ST: Battlefront "Crucible"

[[Episode 1.5]


“Everyone, please be seated...This board of inquiry has been required by the convening authorities of Admirals Quinn, and Hollis.” Admiral Luca Giovanni announced as he took his seat.

Desmond leaned over and whispered to Solek, but he was hushed and the two continued to listen. Summer leaned over to Des and whispered herself. “What did he say?”

“ ‘Its standard procedure, now shut up.’ ” Desmond quoted, and the two met with another shush from Solek. Edgar had been asked a question and was responding.

“Sir, the incidents aboard the Khitomer and the Vega Colony are completely independent from the events leading to the destruction of the New Orleans. I request that they remain separate entities between this inquiry and any future inquiries.”

“Be that as it may be, the events are too close in occurrence to be mutually exclusive. It is hereby my recommendation that a general court-martial be held immediately and in junction to this inquiry to determine the severity and ramifications of your actions as a Starfleet officer over the past month.” Admiral Giovanni announced sounding horribly ominous.

“I second the recommendation. We will convene tomorrow at 0900 hours.” Admiral Hollis announced as the gavel banged. The entire audience stood and murmurs drowned any continued whispering. Admiral Quinn noticeably avoided contact with Edgar through the proceedings, and the rejection was as vicious as the words the other two had spoken.

---

On the lawn of Starfleet Headquarters, Solek stood with Desmond and Summer as he waited for Turek and Aron to join them. The former bridge officers of the New Orleans nodded as they convened at the steps outside the JAG office. “Ensigns, it pleases me to se you all gathered here.”

“What’s going on, sir?” Des asked his superior.

“It is a standard protocol to launch a court-martial at the loss of a ship. It should be considered that Captain James Kirk and even Ambassador Picard have gone through this very process. However...”

“However what, sir?” Turek pressed. “What exactly was the Cap--Lieutenant’s involvement and why does it have significance?”

Solek sighed heavily. “On a matter of inevitable discovery I see no need to keep this information classified. While on the Khitomer he utilized the infamous ‘Borg cure’ virus that’s been circling the subspace frequencies rumors – a virus that he wrote. This complicates the standard investigation, compounded by the fact that he was assigned command as only a lieutenant.”

“It’s a drumhead trial.” Summer said in shock.

“It appears so.”

---

“At ease, Lieutenant.” Commander Rohan Malek stated when he entered the briefing room. Edgar took his seat and smoothed his uniform. “...it seems like you’ve gotten yourself into one hell of a mess in just a matter of weeks.”

Eddie looked over the list and sighed heavily. It seemed the reports from Captain Oren-De and Lt. Matoya had been added as complaints to the proceedings. “It can be seen that way, sir. Can I ask a personal question?”

“I expect you to, Lieutenant. Ask away.”

“Given the list of charges brought against me in this court-marshal, are you capable of keeping an unbiased opinion and defend me to your best ability, at or above standard offered by the JAG office?” Eddie’s usage of political speak impressed the commander with a concerning level.

Commander Malek smiled. “I can promise that, Lieutenant. Now, let’s begin...”

---

“Are you certain this is absolutely necessary, Captain?” Admiral Quinn asked as he looked out of his office onto the view of Earth. Admiral Giovanni and Captain Hollis sat in the office with their own drinks, examining the relevant reports and logs.

A black-uniformed Captain smiled as she took a sip of her drink, moving to sit next to Hollis and Giovanni. “I recognize you don’t completely agree with my methods, Quinn, but I assure you, this is necessary.”

((ok, this ep may get shorted given the amount of distractions and my inability to write court drama. Feedback is appreciated.))

Edgar sat next to Commander Malek as the Judging council arrived, now with the inclusion of Admirals T’nae and Zelle. At Malek’s advice, Edgar wore his dress-whites as opposed to his standard dress uniform. Both officers were well aware of the power that color still played through the Federation. Quinn spoke first, “To recap, Lieutenant Calvin, the charges you face in this general court-martial are as the following: Insubordination; Gross Negligence; Disorderly Conduct; Attempted Perjury; Terrorism; and Treason. Your prior testimony in the board of inquiry states you have pled ‘not guilty’ to all charges and intend to plead as such today, does this still stand?”

Rohan and Eddie nodded in agreement, allowing Admiral Quinn to continue, “Prosecution has the opening statement.”

The entire crowd was in a stunned silence. Most were expecting the insubordination and disorderly conduct charges, but the other charges seemed excessive even to those against Eddie. All eyes turned from Eddie to the prosecuting Judge Advocate Officer.

Lieutenant Elizabeth Suarez stood and began her opening statement. “Thank you, Admirals. Through the course of this trial, a great many horrible truths will be revealed that have occurred over the past month, all of which are true. It is horrible to think that even one of the following crimes was committed by one man, but all of them make the acts even more unforgivable.

“Lieutenant Edgar Calvin has a long list of charges against him. Insubordination: for disobeying orders from both Admiral Quinn and Captain Oren-De. Gross Negligence: For allowing 73 deaths to happen under his command, as well as for the loss of the U.S.S. New Orleans. Disorderly Conduct: For disrespecting an Ambassador of Vulcan. Attempted Perjury: For his refusal to cooperate with an ongoing investigation. Treason: For creating a virus that violates the Federation Charter and Constitution, as interpreted by recent laws. Terrorism: For utilizing this virus to commit genocide. For these actions to be found in one person makes Lieutenant Calvin nothing less than a monster, and he should be found guilty as such.”

Eddie sneered at the claims, knowing now how specifically this prosecution intended to paint him. He glanced at Commander Malek and nodded. As Lieutenant Suarez took her seat, Malek stood and took the stage of the courtroom. “Admirals, the claims from the prosecution are nothing more than someone seeking a scapegoat. Lieutenant Calvin is the unfortunate victim in a series of unfortunate events. He made no disrespect to any Vulcan Ambassador, and he was under strict orders not to discuss anything.

“As for the allegations of Terrorism and Treason, both are skewed in extremist opinions. The final charge of Gross Negligence is nothing more than a desperate grasp from a weak stance that anyone could have beaten a true no-win scenario. In the course of this trial, I will prove that Lieutenant Calvin should not be punished, but commended for how he handled his month of command.”

As Commander Malek took his seat while Eddie watched Lieutenant Suarez begin her prosecution, bringing forth the first pieces of a long list of evidence against him. He caught her glance as she took the floor once again.

“As you can see from the records of the briefing meeting just prior to the New Orleans arriving at Vega, it is clear that Lieutenant Calvin not only wrote the virus in a pre-meditated manner, he had full intentions to utilizing it against Borg drones at his soonest convenience. It is clear that the defendant had prior knowledge the attack would occur, and had ample time to inform Starfleet. Otherwise he wouldn’t have had time to write the virus.”

“Objection, the last two statements are pure conjecture.” Commander Malek declared as he stood promptly. Eddie fought to keep his smile under control. In the back of the court room, Solek seemed to relax into his own version of a smile.

“Sustained. Lieutenant you will keep to facts, not opinions.”

“Sorry, your honor...To rephrase, either the defendant had prior knowledge of the attack, or he had a disposition and desire to create the virus, even though it went against Starfleet Uniform Code to do so. Either way, the actions he has made were treasonous.”

Eddie had slumped slightly, knowing the uphill battle was getting steeper with every claim the prosecution made against him. Relief was only in the Admiral’s call for a one hour recess.

The courtroom emptied and Solek made his way to the brig to visit with Eddie. His intent was deflected by Malek, claiming he needed to discuss strategy with how the prosecution was shaping things in the trial. Feeling slightly dejected, Solek left the building.

“Solek, we missed you this morning, were you ill?” An elderly Vulcan monk inquired approaching the officer.

“I was not ill; I simply did not wish to attend.” He responded.

The monk furrowed his eyebrows and seemed to frown as much as any Vulcan would, “Solek, you aren’t moving away from the teachings, are you? We’ve noticed you have been spending a great deal of time with the Romulan.”

There was almost a flare in Solek’s eyes at the comment. “I am perfectly capable of retaining my grasp on the teachings. I see no risk in the interaction. Even the late Ambassador Spock believed reintegration was possible.”

“Ambassador Spock was half-human and with that came a skewed belief that Romulans could be redeemed. You would be well to remember his fate.”

“And you would be well to remember that Lieutenant Calvin is also half-human. It is only logical to notice that successful reintegration may involve this planet. Your opinions of failure are based in prejudice. Excuse me.” Solek finished and moved away from the monk. Another monk arrived to join the other.

“Is he V’tosh Ka’tur?”

“It is highly likely...unfortunate, to lose one like him to his emotions. More and more seem to be straying away from the teachings.”

“Perhaps this trial against the Romulan will act as a warning to others that this idea should be quashed.” The two monks continued walking towards a small monastery, continuing to discuss the intricacies of how Eddie’s court-martial could affect the various politics that had become muddied with the degradation of the quadrants. Solek continued his stroll down the walkway when he ran into Turek.

“Mr. Solek, I was wondering if I could have a moment of your time.” The Cardassian asked, looking somewhat eager. Solek sighed with a slight exhaustion to his voice. “I’m not interrupting anything, am I sir?”

“No, it’s quite all right. What can I help you with?”

“Sir, I wanted to inform you, as the standing commanding officer of our crew, I wish to continue serving whatever crew you and Lieutenant Calvin lead.”

“A noble decision under normal circumstances, but perhaps you should wait until after the court-martial is resolved. Until a favorable decision is found for Lieutenant Calvin, I advise that neither of us acknowledge this conversation.” Solek advised as he tried to move away.

“Sir, with all due respect, my Starfleet career is as much on the line as Calvin’s. He gave me a chance to shine that no other officer would provide, and my loyalty is to him. He trusts you, so I trust you.”

Solek broke a slight smile in approval. “Hopefully your loyalty won’t be misplaced. I’ll be sure to pass along your request. As far as I’m concerned, you will be a great asset for whatever crew we end up having. ...Dismissed.”

Solek took solace in Turek’s words and loyalty as he stopped by the cafeteria to have a short meal before finally returning to the courtroom. He dreaded the next part of the trial, knowing the prosecution still had much to present, and he was losing confidence in the defense.

“At this time I would like to call my final witness, Lt. Margaret Matoya.” Lt. Suarez announced. A chill of dread passed over Eddie as he watched Maggie approached the bench and swore an oath of honesty. “Lieutenant, what is your standing assignment onboard the U.S.S. Pandora?”

“Chief Science Officer.”

“And are there any specific areas of research you are managing at this time?” Lt. Suarez pressed.

“Investigate the recent Borg attack on the Vega Colony, with focus on the counterattack methods utilized...including the viral attacks.” Maggie responded.

“And what viral attacks were involved in the Vega Colony battle?”

“A virus was developed that overloads the neural processor, effectively disabling the drone while it spreads to other systems. Preliminary reports suggest it would be quite effective in this process.”

“Admirals, I present the code that compiled into this virus. I would like to note that under the expansion of the Federation Charter to include synthetic life forms, the existence of this virus is in violation with the Federation Charter regarding the use of viral weapons.”

The courtroom was silent at the reveal just how exactly the charge had been defined. Edgar leaned into Rohan quickly to whisper something that seemed to trouble the JAG officer. Lt. Suarez returned to Maggie and asked a final question. “Lt. Matoya, who wrote the virus?”

“Lieutenant Calvin.”

“Thank you; no further questions.” Lt. Suarez stated as she went to sit down. Rohan stood and approached the witness stand.

“Lieutenant, how did you come to discover the name of the virus’ author?”

“It was informed to me when I received my assignment.” Maggie commented, suspecting Cmdr. Malek had intentions to discredit her.

“Did you at any time discuss the virus with Lt. Calvin?” Rohan asked, keeping a perfect poker face.

“I was under orders to interview him for my research, so yes.” She explained

Rohan turned away from her and stared at Admiral Quinn, almost defiantly. “And was there any difficulty with this discussion?”

“Yes, he refused to discuss the situation until Captain Oren-De ordered him to comply.” There was a murmur from the crowd, prompting Admiral T’nae to speak.

“Commander, what is the purpose of incriminating your client further with this line of questioning?”

“I’m getting to that Admiral, if I may have a few more moments?”

“Get to your point quickly, Commander. Lieutenant, answer the question.”

Eddie and Maggie shared a moment of locked eye contact, both knowing why he was so difficult, and knowing how it changed the direction everything would go. “Lt. Calvin was...under Admiral Quinn and Admiral Giovanni’s orders to not discuss anything until the inquiry was completed.”

Eddie raised an eyebrow at Admiral Quinn, watching how the statement sunk through the other Admirals’ minds. Rohan continued, “Logically speaking, Lieutenant, would you say then that the information received about the virus was not received through the standard protocols and the proper channels, including the interview?”

Maggie glared at Rohan and at Eddie. “Given the established facts...yes.”

“Admirals, I request Lt. Matoya’s testimony, her interview documentation, and the research reports she has compiled be removed from evidence of this trial.”

“Objection! That information is valid and not contrived!” Lt. Suarez slammed her hands down as she stood from her seat.

“Sustained, the majority of this information is still relevant and could be considered inevitable discovery.” Admiral Zelle stated attempting to speak for the entire panel.

“No, we can’t be sure of that without further information.” Admiral Quinn protested.

“That is a bias to protect your command skills. I advise it remain.” Admiral T’nae shot back.

“Admirals, I will not allow this panel to degrade into a political debate. We will remove the testimony and evidence until such a time that an alternative method would have been proven to reveal this information.”

“I have no further questions for this witness, but pending future reintroduction I wish to retain the right to redirect.”

“Does the prosecution have any further witnesses?”

Lt. Suarez stood, and looked defeated, “Not at this time, however I request a continuance to allow for some time to investigate any other possible methods the information removed would be seen as inevitable discovery.”

“You have twenty four hours. Until then, we are in recess. Lt. Matoya, you may step down.” The audience began to disperse, and Maggie stormed out of the room in a huff of fury. As the admirals entered the chambers, Giovanni could be heard shouting “What the hell was that about?”

Lt. Suarez entered the conference room flustered, which annoyed her more that Lt. Calvin was expecting this. Cmdr. Malek smirked and offered her a seat. “Has your client decided to confess for a plea? I'm still willing to offer 2 years confinement for his actions.”

“Lieutenant, we both know you have nothing to provide for inevitable discovery, and you have no case. Let's end this farce and drop the charges.” Cmdr. Malek retaliated, prompting Elizabeth to shift hastily in her seat.

“That won't happen. It's well defined from numerous sources that he wrote the virus. That still accounts for his treason and terrorism charges...”

“You know that's bullshit.” Eddie shot quickly to the prosecutor.

“Ed, shut up.” Rohan snapped as he brushed his client to the side looking back at a now smirking officer. “Liz, we both know you have nothing on the charges of insubordination disorderly conduct or attempted perjury. Let's drop those at least.”

Liz looked between the two men, feeling somewhat double-teamed through this. She scowled knowing that Rohan was right. “I will drop the charges on the condition that Lt. Calvin pleads guilty to the treason and terrorism charges.”

“Drop them to insubordination, different from the current insubordination charge, no time, and you have a deal.” Rohan said.

“Insubordination is too trivial for what he's done. You're lucky I decided to not go for reckless operation or murder with how he acted.”

Eddie shot to his feet ready to tackle Liz for her audacity. Rohan was just as quick to push him back to his seat. “Liz, don't be unreasonable about this.”

“I'm not being unreasonable about anything. He can end this trial with a change of plea and I'll advise for minimal punishment.” Liz began.

“I've done nothing wrong, and you will not coerce me into submission.” Eddie moved towards the door. “So if you want to drag me tooth and nail to the galley, you've got your work cut out for you.”

---

Lt. Suarez moved hastily up the steps to the prosecutor's bench. The admirals had been waiting for her arrival for a few minutes past the expected time. “My apologies, Admirals.”

Hollis spoke for Giovanni. “Lt. Suarez, were you able to find an alternative means of discovery for the information in Lt. Matoya's testimony?”

“No, I was not.” Liz confessed as she shook her head.

“Does the prosecution have any more witnesses or evidence to provide?” Admiral Zelle pressed. Lt. Suarez shook her head again. Zelle sighed in frustration. “Then the defense may call it's first witness.”

Rohan stood, eager to get rolling on the defense, starting with the biggest name he could for an opening act. “The defense calls Ensign Solek to the stand.”

Solek moved calmly across the room and took a seat at the chair. “Ensign Solek, what was your role in the Vega Colony Battle?”

“I was previously assigned to the Khittomer as a science officer.”

“And what was your specialty?”

“Cybernetics.”

“When did you first encounter the defendant during the crisis?”

Solek flinched a sign of weakness that T'nae and Liz caught at the question. “The Khittomer had been boarded, but Commander Davis was just retaking the ship. He ordered me to Transporter Room 3 to assist the 'cowboy' that helped his crew retake the ship. It was not until he arrived at the transporter room as well that I met him.”

Liz started mashing furiously into her P.A.D.D. for some information as Rohan continued his questions. “What happened next, Ensign?”

“We beamed back aboard the New Orleans to discover that the senior staff had been either taken or killed in combat. Ed..gar was the highest ranking bridge officer at the time and thus acting captain.”

“On the colony surface, did you see Lt. Calvin do anything unusual?”

Solek paused. “I would interpret it as creative.”

T'nae's vulcan scoff echoed in the silence. Rohan pressed the point. “Can you elaborate?”

“Lt. Calvin had what he called a replicator virus. He installed it to an uplink tower that had been established on the ground. It was extremely effective at disabling a large number of drones that ultimately helped retake the colony. While I didn't witness any event, it is logical to assume this disabling also saved countless colonists and officers from assimilation.”

“Thank you, Mr. Solek. I have no further questions.”

Elizabeth stood, almost smirking. “Mr. Solek, please explain the term V'tosh ka'tur.”

Among the murmors from the audience, the glares from T'nae and Zelle, the stunned audible from Commander Malek, Eddie's jaw dropped only at Solek taking a gulp at the question.

“The term is an out-dated Vulcan word, figuratively translated to mean 'one without logic.' In practice, however, it was directed only at Vulcans who did not follow the teachings of Surak.”

“And these teachings. Their goal is common knowledge to suppress or remove emotions, but what methods are used?”
“Meditation is the most common one, but others exist.”

“When was the last time you meditated, Mr. Solek?”

“Objection, you honor, this is a tangent for a cultural education. There is no purpose for these questions in the context of this trial.”

“Overruled. I am interested to hear Mr. Solek's response.” T'nae responded quickly.

Admiral Hollis interjected. “Sustained. I don't see the relevance.”

Admiral Giovanni cleared his throat. “Need I remind this panel this is not the place for a political debate. Lieutenant, what is your point?”

“Your Honor, I'm trying to prove that Mr. Solek's objectivity is in question. He has faltered in his meditations and thus the standard of logic is not met. His testimony is not factual, but character.”

Eddie's eyes flared and shot daggers into Elizabeth's chest as she stood trying to stare back at him. She had to admit to herself, Eddie's outward opinion of Solek was one of great respect, maybe even admiration...or perhaps it was envy. Whatever it was he displayed, it was very strong. She snapped out of her small daze when Admiral Giovanni spoke again. “I'll allow this questioning, but get to the point quickly. Ensign, you will answer the question.”

“It was...onboard the Khittomer.” Solek's response shocked even Eddie. The panel of judges held a mix of emotions, from disappointment to fury in most. Elizabeth wasn't expecting this extreme.

“Uh...no further questions.” Elizabeth said taking her seat. Eddie and Rohan were failing at having a silent argument as Eddie practically shoved Rohan into the floor.

As Rohan recovered, he announced the intention Eddie pushed him into, “Permission to redirect?”

“Granted”

“Mr. Solek, have you stopped believing in the teachings of Surak?”

“No I haven't.”

“Would you consider yourself a 'Vulcan without logic'?”

“No, I would not.”

“No further questions...” Rohan sighed as he took his seat.

“Solek, you may step down. Cmdr Malek, please call your last witness.”

“My apologies, Mr. Solek was my last witness.”

Admiral Hollis pointed at Eddie. “Lieutenant, are you aware that by not testifying you cannot defend your actions?”
Eddie stood in response. “Admiral, by that definition, you imply that my actions may only be excusable, but not justifiable. I refuse to testify as it is my right not to...especially in a biased court.”

Rohan jabbed Eddie with his elbow, bringing him back to his seat. Admiral Giovanni made his final announcements. “This court is in recess until 0900 tomorrow morning, where we will weigh our decisions to this court. Dismissed.”

“All Rise...” the Bailiff announced as the admirals entered and took their seats. Everyone was in full dress uniform for ruling, and Eddie couldn't have looked more nervous.

“Be seated. Will council and the defendant please stand...This panel has deliberated over this trial and has come to a unanimous conclusion: The defendant, Lt. Edgar Calvin will face a reprimand for his actions. The severity of this reprimand is purely weighed by the ruling of this council on one matter: Is Edgar Calvin guilty of committing treason against the Federation. Admirals, have you all come to a conclusion on this matter?” The other four nodded a confirmation. “Then let your verdicts be announced.”

Admiral Quinn stood first, “Not Guilty.”

T'nae was next, “Guilty.”

Zelle followed T'nae, “Guilty.”

Admiral Hollis took his turn, “Not Guilty.”

Lastly, Admiral Giovanni announced his ruling: “Not Guilty.”

The courtroom went into an uproar at the decision and Eddie shook hands with Rohan. Both men were smiling. Lt. Suarez also shook hands with Eddie, saying she was pleased some credibility was reduced from the initial overloading. Eddie smiled as his officers greeted him with smiles of their own, but one thing stood out among all of the confusion: Solek wasn't there. “Have any of you seen Solek?”

“I believe some Vulcan monks were looking for him earlier this morning.” Summer replied, letting her concern show. Eddie shared her concern and began moving through the crowd.

“Sir, is everything all right?” Turek asked, showing signs of a developing bedside manner. Eddie turned back and clearly looked worried.

“I don't know.” As Eddie slipped through the crowd of officers Turek watched Des and Summer exchange a glance of panic before charging through the crowd after him.

“Hey wait what's going on!?” Turek hollered as he chased after the two ensigns.

Eddie arrived at Solek's quarters and had chimed the doorbell a good number of times when the rest of the crew arrived in tow. Eddie looked at the three ensigns and turned back to the door. “Uh, sir, you are still his commanding officer...you could override the door lock.”

“Des...you're a genius, but don't remind me like that.” Eddie said, half-smiling. “Computer, override security lock, authorization Calvin Tango Beta Seven Echo.”

The computer chirped and opened to show a completely ransacked living quarters and the sounds of sobs filtering through from the bedroom. Summer couldn't believe what she was seeing, “What on earth happened?”

Eddie didn't answer as he darted across the obstacle course to the sounds. Inside the bedroom Solek had curled into a ball obscured from the doorway by furniture. “Solek? Sol, what happened?”

“They...the Vulcan monks decided to investigate my adherence to Vulcan custom after yesterday's testimony. They found I was emotionally unfit and a liability. I failed the logic testing, Ed...” Turek made the choice to clear his throat and announce his presence before any further exposure was made unwittingly.

“Doctor, I respect that you are chief medical among our group, but I must ask that you excuse yourself at this time.” Eddie ordered. Turek nodded and made his way back to the living area, leaving Solek and Eddie to process the problem.

“Thank you, Ed...I don't know where I would be if I hadn't met you.” Solek said looking into his captain's eyes. The two shared a kiss before having a momentary mind-meld to help recollect their thoughts. “As you can see, they know we're romantically involved.”

“I honestly doubt that will be a long-kept secret regardless of who on the High Council knows.”

In the living room, the Cardassian sat across from the Betazoid and the Human, no one saying much at all. Turek hated the silence, thinking that Des was sending thoughts about him to Summer, or that Summer herself was telepathic and having a conversation with Desmond, effectively excluding him. “So...Solek and Edgar?”

Summer jumped slightly and tensed up from the break of silence. Desmond almost laughed at her sudden reaction. “Yeah...as far as we can tell at least..”

There was a chime at the door, prompting Desmond to welcome whomever it was in the quarters. The doors slid open to reveal Admiral Quinn. The three ensigns were instantly standing at attention. “At ease, ensigns. Just tell me where that commanding officer of yours is.”

Turek stammered grabbing the admiral's focus. “I think he's helping Mr. Solek get cleaned up.”

“Was the ensign attacked?” Admiral Quinn asked, looking around at the shambled room.

“No sir, not that I saw any defensive wounds. I believe something was used that broke his control on his emotions, but I'll need to run further tests in my lab to verify this.”

“I see. So when are you going to answer my question?”

Turek shook, fighting between staying at attention and moving towards the bedroom door. “T-this way, sir.”

Summer caught onto Turek's need for loud distraction and jumped to move to the door, promptly jumping into the door itself instead. A moment later, and Eddie opened it with a recomposed Solek standing just behind him.

“Summer? What is it?” Summer nodded her head in the direction of Admiral Quinn, who raised an eyebrow at Eddie. “Admiral!”

“My office, twenty minutes.”

Eddie slumped slightly after Quinn left the quarters. “Thanks for the warning...not that it seemed to help much in the end.”

“Don't worry, sir. I don't think any of us have a problem with any of it.” Turek reassured, but Eddie's reaction indicated the comment wasn't taken correctly, or about the right topic.

“Ok I'm ordering you four to find Aron-Mu and head to Sisko's restaurant. When I'm done with Quinn's meeting I'll meet you there.” Eddie said, moving towards the hallway.

---

Quinn's office was vacated from the typical administrative officers milling about helping him manage the spacedock and the captains under him. “So, Eddie...the court-martial found you justifiably excused in your actions. The virus is decompiled, but is under proper research status now to better understand why it had the results it had.”

“Understood sir.”

“Not yet you don't. I don't want you near any compiler with any block of code you may or may not have written until you've vetted yourself further. Furthermore, when I clear someone for information I expect that person to be told completely what is going on!”

“Yes Sir.”

“You will remain in contact with Lt. Matoya regarding her research. I don't care if she asks you what color your underwear was the day you wrote it, you're telling her the answer.”

“Yes sir. Is that all?”

“No. That was the easy part. Truth be told, Eddie, you proved yourself in a tougher situation that most captains in my day ever saw. I can't overlook that, and that's the main reason you and I are having this conversation – not with you on a prison transport to Del Vana II.” Eddie felt himself shrink under the prospect. “Nonetheless, leaving you in command could be dangerous with your lack of experience and your track record. I've decided however, that you and your crew will have another chance to redeem yourself.”

“Really sir?” Eddie was almost beaming.

“Yes and no. Your crew will remain unchanged, but you will hold the rank of first officer officially.”

“I don't understand...”

“I'm commissioning the required use of a modified ECH. The Doctor was kind enough to allow similar expansion that he had to be copied into this copy, thus creating a longer term Educational Command Hologram that will take over should you get in over your head, or need advice or guidance. While he is your captain, you both will report directly to me on any missions that your ship will have. Is that clear?”

“I...I believe so, sir.”

“Don't feel so defeated. It's rare that a Lieutenant gets to hold the rank of XO. You're dismissed.”

“Thank you sir. Oh, one question, if I may?” Quinn nodded. “What is the new ship specs?”

“She's an older Constitution model. U.S.S. Exobyte. Report to her at 0730 tomorrow morning for your first assignment.”

“Yes Sir.”

((Oh finally this episode is finished! Thanks for reading it and sorry it took so long to write. This concludes Season 1 of battlefront. Next episode may take some time to get off the ground, but it is in the works.))

Thanks for this, it's a great read. Really looking forward to the next episode!