Star Trek: The Next Generation - Slings and Arrows 1 - A Sea of Troubles by J. Steven York & Christina F. York

Author:J. Steven York & Christina F. York [York, J. Steven & York, Christina F.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Fiction, General, Science Fiction, Space Opera, Adventure
ISBN: 9781416550082
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Published: 2007-01-02T08:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER

7

For the second time that day, the senior staff gathered in the Enterprise’s observation lounge. But this time things were much different. A pair of armed security officers stood guard in the corners of the room.

This time, Lieutenant Addison, or rather, her doppelgänger, was not present. This time, Lieutenant Hawk stood at the end of the table nearest the captain, not quite sure what he was doing there.

Picard looked at them grimly. “The need for subterfuge has passed. We have a confirmed Changeling loose on the ship, and if there are others, they have doubtless already been alerted that we’re aware of their presence.”

His gaze traveled around the table, connecting briefly with each of his command staff. They understood the threat, and he knew he could depend on each individual.

“I’m ordering enhanced blood screenings of all personnel, and I have ordered that everyone remain in groups of two or more at all times.” He grimaced, his voice betraying the revulsion he felt as he spoke. “That won’t help us if the Changeling should kill a crew member and take their blood, though.”

He stood and walked over to the large windows along the back wall, looking out into the nebula that was both their protector and their prison. “Mr. La Forge, I want command-level security lockouts on all shuttlecraft, Work Bees, the captain’s yacht, and all other auxiliary craft.”

“Done, Captain.”

“I’ve apprised Starfleet Command of the situation. They’re sending the Al-Batani to assist us, but of course, there can be no material contact between our ships due to the risk of allowing the Changeling to escape. We’ve been ordered to stay within the star’s radiation zone indefinitely, until the Changeling is either caught, killed, or confirmed to have left the ship.”

Crusher frowned. “That could take a very long time, Captain.”

Riker leaned his elbows on the table and knitted his fingers together in front of him. “The Changeling will be counting on us to become impatient.”

Picard turned back to face his crew. He inclined his head toward Riker, acknowledging his assessment. “Exactly, Number One. So, as frustrating as this situation is, for our own safety and the safety of the Federation, we must remain here until the threat is somehow neutralized. That’s where you come in, Mr. Hawk.”

Hawk blinked in surprise. “Me, Captain?”

“I will be directing myself toward some kind of negotiation with the Changeling. While I do not believe we can afford not to explore this avenue, it creates a conflict of interest on my part.

“In order to attempt negotiation, I must try to develop some degree of empathy and trust with the Changeling. I fear it might provide a weakness for the Changeling to exploit. Normally, I would depend on security to act as my right hand, to operate on a foundation of suspicion that would offset my empathy.” Irony filled his voice as he continued. “Unfortunately, I find myself short a security chief. I would like you to fill that role.”

Hawk’s eyes widened in surprise, quickly controlled. He kept his voice carefully neutral.

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