> > "How will we explain my role to the Ramesar?"
> > he asked.
> >
> "We won't. I will introduce you as Mr.
> Nash, and allow them to assume
> what they will. If they don't ask, then we are
> good. If they do ask, will be
> plainly vague. You are a representative of the
> Federation Justice Department,
> which is technically correct as the FBI falls
> under that department. The
> looser role we cast you in, the more
> flexibility you will have. At least that
> is my instinctual reaction."
>
> Michael nodded. "Fair enough," he said.
>
Gathered around as a small group, a channel was openned. The view of the
newly arrived ships was replaced by the leader of the force of two ships.
Bedru took the lead, "Greetings from the United Federation of Planets
Starfleet. I am Admiral Bedru of Starfleet Command. We have been expecting
you."
The nice, polite tone that she decided to take was not returned in kind.
What they got was hostility. The one on the other end of the communication
channel did not even bother to hide his feelings.
"Admiral, you and your people are not permitted on the planet. We will be
scanning to verify that you have not been down there. If the results indicate
that you have been down there, you will be blown out of the stars. You are in
soverign territory of the Ramesar, and you *will* conduct yourselves
accordingly. This violation of our borders should be considered an act of
war. Know that you will be watched."
Bedru looked at both Watson and Nash before responding.
"I appreciate your concerns. However, we both lack a reason to act hostile
towards one another. To ease the situation, how about we just start off on
the right by re-introducing ourselves. I am Admiral Bedru, accompanied by Mr.
Watson and Mr. Nash." she said indicating to the two with her.
The pause was silent, and long.
"I am Captain Treglia." came the intro a hard moment later. "A ship
carrying a diplomatic officer will be here within 2 hours. Until then, do not
provoke us, or we WILL open fire. Treglia out."
With that the channel was closed.
{thoughts}
