his sister maybe onto something. But he prefer to do it his way, no sucking up, no politics.
"These next six months are crucial, I know you will make me proud, Lieutenant" said Senator Candor.
"Yes sir" said Dom.
Senator Candor, liked the fact that Dom was a man of few words. He allowed his actions to speak for him. He was a promising and upcoming DFS officer and sadly at this point, he was expendable.
"I know you need to depart, I wanted to meet you before you left the Essex, you're not an easy man to get a hold of" suggested Senator Candor. He was surprised that he did not cross paths over the past few days.
"I'm sorry about that sir, I was deep in the manuals and technical specifications of my next assignment, I was not notified you wanted to see me sir, for that I apologize sir" said Dom in a apologetic voice.
"It's understandable, I will let you get on with your preflight checks" said Senator Candor.
"Dismissed Lieutenant" said the Captain.
Dom left the area as quickly as he could. He walked over to his fighter and began preflight checklists. The scene starts to fade.
DFS Essex, War Room
Senator Candor of Andoria
Captain Marco Santiago
08/19/4566, 1900 hours
“He’s younger than I anticipated, Captain” said Candor, as he hoped that all of the generals, admirals of the DFS military were correct. This young Lieutenant was a rising a star.
“Lieutenant Martinez is a very capable officer” said Marco. He was impressed with the success that young man had achieved. War can either break you or make you shine, and in his case, he was shinning.
“I hope so, I need the Calton Initiative Bill to pass, we need more core worlds to resign the Federation charter” suggested Candor. The room was pretty empty, only the two of them, were in the room.
“Surprised more corps worlds did not rejoin when President Carian came into office, a lot of people are calling her a hero” said Marco.
“You don’t think she is” asked Candor? The tone of Marco was aggressive and did not sound like he was a supporter of the current president. This annoyed Candor a little. He believed in their president. He hoped a military commander would believe in her as well.
“I believe the people made her a hero, she is a great officer and respect her for that, and I would support her in any campaign, however the people are looking for a messiah like person, and the president is the unfortunate victim” suggested Marco.
“She seize the power, like a great warrior would do Captain” suggested Candor.
“I have served with the President in the past, she is not power hungry” said Marco.
“She has the power now, let’s hope she welds it well” said Candor.
“Let's hope” simply replied Marco.
“How long till the Essex, arrives in the Mempa Sector” asked Candor, he needed time to rest and prepare for his meeting with the Memporian Ambassador.
“We can reach the mempa sector by tomorrow morning” said Marco.
“It’s been a long day Captain, I am going to go back to my quarters to rest, if you need anything please reach out to my assistant Mishel” asked Candor.
“Of course Senator” said Marco, as he went on “The Essex will break orbit in the morning, get some rest” suggested Marco.
“Good Evening Captain” said Candor as he left the war room and headed to his personal quarters. He wanted to retire his temporary quarters and get some much needed rest.
DFS Essex, Personal Quarters
Senator Sarah Gillman-Sanchez
August 19, 4566, 21:15 hours
Sarah was reading the memos that were sent to her quarters for the meeting, she was having several hours when her communicator beeped. She hit her badge and said, “Sanchez!” It was Mable. “Sarah, Would you like to come over to ten forward for a couple of drinks and maybe catch up a bit.”
Sarah looked at her pad. It was usually very hard to say know to Mable. She sighed, “I’ll be there in ten. Sanchez out!” She dropped the pad on her desk walked over to the mirror where she checked her hair for a bit. It was hard being on the same ship as the sister of the man she left. What could they possibly catch up about.
Sarah got up feeling somewhat satisfied about her appearance and grabbed the scarf on her bed and looked at it. She threw it on the bed and then just put on her shoes and walked out of her room. She never thought about Dom for awhile, not since she got married, her new job. Not until she got the message she got the message she was being ferried by Mable. And now they would be talking about Dom again. Maybe. Sarah just had no idea what to say, and all of a sudden she didn’t how if she as suppose to feel guilty, even though they ended it on mutual ground.
DFS Essex ~ Ten Forward Bar and Grill
Lieutenant Junior Grade Dom Martinez
Senator Sarah Gillam-Sanchez
August 19, 4566 ~ 2130 hours
Dom walked into Ten Forward, it was strange being on a ship he was not assigned too, he was gazing with his eyes to find his sister. He was not really comfortable with being around of crew. He also did not want to draw attention to himself.
Dom walked into the room and walked right by Sarah. He was not looking for her at the moment, he was waiting for his support center, his sister the one he reached out too. Dom had no idea at this moment that his sister was intentionally standing him up.
Dom stood a few feet from Sarah, he was looking for his sister when he made eye contact with Sarah, his heart sank, he was speechless, he was a deer locked on the headlights of a moving car. His emotions were overwhelming. He stood there all silent.
The memories of Sarah started to pour over him. How many times did he see her sitting waiting for him to arrive. Now here she was waiting for him to arrive. Or was she. It was hard to tell, his emotions were getting the best of him, he was to distracted to think clearly at this very moment.
Say something you idiot, thought Dom as his mind was screaming out at him. Dom was just standing there, frozen with the sudden rush of emotions pouring out of him. He wondered how Sarah felt at this very moment as well. His body felt like a statue, his breath was deepened, his eyes were wide open, he felt scared and excited all in one. How did she still have this control over him?
Sarah walked into ten forward and walked over to the bar. She ordered a drink and sat down at a nearby table to wait for Mable. Not 5 minutes later someone walked in. She looked up to cross eyes with Dom. For a moment everything around seemed to fall silent. She quickly regained herself and got up and walked to him. “Dom, hi, I didn’t know you were here.” She hoped that would break the ice a little.
Dom was not sure what to say first, there was so much to say, but where to start, what to say first? He was still a deer caught in the headlights. Dom quickly glanced at Sarah, she looked amazing, even more than ever. That was hard to believe, because she was a lovely lady seven years ago. There was an awkward silence between, all on Dom’s part. He was scared, not sure what to say.
He was not sure, damn it man, get your shit together, thought Dom. His heart sank a little and he felt very heavy. As he stood there in silence. All Dom could think was, where in the hell was Mable to break up the awkward silence.
He focused quickly on Mable, he needed to gather his composure. “Mable did not tell you, that I was stopping by” asked Dom, his voice was a little squeaky with excitement. This was the moment he was waiting for, but he felt that he was already ruining the moment.
Dom thought he sounded like a young man going through puberty with a squeaky voice.
“Eh… no she wanted a drink and catch up.” Said Sarah. She didn’t know why he was acting so nervous. She followed and looked around for Mable, but she didn’t see her. She turned to Dom again, “So, would you like a drink?”
Would he like a drink, ya he would. This was a very intense moment for him. It was clear his sister set them up to talk. He thought to himself he would have to kill her, but thank her first. This was not the way he wanted to do this, he wanted his sister to make the approach for him.
But it was clear his sister was not showing up. He was alone and he was facing his biggest regret, alone and without the aid of a loved one. Sometimes in live, you have to face things on your own. Dom looked into her deep brown eyes as she asked the question, lost in her trance he said “yes”. He was not saying much, but it was a start.
Dom tried not to over stare at her direction, her face had hardly aged at all, she looked a little older but very attractive. Dom was very impressed at the woman she had become. Dom quickly saw an open table. He walked towards the chairs and motioned with his hand. He pulled the chair out for her.
Sarah looked to him and the table. She just smiled a bit nervous. She slowly walked over the table. She looked at him and then slowly turned around and sat down. She put her glass down on the table. She looked at him as he walked over to sit across from her.
Dom was very nervous as he took a seat across from her. Now he had a valid reason to stare in her direction. She was a lovely site, but he did not come tonight to admire her beauty, he came here to get his damn sanity back.
A waiter came over to their table “whatcha havin darling” asked the waitress.
Dom looked at her and then said “do you have any real drinks not that synthol” asked Dom.
“Andorian Ale” said the waitress with a grin.
“I’ll take one of those please” said Dom. He needed a drink to take the edge off.
“Sure thing darling” said the Waitress as she left.
Dom kept his hands at the table’s edge, more than anything in the world, he wanted to reach across and grab her soft delicate hands, that he remembered from seven years ago.
Dom wondered what was going through her mind, was she as just as nervous as he was. “I don’t think Mable’s coming” said Dom with a nervous grin.
Sarah nodded as she curled her lips. “I was beginning to get that feeling.” She sighed. “So how have you been?” She was not sure if she was looking for an answer, but she couldn’t bare the silence.
Dom noticed her hands were at the edge of the table as well, but he could clearly see her wedding ring. Was she trying to send him a message without saying it. He hoped he was not making her feel as comfortable as he was.
Dom thought to himse. Say what you came to say, you chicken shit. Dom needed to resolve his emotional demons and soon.
“Honestly” asked Dom, as he waited for Sarah to say something, this was a classic stalling technique.
Sarah noticed him looking at her hands and saw him noticing the ring. She nervously pulled her hand up and put her other hand on it. “Yea, sure..” She said.
“Lost, but just recently” said Dom, as he dropped how he felt sort of. He just left the part of her being the reason why he felt lost. Now it was really in her court, if she wanted to down this road or look for an easy cop out.
She nodded with uneasy smile. “I see.” She moved uneasy with her hands. She wasn’t sure if she wanted to hear. She wasn’t sure how things would change. She needed to stay focused. “Listen, Dom, I really don’t know what we were suppose to do here.”
Dom felt a little devastated by her tone. It was the not the response he wanted but it was a response he was expecting. How only had a few seconds to think, how to respond to her concerns.
Dom had noticed that Sarah put her hand over her wedding band. Why did she do that, what did it mean? Why was he focusing on this small gesture. Maybe she did it to make him feel better. Dom hated not knowing. There was so much that Dom wanted to say to her, but what was appropriate to say, what was not?
Dom looked at her hands, they were a little defensive, she use to rub her fingers against her knuckles, when she was nervous. Before Dom could speak the waitress came back.
“Here you go darlin” said the waitress as she placed the andorian ale in front of him. Dom wanted to quickly reach for the drink, he knew that Sarah was waiting for a response.
Dom looked briefly at the waitress. “Thank you” said Dom as he handed her his credit chip card, and he said “keep the tab open” said Dom with a smile. He then returned his gaze back to Sarah. The waitress left the table, she noticed that Sarah’s drink was still full.
Dom noticed she looked a little nervous, but he wondered if she was just as lost as him? It had been seven years since they last spoke. Dom had believed then they had said their goodbyes. But it was clear to him now, that he did not. But he can’t erase the past seven years. Time can not heal all wounds, and Dom knew that.
Dom sat directly across from Sarah, this was that critical moment where either they would talk and get resolution or this is the moment where things get awkward and Sarah never talked to Dom again. He was digging deep in his thoughts on what to say next? What do you tell to the woman that you still care for and tell her that you never got over her and the separation is killing him inside?
Dom wanted to sooth her nervous rubbing of her knuckles by taking her hand, however given this situation it would be inappropriate of him to do soo.
Dom thought back to the last time they ever spoke. Dom told her that they were going to be fine, they had their whole lives to live, but his felt empty and now full of regret, and here is the lady that he let go. He had no right to confront her, but here he was, confronting her. Not for her benefit, but for his. This was a real jerkish move on his part.
He was not trying to hurt Sarah or stir up old emotions. He was tired of hurting and his feelings needed to be addressed. But he needed to be careful to be respectful to her feelings as well. Dom only hoped she was ready to talk.
Dom saw Sarah sitting, she was wearing a pleasing outfit, which triggered his memory of that black dress she wore during that special night. Dom’s mind was racing with past images of her and him at the school final dance the prom. They broke up the day after. They made that prom the most special night of their lives. Dom went all out on her, and she returned the favor by making the most of the night. It was a very special night for him and for her. A great way to end their relationship.
Dom wanted to see her warming smile, he hated seeing her nervous smile, despite the fact any look from Sarah, was admiring and irresistible to him. Dom was lost in a the moment that only lasted a few seconds.
But in those few seconds, he was still dancing with Sarah, they were still at prom. He was caught up on memory, a memory he almost did not want to leave, but it was only a memory and he was now with her in this very moment. He had a chance to make a new memory.
He wanted to ask her so desperately, if she ever thought of him, again he was hesitant to ask. Sarah was now married, happily as far as he knew. In human nature it was not always socially polite to ask questions that make us feel uncomfortable.
Life so much simpler that night, thought Dom as his mind wandered back to prom, it was the last time he was happy. Dom has had a pretty good career in the D.F.S., but his career only feels partially complete. For a long time, he was not sure why. Now recently it was becoming clear why. He had no one to share the accomplishments with it.
No one to talk too, and it was all his fault, none of it was Sarah. It was all his his fault, Dom never imagined it, until it was gone, that Dom felt that Sarah was a his soulmate. But she was now gone, even though she was sitting across from him.
Dom needed to play this cool, keep his emotions in check, get her to be more responsive to him. Things were awkward between them at the moment. He finally spoke out, he hoped it was the right thing to say.
“I was hoping we could talk, I am not expecting anything more than that” said Dom hoping that Sarah, liked his response, granted he was stalling on what he had to tell her. “Mable was suppose to meet us hear, so this would not be so awkward” said Dom as he tried to smile, it was hard. His feelings were now shared with her, and he was vulnerable. He hated this feeling. He was trying to joke around the woman he onced loved, but still cared deeply for.
Sarah took up her glass and then put it back down. “Well,” She began, “We are adults, so I am pretty sure whatever it is we can work this out. No harm in talking right?” She finally picked up her glass and took a sip from it.
Dom smiled, mainly because she did. He loved to see her smile. He had imagined her smiling for so long in his memories, but to see a smile on her face was very gratifying. “Ya, no harm in talking” said Dom as he reached over for his andorian ale and took a sip. The drink was very potent. Dom felt himself stalling again.
He debated on changing the topic from him and redirect it back on her. Normally this is what he would do if he was talking to anyone else, but this was different. This situation in his mind and with his heart, needed to be resolved.
“I’m lost because, I wanted to see you, I know we talked in the past about breaking all ties, but honestly I missed you” said Dom as he was regretting not having Mable here. It would have been less awkward thought Dom. He as he felt his heart tighten, he was very nervous. This was very hard for him to say. Sometimes the hardest things in life to say are not always the easiest! He placed his feelings out, in a way hopefully, Sarah would be perceptive too.
Sarah put her drink down. She put her drink down. She opened her mouth to say something. She just ended up laughing a bit nervous. Finally she said, “Sorry, I...I don’t know what to say. To be honest I haven’t thought about you for a while. Been so busy...work...getting married...Maybe...it’s been harder than I thought. “
“Sounds like it, for you” said Dom. He was okay with the fact that she moved on, he just needed to move on himself. “I am very happy for you, I am” said Dom as he tried to reassure himself. It was hard, a part of him was happy, a bigger part of him was sad. He was going through an emotional struggle.
Sarah put her hand on Dom’s hand. We had something special back then, it’s not something you just walk away from. Just try to….” she sighed. “Be open for new possibilities..” She looked at her ring. She knew she wasn’t happy where she was at, but it was business. And her mother taught business was business. She looked back up at him and just smiled.
Dom felt the soft skin of Sarah’s hand touch his, he felt a little awkward and yet soothing and somewhat familiar. He really liked hearing that she agreed they had something special. He wanted to grab her hand, but he did not want to push to strong.
“We said that to each other seven years ago, we placed our careers ahead of our feelings, my superiors say I am on a fast track to getting my own ship, but I will share this with you, without someone to share your feelings with, it seems ½ empty. I am happy you found love and are able to share your success with your husband, I choose to marry the service in a way, so you are the closest thing I had to a best friend” said Dom.
“I miss being your friend” said Dom. He really did not have anyone to share the news with. Dom was not as forth coming or open with his fellow shipmates, he heard what Sarah said about being open to new possibilities. Where would he even begin, he sat in his chair, debating on another sip from his andorian ale.
Sarah took her drink and downed it all at once. “Anytime…” She said as she motioned to the waitress for another drink. “Love...heh… I guess. It’s all been for this career. Not sure if love had anything to do with it.” She took another sip as soon as the drink touched the table.
“You did not marry for love” asked Dom, he was a little shocked. But on the same token, he understood her passion for politics. He knew that she had a real passion for changing the universe, and he believed she could.
She was so much stronger than him, and he was a little envious of that. Dom is not sure if he would marry out of love, there would have to be a big political reason, for him to even consider it. “My apologies, that was rude of me, please don’t answer that” said Dom. It was not his place to judge her.
“Let’s have a toast” said Dom as he slid his hand away from her’s. “To our careers” said Dom as he raised his glass on andorian ale.
“Here here!” Said Sarah. As she hit his glass with hers. She took another sip. “This is nice. I am glad to have a friend like you.”
Dom grinned as he grabbed his drink and slammed it. Hell with it thought, let's get hammered. He knew he needed to loosen up, he was picking up on the cue from Sarah. The waitress came over to the table again. With a big grin.
“More like it, you two we depressing to look at” stated the waitress.
“Well let’s fix that” said Dom with a grin, as he looked to waitress and then to Sarah.
“What you got in mind darlin” asked the waitress.
“We need loud music, where is the nightclub feel to this place” asked Dom.
“You want to party it up, coming up” said the waitress, as she walked over to the bar and turned on edgy music, the lights lowered and people started to cheer a few got up and started to dance.
The waitress walked back over to their table. “should I keep the rounds coming”
“Oh hell ya” said Dom as she placed two more drinks on the table and walked away. He did not care that her comment was a little negative. He was going to have a great time, even if it killed him or a major hangover in the morning.
Dom felt the drink burning down his throat. He was not hard core drinker. He assumed Sarah as a politician probably had a few drinking sessions in her past, all in the name of her career. “To friendship” said Dom as he clicked his glass to her’s and took a decent swig of the andorian ale.
Sarah was laughing “Wow, you’re going all out.” She downed another glass. She got up. “Lets party like we did at the prom!” She grabbed his hand and pulled him up.
“Okay a little fast” said Dom with a teasing tone. “Shouldn’t we least wait” asked Dom, he did not know if her husband was on the ship. He did not know, that he was not. As much as he wanted to get on the floor, he wanted to build up a little more courage.
Knowing Sarah the way he did, he doubt she would let him get away with that. When she wanted to dance, they were going to dance. Dom grabbed another sip, as he reached down to drink and slammed it down.
“Oh come on, Dom,”Said Sarah.” Why wait? Wait for what?”
She dragged him out to the floor, he was looking at his table as the waitress placed another round at the table. He his only concern now was, if her husband was going to stop by, but why was he not worried about this earlier when they embracing each other's hands?
“Is this wise” asked Dom in concerned tone.
Sarah smiled. “Don’t worry, live a little!” She put her arms around his shoulders. “Tomorrow isn’t promised, and it’s just a dance.”
“Right til you're husband picks a fight with me out here on the dance floor” said Dom. His tone was not so playful. He kept a small separation between their bodies, he was trying to be more respectful in nature.
“He’s not even on the ship. I am sure he is having fun right now as well. I just don’t know what her name is this time.” Sarah laughed as she put her hands on his back and pulled him against her.
Their bodies embraced, Dom thought it was a little forward but he would be lying if he said he did not like it. He looked straight into her eyes and could tell that she wanted to play, who was he to deny her, plus he did not want too.
The beat picked up on the floor. “Do you remember this” asked Dom as he twirled Sarah from his arms and began to do a more intimate dance form. Dom started to salsa dance with her. He wanted to see if she would let him. She wanted to dance closely, well this was their chance to do dance real close.
“Yes….” She followed his moves closely. “Good times..” she said. She hadn’t felt this loose in a while. She just hadn’t the right person to do it with.
The two them danced like they were one, it was surprising that neither of them were missing a beat. Sarah and Dom were both twirling around to the beat, with Dom slightly leading the dance movies between them. For a moment nothing mattered, he was happy and she appeared to be happy, he felt like a kid again.
The moment was amazing thought Dom. They continued to dance for a few more minutes, the song’s beat started to sift, and the salsa style was not going to work with the new beat. He was also a little thirsty, and he had a fresh drink at their table.
“I’m a little thirsty” suggested Dom.
Sarah nodded. “Yes, I could use a drink myself.” She walked back to the table and sat down. She waved her hands to cool down. “We still got it.” She brushed her hair back. “Something with ice I think.” Said Sarah.
The waitress walked up, Dom noticed her coming. He slammed his drink down fast, again his throat burned a little from the sensation.
“Another round of ale, darlin” asked the waitress as she looked to Sarah.
“Scotch with ice please.” Sarah said.
“And for you darlin” asked the waitress.
“I’ll have the same” suggested Dom with a grim. As he started to perspire a little. He was wearing cologne and deodorant so he was okay. He thought Sarah looked amazing that black skin tight dress of her’s very flattering.
Sarah bend over and took of her shoes. “Wow, I am almost beat. Haven’t had this much fun in ages. Political parties is a lot of boos, and not much moves. If you want some stiff people, that’s where you should go.” She leaned over to Dom. “Thanks.”
“Not a problem” said Dom, as noticed the waitress approaching them. Man she was fast.
The waitress came back with two scotches on the rocks. She placed them on the table. Sarah was still leaned into the seat, he tried not look at the obvious in front of him. Her small frame was a nice and she had a great body with great features. Dom grabbed his drink and raised it for a toast.
“Some things never change, you're still one hell of dancer” in a teasing voice said Dom. She was still able to move her body and make it look classy with a hint of sexiness. He raised his glass and clanged it against hers. He took a sip, he thought to himself, wow this drink was stronger! He hoped he did not regret going to a stronger drink.
Sarah drank the scotch as well. “Yea..and some things do.” She looked in the glass. “And something never do.” She put her glass down. “So now what?”
“I was hoping to dance the night away” said Dom sounding a little sappy. It could be the three drinks talking but he was feeling really good right now. This was the perfect moment for him and he did not want the night to end.
“Sounds like a plan.” Sarah was feeling it too. “Let’s do it then.”
Dom grabbed her by the hand and gently walked her back to the dance floor by this time the beat changed to something he could work with and the two of the started to dance again. The of them were dancing as one, he was being very respectful in the dance by keeping his hands in appropriate places every time she twirled by him he would reposition her wither by their fingers or by her waist line, making sure to pay close attention to where he was placing his hands.
They danced for a while. Dom did not want the night to come to an end. He was having way to much fun. Sarah’s moves were very stimulating for him and probably for the small audience that started to watch the young senator dancing with some officer on the dance floor.
They had drawn a small crowd. Dom did not mind the attention, but he wondered if she did. He leaned in closer to speak to her.
“Is this normal” asked Dom. He was not use to anyone paying attention to him, but then again he did not dance on a regular basis.
Sarah looked around a bit. “They are just looking for sensation. Let’s try not to leave together in the same direction.”
The danced for a a few more songs. The man controlling the music announced that he would be slowing down the music down for the last two song. The night was coming to an end. Dom could not believe it was already 2am.
“I’ve had a great night” said Dom, as he started to walk to his table. He did not know if it would be appropriate for them to slow dance, despite the fact they had been doing the salsa and other sexually arousing forms of dancing.
Sarah followed. She picked up her shoes looking all flushed and tired. “Well, I think this is my cue to go.” She smiled. “I had a great time, thank you, Dom.” She leaned over and kissed him on the cheek and then threw the shoes over her shoulders and walked away.
Dom had a big smile on his face, he was not expecting a kiss on the cheek. And he loved how she walked with a little soul in her step, she was teasing him with her curves and he deserved it, the whole night was tension release, he could tell that she was also happy with this night. He hoped that Sarah would do the classic look over her shoulder bit before leaving ten forward.
Even though she did not turn around, he felt a connection. At least they were friends again! That mattered to him. He felt a big sigh of relief pour over him. So much for talking the night away,
the ended up dancing the night away. This night has changed him, and he knew it.
DFS Essex, Flight Deck Carrier
Conference Room 14
August 20, 4566,
09:00 hours
Senator Candor of Andoria and Senator Sarah Gillman we're enroute to the Mempa Sector the Memporian Ambassador proclaimed his people were not going to support the Calton Initiative, which was a bill that allowed for smaller ships like the escorts, destroyers, corvettes of the federation to be retrofitted with a minimum of 5 fighters to help aid in the war against the FSF.
Candor and Sarah were booking passage on the DFS Essex.
The needed to focus on getting more support from the member worlds of the Federation. Candor was really was focused on getting his bill passed, mainly because he was the one that initially wrote up the bill with the assistance of Bill Carton, a lead engineer in research and development.
Sarah was one of the junior senators assigned to oversee the bill, and to assist her boss Senator Candor. The two of them have been working in a professional manner only to get this bill passed.
Candor can not believe how many boneheads in the federation council fought this proposal from even getting a test trial run. His short temper was enraged that fellow council members would rather sacrifice lives instead of working on ways to protect lives.
Candor remembered one of the ambassadors saying that the bill was a waste of time. It was not productive way to spending resources, it would take to long to refit the fleet and they could not afford to waste the time.
Candor would argue that it was not a waste of time, he strongly believed the federation council owed its military fleet upgraded refits and fighters. They were asking good people to put their lives on the line, with inadequate technologies.
In war, the enemies are always looking for weaknesses. Candor was trying to limit any weaknesses from the federation military fleet. He had no control over starfleet’s exploration division, nor did he care too.
The Essex was finally continuing with its mission to the Mempa System. Candor was not very happy with the delay. But the delay did give him the chance to meet the man that would be test piloting his new program. Candor was still not sure if Domingo Ramon Martinez-Colon was the right choice, mainly because of his rank, he was only a Lieutenant Junior Grade.
But he came highly recommended by the DFS Military, as an eager, dedicated officer to the war effort. Candor was taking a chance, but he was advised by the military advisors that Lieutenant Martinez was the man to get the job done. So he was taking a chance with him.
Despite his rank, Candor thought the man was well mannered enough. His service recorded was pretty remarkable and he was a decent pilot, not the top shooter but decent.
Candor and Sarah had already entered the conference room, they had a few junior staff aids with them. He looked over to Mishel, one of his diplomatic aids. “Attache, where are the latest files regarding the Lavie upgrades” asked Candor as he shuffled through the data pads on the table.
Mishel gave him a pad from his side of the table. “Thanks” said Candor as he began to pour through the data. “This is unacceptable” yelled out Candor in an aggressive tone. He went on to say “the upgrades were suppose to be completed yesterday, what was the delay” demanded Candor.
“According to the dockmaster, he was not at liberty to discuss repairs with me, I am not a member of the Lavie’s senior staff” suggested Mishel.
“Didn’t Captain Layton send over a updated repair manifest list” asked Candor.
“Yes sir” said Mishel as she dug through the stack and then handed him a pad. “This one sir” said Mishel.
Candor did not say thanks in response he took the pad and began to read it over. The damage to the ship was more severe than first lead on by the DFS Command. If Candor would have known this he would have chosen another ship and officer to test pilot the program.
“This delay is not going to aid us with the Memporian Ambassador, no doubt he will use this as an excuse not to support our bill” said Andor as he looked to Sarah, he was also annoyed that the Memporian Ambassador was back on his home world for the next two weeks. So he had to go to the Mempa sector to present his case in person.
“It’s easier for the corps worlds not being attacked at the moment to become a little pacifist, they are gambling on the hope that FSF will not attack them if they are provoked, when in reality the FSF will come for them eventually” pointed out Sarah.
She took a breath and went on “the upgrades to the Lavie, will be complete, and if anyone can make the program work, Lieutenant Martinez can” said Sarah.
“Perhaps, but let's face facts after the so called coup d'état of the FSF and the falling of the Federation Council, it will not be easy to convince former members to rejoin a fragile alliance, these days truly feel like the early days of the Federation” said Candor.
“We need to be more aggressive in our policies, the military can not only consist of the earthlings protecting the backs of the entire federation, we need change, member worlds needs to learn to protect themselves and provide support to this federation before another superior force comes in and takes over their worlds” pointed out Candor.
“If humanity as a whole is going to survive we need toughen up and protect our borders and stop playing games, the Memporian Ambassador, knows damn well joining the federation, and sharing resources is there only chance for survival” suggested Candor as he wondered what Sarah thought?
“We are stronger when we are united, that is agreeable, but convincing an ambassador to risk the life of his people on the possibility he could be attack, will not be easy sell, any action they take in support of us, makes them a potential target, right now the Memporian Government can not defend itself against a counter act, we do not have enough loyal ships that we can trust to assist in their defense” said Sarah, she knew they needed to build more vessels, and quickly.
“The war with the FSF is not over, but these cowards fear and hide back home, hoping the military can defeat them” proclaimed Candor, the thought of cowards, really pissed Candor off. He believe that everyone needed to do their part in order to protect the ideals and the dreams of the Federation.
“I strongly suggest, we try a different approach, challenging his honor will more than likely turn him against our cause” said Sarah.
“They are weak, as the klingons would say, without honor, time for them to step up and help with this war” Candor growled a little “only together are we strong enough to crush this rebellion and try to strive to reach a perfect utopian society again” said Candor as he began to remember in the history of the Federation, for a short period of time they had it.. For a very short time there was peace in the Federation and the galaxy.
“Very true, but at the moment, the only concern for the Memporian people is their homeworld not our beloved Federation” suggested Sarah, she was not found of the idea that the member worlds left the Federation so easily when things got rough.
“What would you suggest Senator” asked Candor as he decided he would hear her out.
“A more direct appeal to their humanity” suggested Sarah as she went on to say “as I said earlier, they have nothing to gain in this war, except being the next potential target of the FSF, we need to show the ambassador if they can not afford to sit around and be attacked, encourage them to build up defenses, protect themselves, build starships of their own if they do not want our support, we will convince them they are stronger with us, then they are on their own” suggested Sarah as a possible course of action.
“We will seem weak” pointed out Candor.
“Spin that on them, make him feel weak and alone if they do not assist us in this war, suggest they will be alone if the FSF attacks them” pointed out Sarah.
“Not a bad strategy” suggested Candor.
“The ambassador will meet with us at 1400 hours let's go over strategy” said Sarah as the scene fades.
DFS Essex, Flight Deck Carrier
Conference Room 14
August 20, 4566,
14:00 hours
Frel the ambassador of the Memporian Government walked into the modest size conference room. He looked around. “These military vessels lack a certain flair, I am use too” started off Frel with a chip on his shoulder type tone to his voice.
“They do indeed Mr Ambassador” said Sarah as she continued “please join us at the table” asked Sarah in a polite tone.
Frel took a seat at the table. One of the senators aid’s pour a glass of water for the ambassador and placed it front of the ambassador. “I know why you have come” flat out said Frel, as he went on, “my government is not convinced the military can protect us, we feel the only way to remain safe it to stay out of the fighting” pointed out Frel.
“The only way to stay safe Mr. Ambassador is to build a big enough fleet to counter any potential fleet that may try to invade your space” said Candor, he hoped Sarah’s strategy was going to work.
“The military will protect us” insisted Frel.
“The Federation Military can only support worlds that support the Federation, we have to look out for our best interests and protect key resources, we are spread pretty thin and can not promise the safety of former worlds that do not provide any resources to assist us in this way” said Candor, he was on a roll.
“That’s not fair Senator” yelled out Frel.
“War is not fair, we are spread thin, Mr. Ambassador, this war is not going well for us, if we lose, we hope you can build up a strong enough defense to at least attempt to stalemate the FSF or get them to consider a non aggression pact treaty” suggested Candor.
"We are creating new plans and this bill is the first step to getting that done, we are currently retrofitting our ships to hopefully slow down the enemy long enough to build new technologies and ships to help fight the FSF” pointed out Sarah.
“This bill is no small favor you're asking” suggested Frel. The bill was asking for logistical support and personal support, each world that signed the bill would agree to resign with the Federation and take a stand against the FSF.
“In war this is no such thing as a small favor, it’s life and death Mr. Ambassador, do you honestly think the FSF is going to ignore this planet forever” asked Candor.
“This planet is a gold mine in minerals” pointed out Sarah.
“They will seize it by force, you can not afford to wait for that” suggested Candor.
“Support President Carian, we will stop the FSF once and forall” said Sarah.
“Under the orders of the president, we are building a new fleet, a fleet to challenge the FSF and defeat them, but we need your help, we need your resources, we need you and your people, under that evil tyrant Mr. Maximus there is no chance at a perfect utopian society” said Candor.
“I will talk to my government, any action we take in favor of you, puts us on the front lines, how will you protect us” asked Frel, he hated the fact he was considering this alliance because he did not want Maximus forces ie the FSF invading his world, he knew deep down that was a possibility. Now he needed to convince his government of that.
“We will send ships and help you bolster your defenses around the homeworld” said Candor.
“I reach out to you in a couple of hours, I need to return to the state building down on Mempa Prime” said Frel.
“My aid, Mishel will escort you to the transporter room” said Candor.
“Good day senators” said Frel as he left the conference room.
DFS Essex, Flight Deck Carrier
Conference Room 14
August 20, 4566,
15:00 hours
Captain Marco Santiago walked into the conference room. This got attention of Sarah and Candor. He walked up to the table where the senators were sitting at, his entrance was a distraction. “Ambassador Frel asked for your presents at the state capital, he has also asked me and my first officer to accompany you” said Marco.
“That was quick” said Candor as he looked to Sarah and then over to Marco.
“Did he request a particular time, Captain” asked Candor.
“1900 hours for dinner” said Marco.
“That's less than two hours, I have a bad feeling about this” suggested Sarah. Normally a prime minister would take hours, sometimes even days to make a big important decision.
This prime minister took less than a few minutes to make a decision.
“Perhaps he sees reason” suggested Candor.
“Perhaps he already made up his mind prior to our arrival” suggested Sarah.
“That seems more than likely” said Marco.
Senator Candor of Andoria
Senator Sarah Gillman-Sanchez of Earth 2
Captain Marco Santiago, CO USS Essex
State Building, Mempa Homeworld
Great Hall of Commerce, State’s Room 1
Sarah, Candor and Marco beamed down at the predetermined location. They were greeted by a few aids and were asked to follow them to the states room to meet Ambassador Frel and Prime Minister Vrel.
Sarah had been brushing up on Mempa cultural traditions. She was coaching Candor on how to prepare to meet the Prime Minister. The walk to the state’s room was a short walk. And Sarah watched Candor walk over to the prime minister.
He placed his hands out in front of him, palms side open. “I greet you on behalf of the newly formed Federation, with my palms open, seeking an audience with his excellency” asked Candor. He could not believe this ass backwards society had bs rituals like this to attend too.
Vrel placed his hands over Candors and gripped onto them. He smiled as he said “I greet you with my palms open, together let’s seal our friendship and talk at the table” suggested Vrel as he let go of Candor’s arm.
Candor, Sarah and Marco were escorted to some chairs. “Prime Minister I would like to introduce to you, Senator Sarah Gillam of Earth 2 and Captain Marco Santiago of the DFS Essex” said Candor,
“I am honored” said Vrel. “Now that formalities are out of the way, let’s feast together” suggested Vrel, as he motioned for the waiters to enter the states room.
Candor noticed a meal that resembled andorian cuisine, and Sarah and Marco noticed their meals resembled cuisines from their homeworld as well. Candor that it was a nice gesture on the part of the prime minister. After the plates were brought out, drinks were provided and a row of waiters all left the room.
Sarah remembered and waited for Vrel to take the first bite before the others joined in and started to consume the food that was prepared for them. The plates were satisfactory and a nice gesture though Sarah.
“Ambassador Frel advised me of your request” said Vrel, as he went straight to business after taking a few bites off of his plate.
“The Memporian Government your excellency, could really benefit from this new bill and can really benefit from this newly formed federation” suggested Candor.
“I have been briefed on the fairy tale vision that you're newly elected war hero president has been preaching to your people” suggested Vrel, he was trying to see if he could spark an emotional response from Candor.
“The Memporian Government has every right to be skeptical, but our President is sincere and genuine in her belief, thirty five worlds have already joined the Federation” pointed out Sarah.
“What did they have to surrender in order to join you're federation” asked Frel.
“This is a mutual cooperation pact, not a dictatorship, Mr Ambassador” said Candor as he decided to answer the question. “We share resources, share technology and defend our border, you have seen protect spheres we are starting to make a difference, with your help we can grow and expand more” suggested Candor.
“Big words, words that have been repeated in the past, history teached my people, that anyone promises you grand gestures, usually tends to be a snake in the garden” flat out said Frel.
“That was not appropriate, Frel” said Vrel in a scolding tone. “Please forgive my friend, I have no doubt you're intentions are clear, but as you can see by this outburst, my people are a little resistant to change” suggested Vrel.
“I was hesitant as well, my people are not the shining beacon of hope, most races in the galaxy hate us or fear my people for good reason, but I stand before you, seeking a new way a better way, war and conflict can not be the only way” said Sarah.
“What has your president done that merits you're blind faith in her” asked Frel.
“She brought peace, she rallied 35 worlds to forming a new utopian, a new society, a new way to look at life in the galaxy, under her leadership, I believe we can mold the universe and blaze a new path a path of peace and prosperity” suggested Candor.
“In theory that sounds nice, but if we join you're federation, we will opening the eyes of the Faith Services Fleet, they will attack us, at the moment they ignore us, they do not see us, why would we risk our people to join a new fragile cooperation an alliance” asked Vrel.
“Do not be fooled Prime Minister, they are coming for you” said Candor.
“You're military will come to our aid, they have in the past” suggested Frel, with a sense of pride in his tone. They needed the memporian resources and they were not really in a position to bargain for it. They believed they had direct influence over the military.
“The Military has been taken a lot of losses, we had to pull back our forces to the spheres for protection while we rebuild, its partially why I am here, yes we want your resources, but so do Darian and the Faith Services Fleet, we are willing to offer your freedom and membership, he will offer your people enslavement and despair” suggested Candor.
“What are you saying, don’t beat around the bush” demanded Frel.
“The military is pulling back from the outer rim, you're world is on the outer rim, we can no longer guarantee protection from your world, our resources are needed to protect the member worlds of the federation, we are a state of war, we have to protect the federation at all cost, I am not saying you have to join us, but I am saying if you choose to stand alone, I hope Darius does not come for your world” suggested Sarah.
“This is extortion“ demanded Frel.
"No it's not, Mister Ambassador, we are at war, we have few limited sources we can not squander them protecting worlds that offer no assistance, our forces are needed to protect membership worlds, as I stated before, the Memporian Government is welcome to stand on its own” suggested Candor.
Sarah took a few more bites from her plate, she could tell that Captain Marco Santiago had cleared his plate and Candor was almost finished with his plate as well. “The decision is yours Prime Minister, we can not stay in orbit for long, the new calton initiative bill needs to pass in th senate and after this meeting with his excellency, we will be getting to pass the senate” suggested Sarah.
“What is this bill” asked Vrel, as he decided to hear her out.
“The military is out classed, Darius created a superior fleet and kept the production limited to officers that were loyal to him, he has been planning a coup d'état for a while now, our military vessels are outdated and out matched this bill will grant the military forces a new allocation bill for the research and development to win this war against Darius and his followers” said Candor.
“How do my people fit into this bill of yours” asked Vrel.
“The memporians have minerals and materials that can help us build new ships, new weapons and new technologies” suggested Sarah.
“What do we get in return” asked Frel.
“Protection within our spheres and constant patrols and possibly a ship or two assigned to your home world, we would work with you to bolster up your own military force as well” suggested Candor. His plate as now empty as he at his last bite of food.
“You have given us a lot to think about, let’s talk more about this Federation of yours” said Vrel, as the scene starts to fade.
Candor and his small diplomatic party continued to talk to the Memporian Government, the talks went well despite the fact that Frel and Vrel felt like they were being manipulated into this agreement, but it was better than the alternative. They did not want to be enslaved.
With the Memporian Government now on board, the Federation was now up to 36 member worlds.
The End
CREDITS
--
J. L. Galloway wrote for the following characters;
1. Senator Candor of Andoria
2. Senator Sarah Gillman-Sanchez
3. Senator’s Aid Mishel
4. Captain Marco Santiago
5. LTJG Dom Martinez
6. Ambassador Frel (Memporian Government)
7. Prime Minister Vrel (Memporian Government)
Mystic Myra wrote for the following characters;
1.Senator Sarah Gillman-Sanchez
Due to an injury my friend and co creator of the Sarah Gillman-Sanchez character, I will write for the character of Sarah, until the lead writer has recovered from her injury