Coffees, Conversations and Klingons - Part II

Posted on Tue Feb 25th, 2025 @ 12:33am by Captain Robert Burke & Commander Vincent 'Vin' Salvatore

1,628 words; about a 8 minute read

Mission: EPISODE 1: SHAKEDOWN
Location: Hecate, Captain's Ready Room
Timeline: MD029 1540

::ON::

[And now, the conclusion ...]

He seemed quiet for a moment, as if thinking of something, before lowering his mug to speak it. "I can tell you out right, Captain, there is a chance we aren't going to be welcomed. There are a many House's in the Klingon Empire that were opposed to the Accords and would sooner look for a reason to take us out. Not to mention, you're going to have to deal with the infighting between between the Klingons. They are constantly throwing threats and accusations, plotting to remove or dishonor one another, just to gain a higher position amongst the Houses and a step closer to the Council's ear." He let out a sigh as he placed the mud down on the desk. "Also, I feel it necessary to warn you of the constant poking by the Romulan Star Empire. On the Mallard, we were specifically advised to keep an ear out for anything related to them. Gather as much as we could in order to place the Federation in a better position should they ever turn their attention to us. These Romulans are devious by nature and commonly be holding a knife behind their back while extending their hand in peace. I've heard rumors of an entire division in their government dedicated to working in the shadows. One that is even said to hold their own higher ups in check." Vincent took the mug against and let out a deep sigh. "When the monster become the master things become all the more dangerous."

Nodding Burke replied, 'thank you. Yes, the assessments all agree that the Houses, rather than the Imperial government will be the source of any trouble. The Empire is considerably weaker than a few years ago, and Azetbur has bought time by ceding power from the Imperial government and giving it, and responsibility to the Great Houses.' He chuckled mirthlessly. 'Let's not even begin with the Minor Houses. That's another can of ... what do they call it? Gagh? Frightful food.'

'The Romulans ... an interesting bunch. The least predictable of the issues we know out there.' Burke smiled, 'no doubt our paths will cross, and we'll deal with them on a case-by-case basis. Should allow us to build up some firm evidence and data to assess them in future. Thankfully they don't seem expansionist.'

"You better get used to Gagh, Captain. That and Bloodwine. Klingon's will insist on it and, any interaction we have in person, might call for it. We need to show we are prepared to eat and drink with them if we are going to be walking in their yard. Doing otherwise will only show them disrespect and question your own honor." Vincent placed his empty mug on the desk and smirked slightly. "You'll develop a taste for it, if not because you enjoy it, but because you need to. The Gagh may be a bit trickly. Afterall, they serve it live so it will still be moving. The Bloodwine... Well... It will knock you on your ass pretty quick if you aren't careful. Klingons have a strong tolerance and often drink it by the barrels. If you keep on your feet as long as they can... you'll find yourself in good favor." He looked down slightly and cleared his throat. "Speaking of which. I need a favor."

Narrowing his eyes, Burke simply asked, 'oh?'

"As I said, I have experience with the Orion Syndicate, which has placed me in certain locations where they do business. One of the locations I came across was a facility where they hold other species. Some where being held to be sold as servants. Others were being help to be used in some kind of underground fighting ring. And others were prisoners who have crossed the Syndicate in some way and were either being held for information or execution." Vincent explained, clearing his throat slightly, before continuing. "Without revealing details that led me to this location, while there, I took it upon myself to release those who were there. One of which was a Klingon named Rarkot K'gah, son of Kahl'eng of the House of Kahl'eng. Rarkot is an Klingon Imperial Officer who is part of their Intelligence Division. I'll give you a second to take in the fact that the Klingon's even have an Intelligence Division."

Burke chuckled at the joke. He was quite aware of Klingon Imperial Intelligence having tangled with them in the past. His interest was piqued by Salvatore's tale.

"So, Rarkot, while resistant at first helped me with releasing everyone there. He was very determined to not release anything to me about how or why he was caught. I learned later, from Rarkot, that Orion Syndicate has been trying to make moves in the quadrant for a while and have been trying to get Klingon alliances setup. Aligning themselves with several Houses in exchange for helping those houses achieve bigger status with the Council, which in turn, places someone in that family part of the inner circle to gain the Chancellor's ear. A detail that becomes important later." He exclaimed as he adjusted in his chair slightly. "Anyway, during the escape, I came close to being captured. Rarkot returned, saved my life, and helped me escape. Needless to say, we've developed a bit of a friendship. An uneasy one, but something is there." Vincent paused, leaned forward a bit, as he placed his hands on the desk. "While on the Mallard, before I was given the order to come here, I came across some information concerning his family and House. Information that will help him keep it in order and safe. I need your permission to take a shuttle, either by myself or with someone else, to take it to him in person."

'You can't go on your own,' Burke said flatly. 'It's bad fieldcraft.' He paused a moment, and thought over the option. 'Take Hunt. He's a good pilot, and it'll do him good to get some field exposure with an experienced hand.' Reviewing the timetable he said, 'the Hecate should be crossing the border with the Empire tomorrow. We'll arrive in Kronos Orbit about five days after that. I'd advise you wait until the convoy has crossed, at least, until you take the shuttle. I assume it's the Mallard? It's the only warp capable vessel for a few lightyears around.'

Vincent nodded his head in agreement as he leaned back slightly. "If the Mallard is still here, and hasn't been reassigned, I'll be sure to use it. As well as, take Lieutenant Hunt along." He gave the Captain another smile as he leaned back against the chair. Whether he remained on board the Hecate, or get placed back on the Mallard, he would be sure to keep the ship and her crew in mind. They were good officers. Great people. So, if they were ever in a spot and he was made aware, he would be sure to come to their aid. It never hurts to have a few more friends on his side.

'Good - I'll send a message to Command that the Mallard is needed for a mission that should boost Klingon-Federation relations,' Burke replied with a smirk, 'should give you enough time to take it out and back, even if they eventually object.' He shrugged, 'I might be from Security, historically, but I'm most interested in what will work on the frontier. We may need to bend a few rules before we're through.'

Vincent chuckled slightly. "I am sure, if they object, seeing my name on it won't be much of a surprise that I went and did it anyway. It seems you and I share a talent in bending the rules should the need require it."

Burke's smile faltered slightly, before picking up again. 'Yes, it's helped me in some tight situations over the years. I prefer not to do it too often though. There's usually a cost to be paid in the long run.' He sighed, looked off into the distance a moment, then said. 'but enough of this rambling. I'm sure you're eager to get settled.'

"I am... if you're agreeing to take me on as your First Officer and Chief Intelligence Officer." Vincent replied. "And, don't worry. If a rule or two requires a little bending... I'll be sure to get the Captain's approval if needed. And, I've never been one to shy away from paying the consequences for my actions." He looked down for a moment before looking up the Burke again. "Another story. Another time."

'I'm sure we'll have plenty to share, in time,' Burke smiled, 'but yes, for now, I am offering you the positions.'

He looked into the mans eyes before extending his hand again. "Then I accept. Since its you making the offer."

'I have a feeling we'll work well together,' Burke said with a big smile. 'now, don't let me detain you, I'm sure you have much more important things to do.' He released the man's hand, and nodded.

"I certainly hope so." Vincent replied as he stood up and nodded his head. "Have a good day, Captain." He said as he walked away towards the door. As it opened, he turned around to look back at the Captain and added. "Great Coffee, by the way. When my machine is finally set up I would like to have you over to sample some from my collection."

'I'll be sure to do so,' Burke replied warmly.

::OFF::

Captain Robert Burke
Commanding Officer
USS Hecate

Commander Vincent Salvatore
Executive Officer
USS Hecate

 

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