Janeway: Generations Part 10
10
On Monday at 0800hours the Admirals Nechayev and Pulaski beamed on board the Sovereign. The Captain and the first officer welcomed them in the transporter room.
“Captain Hitochi“, the Admiral greeted the commanding officer.
“Admiral, everything is ready for our departure.“ The Captain informed them.
“Very well, Captain. Let’s head to the bridge then.“
“Aye, Admiral.“
The turbolift brought them to the bridge and as soon as Admiral Nechayev stepped out of the turbolift a young Ensign next to it announced her presence.
“Admiral on the bridge.“ Which brought everybody to their feet, standing at attention.
“As you were!“ She ordered with a smirk.
“Would you like to give the orders, Admiral?“ Captain Hitochi asked.
“Why not?“ The Admiral agreed, taking a seat in the Captain’s chair which fit her like a glove when she leaned back she looked at the officer at the helm giving her orders.
“Set course for DS9 Lieutenant.“
“Course set, ma´am.“
“Engage!“
The Sovereign broke orbit around earth and took up it’s course to DS9. Getting up from the chair she joined Kate and the Captain in the back while the first officer took the vacated chair.
Captain Hitochi led the Admirals to their quarters to give them time to get settled and the Admiral made sure they would talk about their mission at 1000hours.
After Kate had settled herself in one of the VIP quarters she joined Alynna in her´s bringing a padd from Phoebe with her.
“Everything settled“, Kate asked when she entered Alynna´s quarter.
“Yes.“
“Oh, before I forget, Phoebe asked me to give you this message“, Kate handed her the padd and sat down on the couch while Alynna sat behind the desk to look at the padd.
When Phoebe’s face came alive on the small screen an involuntary smile stole across the Admiral’s features, leaving Kate to wonder if Alynna knew what had just happened.
“Hello, Aly“, Phoebe’s eyes sparkled with mischief. “ I send you this message to remind you that I miss you already. Please be careful, love! Oh, by the way I forgot to tell you, my exhibition will be opening on Friday. Kate reassured me you will be back by then. I can’t wait to see you again. I will meet you there. Wear whatever you feel comfortable with. Bye, love!“
“Aly, huh?“ Kate couldn’t help but laugh at Alynna´s very becoming blush.
“Yes, well...“, an embarrassed Admiral was establishing a comm link to her aide at the HQ. Soon she was looking at the expectant face of Lieutenant Norrington.
“Yes, Admiral?“
“Lieutenant, please make sure Miss Janeway receives a dozen of long stemmed red roses Friday morning.“
“Aye, Admiral. What shall be written on the card?“ The Lieutenant asked without missing a beat, as if the Admiral sent roses to another woman every week.
“Just my name.“
“Which name?“
„What do you mean which name? I only have one name.“ The Admiral looked confused at her aide. On the couch Kate was rolling her eyes at her friend.
“I mean ma´am“, the aide patiently explained, “do you want it formal or more casual?“
“What?“ Alynna looked uncomprehendingly at the woman on the screen.
Before Lieutenant Norrington could answer Kate took it in her hands to give the well meaning aide a break.
“What she means is“, Kate clarified, „do you want to send it as Admiral Nechayev or just Alynna?“
“Oh! Alynna of course“, Nechayev clarified.
“Or rather Aly?“ Kate mumbled sniggering.
“Sign it with Alynna“, the Admiral confirmed to her aide before she shot Kate a poisonous look.
“Aye, ma´am.“
“Nechayev out.“
“What’s the matter with you?“ Nechayev barked at Pulaski. “I don’t appreciate your silly jokes. It’s not funny. It’s very personal and intimate. Certainly not funny.“
“Sorry“, Kate apologised. Seeing the hurt look on the other woman’s face she realised that she had overstepped an invisible line. Kate had never seen Alynna react that way but she had never seen her friend falling in love either. But then, nobody had ever called Nechayev Aly, not even Laura. Something was completely different this time but in a good way.
“I’m really sorry. I didn’t mean to hurt you. It was just so unexpected.“
“I know“, Alynna sighed.
Deciding it best to change the subject Kate cleared her throat before she talked about their upcoming mission.
“So, what will happen when we reach DS9?“
“I will talk to Commander Sisko and I’m afraid I will have to put my cards on the table. Although, according to what I know about the Commander it will be to both our advantage.“
“You sure?“
“As sure as I can be. He will not like some of the things I have to say but in the end he will understand.“ Alynna was convinced.
The journey to DS9 was a pleasant one, Alynna had time to renew the contact with her officers and the crew was happy to have the Admiral on board again. Contrary to everybody else’s opinion of the cool and distant woman the crew of the Sovereign held their commanding officer in high regards. More than once did her tactical skill safe them from a difficult situation. And more than one member of the crew owed their life to the Ice Queen. The crew of the Sovereign was fiercely loyal to the Admiral and would follow her to the pits of hell if necessary, which they knew could happen any time soon given the situation with the Dominion.
Commander Sisko was more than surprised when his second in command announced the arrival of the Admirals Nechayev and Pulaski on the station.
“What happened to being the despised hell hole of the quadrant?“ Sisko muttered shortly before the doors to his office slid open and Admiral Nechayev entered in her usual air of arrogance.
“Admiral Nechayev, welcome to DS9“, Sisko got to his feet.
“Commander“, the Admiral greeted stiffly.
“What circumstances do we owe your visit Admiral?“ Sisko wondered.
Ignoring his attempt to small talk, Nechayev countered with a question of her own.
“How was your meeting with Commander Hudson?“
“Enlightening“, Sisko tried to keep the surprise out of his voice.
“I bet it was“, the Admiral snorted.
“Admiral Jellico informed me that Starfleet isn’t inclined to take actions against the Maquis. I can’t stop wondering what will happen to the treaty with the Cardassians if we don’t.“
“What do you think, Commander?“ Nechayev asked linking her hands behind her back as she strolled towards the view ports behind the conference table at the other end of his office.
“Permission to speak freely, Admiral?“
“Granted.“
“It’s a double edged sword. On the one hand I can relate to the Maquis on the other hand I know we have to uphold the policy of the Federation. I’m rather confused and surprised by this decision.“ Sisko sighed, not quite sure why he was so honest with his superior.
“Understandable. I’m quite sure though Commander Hudson made a strong case for the Maquis.“
“I’m not sure I can follow you, Admiral.“ Sisko tried to play it down.
Whirling around the Admiral raised an eyebrow and with piercing eyes she looked at the Commander.
“I’m neither stupid nor a fool, Commander!“ Nechayev clarified. “I know about Commander Hudson and the Maquis.“
“But then why...“
“Because“, Nechayev interrupted impatiently, „they are a bunch of hotheads who do serve a purpose after all. But first of all they have to understand, contrary to Admiral Jellico, that we have to uphold the treaty with the Cardassians.“
“What do you suggest we should do?“ Sisko thought he finally understood where this was heading. Who would have thought? Admiral Nechayev an ally, he would have never thought it possible and yet here they where a mutual understanding clearly visible in their expressions.
Gesturing towards the conference table they sat down, the Admiral at the head and Sisko on her right side.
“Maybe you should ask your second in command to join us, Commander.“ The Admiral suggested.
When Major Kira took a seat on the left side of the Admiral, Nechayev took a deep breath before she started to explain her proposition, knowing that neither the Commander nor the Major would like what she had to say. It couldn’t be helped though.
“Admiral Jellico had been successful in convincing Starfleet Command that we are no longer responsible for the actions of the Maquis and therefore we shouldn’t do anything to reign them in. Treaty or no treaty.“
“But that is not what you think.“ The Major stated a mere fact.
“No, it is not. As I mentioned before, the Maquis are hotheads but even I can relate to their reasons and to some degree I agree with them.“
“But?“ Now it was Sisko´s turn to will the Admiral to get to the point.
“But“, Nechayev sighed, „we have this treaty and we should uphold it, because the Maquis are still citizens of the Federation and their actions are going to start a war with the Cardassian empire sooner or later. And I for one, would prefer it to start later.“
“Because you were the one mainly responsible negotiating the treaty.“ Kira accused the Admiral.
“Because, Major“, Nechayev levelled an icy glare at the Bajoran officer, “the Federation isn’t ready to fight on two fronts. Not now. We are not ready to face the Dominon and the Cardassians.“
“You seem very convinced that we will have to fight against the Cardassians, very much like the Maquis.“ Sisko observed impassionately.
“As I said, Commander, I’m not stupid. Knowing the Cardassians like I do, I know there will be no other way. I don’t trust them but we can’t play the game according to their rules, we have to play it to ours. Therefore, it is imperative for the Maquis to keep a low profile for the time being which will grant us more time.“
Leaning back in her chair the Admiral observed the other two officers, digesting her words. She knew it wasn’t all she had to say and the next things would be even harder for them to live with, but somebody had tell the truth, painfully as it might be. She wasn’t afraid to do so, she had never believed in mollycoddling those she was responsible for.
There was no time like the present though to put all the cards on the table.
“And will we ever be ready?“ Sisko asked with trepidation.
“No, but hopefully better prepared.“ Nechayev stated coolly.
“Both of you should be aware though that it is going to get worse before it will get better, especially for this part of the quadrant.“
“You mean for us Bajorans.“ Kira snorted at the Admiral’s diplomatic phrasing.
“Yes, Major. Right now Starfleet´s main concern is the Dominion. And I’m afraid we all are going to pay a high price. Some higher than others.“
“Admiral, may I ask you something?“ Kira was curious about the Admiral’s motives, she couldn’t reconcile the woman before her with the things she had heard about her.
“You may, but I can’t promise to answer them.“ The Admiral’s left eyebrow rose expectantly.
“I understand, ma´am. Why are you telling us that? I mean, usually we just have to follow orders and not understand the reasons behind them. Especially the political motivations behind a particular decision.“
“Usually I agree with that“, Nechayev explained, “but the near future may decide if the Federation will survive or not. It will be tough and will cost us a lot. I believe that everybody should know what the price is going to be if we were to fail, which is not an option by the way.“
Looking into the Admiral’s cool blue eyes the Major found nothing but honesty there. Nechayev was telling the truth and Kira could also detect a trace of worry in those eyes. The Admiral might be hard one but she had her principles and ideals something which Kira had respect and admiration for.
There was also a certain tone in the Admiral’s voice when she spoke about the Cardassinas which Kira recognised. Suddenly it hit her like a ten force phaser beam, Nechayev had experienced the Cardassian´s `hospitality´ herself.
“Think about it, talk to your staff!“ Nechayev already got to her feet. “We’ll meet again tomorrow at 1000hours.“
“Ma´am.“ Both officers stood straight when the Admiral left. Exhaling audibly when the doors closed behind the retreating figure of Admiral Nechayev. Both looked stunned at each other, trying to figure out what had just happened.
“What the bloody hell was that?“ Sisko couldn’t help but wonder.
“Let’s just say there is more to, what is it you Starfleet call her?“ Kira asked thoughtfully.
“Wicked Witch.“ Sisko helpfully provided, not without cringing because today he had acquired a new respect for his superior officer.
“Right, there is obviously more to the Wicked Witch than you thought.“
Turning on her heels Kira left the Commander´s office and the man to his thoughts.
On board the Sovereign the Admiral returned to her quarters and ordered a whiskey which she took to the couch under the view port. Taking a large gulp of the drink Alynna let her head rest against the back of the couch contemplating the recent conversation. The compliance of the Commander was not unsurprising neither the Major’s. Now Alynna was even more convinced that her cause was just. DS9 was their most important outpost, they couldn’t afford to give it up so easily and she would fight tooth and nails to keep it. Today meant a further step in their preparations for the coming war, because she was sure a war was unavoidable. The only question that remained was how the Federation would come out of it. She had meant what she said, Starfleet wasn’t ready to engage in a fight against the Dominion not now maybe not even in a year from now but they could make sure to be better prepared.
With a sigh the Admiral got to her feet and walked into the en-suite for a shower and to change, she was supposed to meet Kate for dinner at DS9 in half an hour.
The Admirals met at a Bolian restaurant, Kate was already waiting at a corner table with a good view of the buzzing of the arrivals and departures. When Alynna took a seat across from her Kate turned a tired smile at her friend.
“You look quite satisfied, if I may say so.“ Pulaski couldn’t help but tease her fellow officer.
“I am“, Alynna admitted. “I believe I will accomplish what I’ve come for.“
“Congratulations.“ Kate raised her glass to her friend.
“How was your day?“
“Fascinating, informative and wearisome.“
“And you liked it.“
“I loved it“, Kate laughed at Alynna´s dry statement. Which caused the other woman to smirk in return.
The waitress arrived to take their orders and soon the women were fully engaged in a delicious meal. Kate told one or the other funny story she had heard from Doctor Bashir which made dinner even more relaxed.
When they were sipping their coffee Admiral Nechayev was surprised to find Major Kira at their table softly clearing her throat to get her attention.
“Major, is there something you need?“ The Admiral asked in a crisp tone.
“I’m sorry to interrupt your dinner, Admiral. But I wanted to talk to you in private, if I may.“ Kira wasn’t in the least put off by the coldness in the Admiral’s demeanour.
Pulaski had an idea what this was all about, so she offered the Major a seat.
“Well, then, sit down Major. Coffee?“
“No, thank you, Admiral.“ Kira took her seat next to Pulaski.
“Well?“ Nechayev was getting impatient.
“You know“, Kira cut to the chase, “you know and that’s why you care enough to tell us.“
“Yes.“ Was all the Admiral said and when they looked at each other an unspoken sympathy passed between them.
“Count me in, Admiral.“ Kira announced without another thought.
“Thank you, Major.“ The Admiral inclined her head.
“No, thank you, Admiral.“
“What for? I didn’t do anything and if you remember it was me who negotiated the treaty with the Cardassians in the first place.“ Nechayev told her bluntly without any emotion in her voice.
“I know, but I also know that you don’t trust them and it was you who talked them into accepting the demilitarised zone and handing over this station. I also know why, then and now.“
“Pray tell Major, what is it you know?“
“The Admiral the Cardassians had captured during the war was you, wasn’t it?“
Nodding her head in confirmation Alynna knew the Major had seen something which caused her to reach out to someone who could relate to her own experiences in the past.
“Be careful ma´am“, Major Kira did mean well, she had a great deal more respect for the older woman now that she knew for certain.
“The Cardassians don’t take it kindly when they are defied.“
“I’m aware of that, Major. But I appreciate your concern, which is rather refreshing for a change.“ Nechayev´s smile reaching her eyes this time.
“You are welcome, Admiral.“ Major Kira smiled in mutual understanding.
“Alynna.“ Nechayev extended her hand towards the Major.
Surprise was clearly visible on the Major’s face now, which caused Nechayev to smile more fully, she liked to keep people on their toes.
“Nerys.“ The Major shook the offered hand. Before she could utter another word though her communicator chirped and Lieutenant Dax´s voice ordered her to the con.
„I have to go. Admiral Pulaski it was a pleasure meeting you. Alynna.“ The Major inclined her head.
“The pleasure was mine.“ Kate honestly said.
“Nerys.“ Nechayev bid the other woman good bye.
The Major left and the Admirals were absorbed with their own thoughts before Pulaski broke the silence.
“Looks like you made a friend today.“
“Yes.“
When Commander Sisko entered his office the next day he was not at all surprised to find Admiral Nechayev already there. She was gazing out the view port behind his desk, not bothering to turn when he entered.
“So what is your answer, Commander?“ Nechayev asked without so much as a greeting.
Remembering Kira´s visit to his quarters late in the evening yesterday, Sisko had been thrown off by the Major’s change in attitude towards his superior officer. But whatever it was, if Kira trusted Nechayev so could he. He didn’t have to like the woman to appreciate her devotion.
“I’m with you on this, Admiral.“
Unbeknownst to the Commander a smile had formed on the Admiral’s face and she felt relieved. It was a risky game, she knew but it couldn’t be helped.
“Thank you, Commander.“ Turning to look into Sisko´s eyes, Nechayev could tell he was still not completely convinced.
“I have to warn you though, it really will be getting worse before it is getting better. The price we all have to pay is going to be high.“
“I am aware of that, ma´am. Major Kira indicated as much, when we talked it over yesterday.“
“Yes, I believe the Major has quite a good understanding of the situation.“ The Admiral had to admit sadly.
“May I ask you something, Admiral?“
“Of course, but I won’t promise to answer it.“
“Why are you doing this?“ Sisko was really eager to know her motives, he didn’t ask out of malice just plain curiosity.
“Because somebody has to.“
“But you never...“, Sisko blurted before he could stop himself.
“I never cared?“ Nechayev completed his sentence, sarcasm was lacing her voice.
“That is not what I meant.“ Sisko felt like a scolded teenager.
“Oh, but it is Commander. I don’t blame you. I have never been the touchy, feely type of officer and I never will be, but I know my duty to Starfleet and to the Federation. And contrary to what people believe, I do have a conscience and even something remotely like a heart. The Bajorans need every help they can get, they deserve it, they have suffered enough through the hands of the Cardassians but I’m afraid their ordeal isn’t over yet.“
“You have my word, Admiral, I will do what I can to convince the Maquis and I will keep you updated on the Dominion.“
“Thank you, Commander.“ The Admiral inclined her head letting her gaze warm considerably and catching the Commander by surprise.
Without another word Admiral Nechayev left Commander Sisko´s office and returned to her ship. Kate was already waiting for her and shortly after the Sovereign set course for earth, with a satisfied Admiral on board, anxious to be back on time for an exhibition in Paris.
TBC