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Date: Wed, 24 Mar 2004 20:15:40 -0600
Subject: [ASCEM-S] NEW TNG Journey To Destiny Chap 3-6 / 17 P/C
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Title: Journey To Destiny
Author: Celeste
Email: celestetyroll@yahoo.co.uk
Fandom: Star Trek TNG
Pairing: Canon (I think) bit of Jean Luc/Other but really tiny
Rating: R
Status: Completed
Beta: Not Betaed
Warnings: Hurt/Comfort
Archive: ASCEM. Others Please Ask.  Email me if want Word Doc.
Disclaimer: Star Trek TNG and its characters are the property of 
Paramount. This story is for entertainment purposes only and no money 
exchanged hands. No copyright infringement is intended. The original 
characters, situations, and story are the property of the author. 
This story may not be posted elsewhere without the consent of the 
author. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is 
coincidental and not intended by the author.
Summary: Jean Luc Picard is abducted. 
is the only fic I ever did for Star Trek. Please enjoy. 
Feedback: Is craved. No flames.
Filesize:  505KB

                                             Chapter 3

Picard was unaware of his transport to the place he now found 
himself, his brain only just starting to recover from the immense 
disruption caused to his central nervous system. Confused and 
fighting waves of pain that churned the contents of his stomach, 
Picard could not unravel the events that had preceded his arrival to 
what appeared to be a transporter room. Dimly perceiving that someone 
held him he struggled against the restricting hands around his upper 
arms, instinctively feeling the need to escape.
"Let me go." he mumbled, his words slurred.
His demand had no effect and Picard felt himself dragged along, 
glimpsing dark corridor walls around him before he was brought to a 
stop at the open doors to a larger circular room.
The light stronger here Picard allowed his eyes to adjust, squinting 
to identify his surroundings. Slowly he recognized the features of 
this room. He was on a bridge, what or whose space ship he had no 
idea. 
Feeling stronger Picard tried to stand on his own, feeling his legs 
shakily take his weight. The two men who had been supporting him, 
released his arms, before pushing past him to take seats at two of 
the bridge stations. Senses slowly sharpening Picard noticed the 
considerable activity and shouting going on. He could hear the 
familiar sound of warp engines engaging and felt the slight thrust of 
acceleration. Memories of the conference shifted into focus in his 
mind. Vague understanding dawning, Picard turned to escape back down 
the corridor to the transporter room he had just left. 
Directly behind him he found a young woman, humanoid, her phaser 
pointing directly at his naked waist. Picard froze.
His newest captor was beautiful, sensuous eyes studying him 
carefully. 
"Araxsi." Picard guessed as his memory flooded back and he recognized 
the terrorist leader's clothing.
The woman responded with a brief nudge of her phaser against him. 
Mentally bowing to its pressure Picard slowly turned to move into the 
room. The movement irritated the wounds on his back, shards of pain 
nearly causing him to stagger. Gritting his teeth, Picard could not 
suppress the groan that escaped him. He stopped dead, belated shock 
creeping up on him as his mind began to recover.
He felt sick.
"You're shivering. Don't move. I'll get you a blanket." The Araxsi 
leader told him unexpectedly.
Moving back down the corridor slightly, the terrorist pressed a 
control pad, releasing a panel in the corridor's walls revealing a 
medical supply. Her phaser still firmly covering Picard the terrorist 
pulled out a blanket.
"Turn round." she ordered.
Mutely Picard obeyed. He felt the blanket rest on his shoulders, the 
insulating material immediately taking effect, its weight on his 
shoulders just bearable. Gritting his teeth he pulled it closer round 
him.
The phaser prodded him and he stepped forward onto the bridge. Picard 
was guided to a chair to one side of the bridge and careful to 
protect his back he sat down sensing the heightened tension around 
him.
"Take your seats. Impact in 60 seconds." a tall thin man ordered from 
a centrally positioned armchair before which sat a display console. 
The commander of the bridge looked round, his sharp eyes spotting 
Picard. 
"Move it, Tal. Get him strapped down. "
"Aye, Captain." Tal Caoussin replied. She threw a seat restraint 
around Picard, over his head and across his chest. Firmly taking 
Picard's left hand she placed it on the armrest. A restraint sprang 
up, locking itself round Picard's wrist. Picard looked into her deep 
brown eyes, their depths studded by emerald, a mute question in his 
own. He was certain she understood his point but a wave of her phaser 
was his only answer. Wearily he placed his other hand on the opposite 
armrest so it too was imprisoned on contact.
"Twenty seconds. Cloak up." a voice commenced a countdown.
The female, Caoussin, flung herself into a chair beside Picard, 
strapping herself in. The bridge was suddenly still, its occupants 
all seated and prepared for impact. A hushed silence fell. Picard 
watched the captain's fingers drum on the console. 
"Five, four." Picard braced himself. Beside him Caoussin's hand 
gripped the arm of her chair.
"All remaining power to shields." The ship's captain ordered calmly.
"One."
A huge explosion from astern smashed against the ship's hull, alarms 
sprang up throughout the bridge, as the ship was pelted with debris. 
Picard was wrenched forward by an incredible force, his head whipping 
forward, before his seat restraint jerked him back. Pain shot through 
him as his muscles screamed against this latest ordeal. A pounding 
began in his temples and beneath the roar he heard himself vent an 
anguished cry. With a supreme effort he cut it off, gritting his 
teeth together. 
As the main shock waves subsided, the personnel on the bridge sprang 
into action. His captor was already out of her chair, manning the 
nearest console, viciously stabbing at panels in front of her.
"Shields down. Keep that cloak up, Caoussin. Marta, transfer all 
power to cloak and warp engines. Trouder. Prepare for Warp six." the 
captain barked.
Picard scanned the bridge, his eyes narrowing as he identified 
several pieces of Romulan technology on board. With the cloaking 
device it gave him a fair idea of the ship's origins. How it had 
reached so far into Federation territory without attracting attention 
before now he had no idea. Pushing a now severe headache to one side, 
his mind tried to unscramble this last event, considering the 
possibility that the terrorists were under attack by the Federation 
in pursuit.
"Got it." Tal Caoussin triumphantly cried whilst continuing to check 
out the data displayed before her.
"Engage." Dentor ordered. 
As they emerged relatively unscathed from the last remnants of the 
explosion, shooting away into warp space, a whoop rang round the 
bridge. Picard's already low spirits dropped even further as hardened 
faces around him broke into short relieved grins. Despite his 
predicament, he had to acknowledge the crew's skill, professionalism 
even, in keeping the vessel intact.
"Cloak down. Power to engines resuming normal levels." Caoussin 
reported now they were safely out of sensor range, 
"Nice work, Dentor." Caoussin commented. The ship's captain turned to 
her, his arm describing a mock bow through the air. His flamboyant 
grin faded as the captain noticed Picard, eyes narrowing into a hard 
stare. Defiant, Picard returned the gaze.
"So this is the infamous Captain Jean-Luc Picard. We have gone to 
considerable trouble to bring you into our happy throng." Dentor 
strode towards him, his words spoken mockingly.
He stopped dead before Picard.
Picard ignored him, fixing his eyes instead on the main view screen, 
absently estimating their speed at warp six from the rapidly 
distancing stars that fell behind them. Dentor suddenly brought his 
face up close so that Picard could feel the warmth of musky breath 
against his ear. 
"You will not cause me any trouble, Picard. You understand?" Dentor's 
threat was spoken mildly. Picard turned his head to glare at this 
latest antagonist.
"Or you'll do what?" Picard hissed contemptuously, cold anger 
flaring. 
Dentor snapped his head back, then snorted as if dismissive of his 
prisoner's insubordination, before looking round as if in search for 
someone.
A tall burly cardassion stepped forward, garbed in the black uniform 
characteristic of the terrorist party who had stormed the Starfleet 
reception barely an hour ago.
Picard felt his throat constrict as he recognized the cardassion as 
the wielder of the neuronic whip.
"Ah, Kalesh." Dentor murmured pleasantly, turning back to face Picard 
with a satisfied expression, but his next comment was clearly 
directed at the cardassion.
"He's all yours."
Picard stiffened as the cardassion replied with a sickly grin before 
moving in two long strides to stand over his helpless prisoner.
Kalesh frowned, then grabbed the end of the blanket round Picard's 
neck. 
"Who gave you this?" he demanded sharply, looking accusingly at 
Dentor who shrugged his shoulders. 
Caoussin stepped forward, a hand subtly resting on her phaser.
"I did. What of it?" 
"You had no right. This is my prisoner."
There was a brief silence. Picard's discomfort grew alongside his 
confusion, but he did not miss the change in Caoussin's demeanor. 
Nor, he noted, did Dentor, Kalesh and the interested crew scattered 
throughout the bridge.
Stepping aggressively forward the female terrorist spat her next 
words directly into the cardassion's surprised face.
"Let me make one thing perfectly clear, Kalesh. I do not like you or 
your sick, sadistic methods." 
Caoussin pressed a step forward forcing Kalesh to step back, a 
nervous laugh from one of the female crew ignored. Her tone venomous 
she continued her fearless attack.
"I will make it my business to watch you Kalesh, and if I think you 
go too far I will make sure you know about it. I have invested much 
in this job and I will not let you jeopardize it. Got that?" 
Holding the cardassian's gaze long enough to ensure the message got 
home, Caoussin then looked challengingly around the rest of the crew 
stopping when she reached Dentor.
Picard fully expected the ship's captain to assert his position but 
to his surprise Dentor appeared to be amused by Caoussin's outburst 
and merely shrugged his shoulders. Clearly Dentor cared little for 
the cardassion himself.
"Dentor, are you going to let her get away with that?" the cardassion 
protested. His eyes narrowed as both Caoussin and Dentor turned his 
back on him signaling to the rest of the crew to do likewise.
"I'm sure you can fight your own battles, Kalesh. Leave me out of 
it." Dentor threw back over his shoulder. 
Kalesh glowered at Caoussin's back before turning his angry face to 
Picard. The human flinched, unable to help himself as Kalesh reached 
towards him. The memory of his treatment at this criminal's hands 
still haunted him but Kalesh merely released his restraints. 
"Get up." Kalesh ordered, a hand pointedly hovering over the phaser 
clipped to the huge belt encircling the cardassion's large torso . 
Picard stood up slowly, partly out of deference to his wounds but 
also to express his own contempt for Kalesh.
"Don't push me too far, human." Kalesh warned him, eyes narrowed. 
With a quick gesture the cardassion indicated Picard should proceed 
him out of the bridge. Picard felt the blanket draped round his 
shoulders slipping and reached a hand up to check its fall. Tugging 
it back in place Picard moved in the direction indicated, glancing at 
the data displayed on the consoles they passed. The ship was 
definitely Romulan he decided recognizing some of the symbols 
displayed which was surprising given the variety of species 
represented by the crew of this vessel. A rough shove against his 
back sent him stumbling through the bridge doors as Kalesh noted his 
surreptitious glances at the consoles. Picard gritted his teeth 
refusing to let Kalesh see how much his treatment of Picard at the 
reception below continued to trouble him. He did not believe he would 
receive any medical treatment to heal the sore wounds across his back 
or reduce the aftereffects from the onslaught on his neural system 
and every instinct in him refused to betray to his captors the extent 
of his discomfort. 
The cardassion continued to harass him through the ships corridors so 
Picard barely noted the pale grey and cold metallic walls. After a 
few turns Kalesh stopped him at a door before pressing a security 
panel beside it with the palm of his hand. The doors parted, opening 
on to a bare room except for a single chair placed in its center. 
Picard shivered as he entered following a none too gentle prod from 
Kalesh, the temperature inside was definitely below normal. Kalesh 
followed him in and the doors closed automatically with barely a 
sound. Picard gazed round appraisingly before slowly turning to face 
the cardassion who stood silently observing him with glittering black 
eyes. The sight of that empty chair lingered ominously in his mind's 
eye.
Picard did not want to consider the future it indicated for him in 
this cheerless room but any hopes he might have had of a better one 
were dashed by the cruel and twisted features of the alien that stood 
before him. An alien certain to dominate his imprisonment on this 
cloaked ship heading at great speed on a journey far from Picard's 
home world and his life in Starfleet.

Chapter 4

On the Starship Enterprise, following his release from the unwanted 
attentions of Harcon and his investigation into the terrorist attack, 
Commander Riker prepared to attend his own conference with the ship's 
senior officers in the briefing room.
In the few hours since their return to the familiar territory of the 
Enterprise various members of the crew had been busy with their own 
investigations into the events of the last ten hours. Right now Riker 
was grabbing a much needed shower in his quarters before changing 
into his less formal duty uniform. 
With the loss of Captain Picard, Riker had command of the Enterprise 
and the responsibility weighed on him as his mind grappled to come to 
terms with the grief that threatened to overwhelm him at the loss of 
a friend and mentor, as well as his captain. With a final tug on his 
uniform, which briefly brought a smile to his face at the memory of 
Picard this invoked, Riker left his quarters to make his way to the 
bridge. Captain Picard had straightened his uniform almost as a 
matter of course whenever he stood up.
Nodding briefly to the somber crew members he passed in the ship's 
corridors Riker finally acquired the relative peace of the turbo 
lift. To Riker, impatient to get to work, the turbo lift seemed to 
take twice as long to reach the bridge as normal. The doors opened 
and he stepped onto the bridge. Lieutenant Commander Data, still in 
command on the bridge, rose from the command chair, but Riker 
motioned the android to stay put, making his way instead to the 
captain's ready room. He could feel the Data and the rest of the 
bridge crew watch him go in. 
Safely inside, Riker released his pent up breath and looked around. 
The room seemed as much Picard's as it had ever done, the captain's 
exotic fish swimming in the display tank inset into the walls. It was 
not the first time Riker had been obliged to take his place in the 
ready room as the acting captain of the Starship Enterprise, but each 
time had been difficult. This time was no different. With a mental 
salute to its former occupant Riker straightened and in a few long 
strides had reached the captain's desk. Quickly he sat down and 
activated the console. The codes throughout the ship had already been 
altered as was standard following the loss of Starfleet command 
officers in unusual circumstances. Quickly Riker accessed  the 
captain's log and rapidly brought it up to date. Once this 
uncomfortable task had been completed he scanned the various reports 
that had been directed to the captain noting with interest reports on 
the activity around Earth's orbit since the arrival of the terrorists 
on Earth. Reports had been filed within seconds of the lost 
communication with the conference Riker noted, entering a short note 
commending Lt. Commander Data's quick response.
In just ten minutes Riker was up to date and had memorized the 
pertinent facts recorded. Noting it was time to join the others in 
the conference room he stood up. As he passed through the bridge Data 
relinquished command to the duty officer on helm and followed him to 
the ship's conference room dominated by a long curving table 
containing display consoles inset into its surface for the use of 
those sitting at it.
The atmosphere was subdued and the officers present looked tense. 
Counselor Troi in particular looked pale and drawn. Medical treatment 
had reversed the effects of the poisoning she had suffered but the 
Counselor looked far from being fully recovered with the additional 
strain of returning immediately to duty. Riker could only guess at 
the difficulties of counseling the ship's crew at this time. Lt. 
Commander Geordi La Forge, the ship's Chief Engineer, looked 
untypically glum and the Klingon, Lieutenant Worf, fairly glowered 
with concealed emotion. Only Data looked his normal self.
Dr. Crusher was the last to arrive, mumbling a brief apology for 
being late, something about some medical emergency. She did not 
elaborate so clearly Riker did not need to concern himself with it. 
He nodded and Crusher took her customary seat that had been left 
vacant. Also vacant was the chair at the head of the table. Riker sat 
in it. He looked at the expectant faces that stared at him and the 
few words he had mentally rehearsed on his way seemed false and 
empty. Searching for words he began.
"I very much regret having to call this meeting. Reports of Captain 
Picard's death have been widely broadcast and it has been a great 
shock to all the crew. I am very aware that we have our jobs to get 
on with and that will not be easy right now."
"However,  I feel that at the very least we owe it to Captain Picard 
to study the circumstances, to find an explanation for what has 
happened. Personally I find the destruction of the terrorist's escape 
ship ..." he paused searching for the right word, "..odd."
He stopped, not sure if he had expressed himself clearly but his 
audience looked supportive and interested in what he wanted to say so 
he pressed on. Forcing a more business like tone to his voice he 
asked Data to fill them in on his analysis. The android leaned 
forward. 
"As you are all aware, I managed to fix a trace on the terrorist's 
escape transport signal and traced it to a space cruiser on the edges 
of Earth's orbit. The signal was encrypted and consequently 
unreadable by standard Federation transport systems resulting in 
Federation Security's failure to lock in on the transport."
La Forge raised his hand to interrupt.
"How did you trace the signal then?" the engineer asked interested.
"I was applying traces to all signals emanating from and to Earth, 
sweeping all frequencies continuously, following the hijacking of the 
Starfleet conference. Although the data was unintelligible the trace 
was able to be hooked on. Because of the strange nature of the data, 
Lt. Worf monitored the cruiser closely and noted its disappearance 
whilst traveling at full impulse speed in a manner consistent with 
the use of a cloaking device. Subsequent analysis confirms this, and 
that the cloaking appears to be Romulan in nature."
Data stood up and requested the computer to display a section of 
space as scanned at the time of the terrorist's escape. Immediately 
the wall display screen lit up, empty except for a proliferation of 
stars in the familiar patterns of the Milky Way from Earth's 
perspective.
"This." Data continued. "is the visual scan taken just before the 
explosion resulting in the  reported death of Captain Picard and the 
terrorists. The area of space depicted follows the extrapolated path 
of the space vessel's heading after it cloaked."
Data allowed the sequence to run resulting in a sudden burst of 
light, that looked just like a ship being blown apart. Data stopped 
the sequence and reran it. La Forge leaned forward, intently 
following the slowed replay with the benefit of his visor's ability 
to analyze the electromagnetic spectrum and the specialist 
engineering knowledge of his field . 
"There's something not quite right." he stated with conviction, "but 
I'm not quite sure what." he admitted.
Data nodded in agreement. 
"It took some time but my analysis admits the possibility of the 
explosion resulting from a ship on a heading inconsistent with that 
extrapolated from the cruiser receiving the transport signal. In 
addition there are some strange readings from the scanners, which 
when analyzed show a spaceship configuration consistent with the 
cruiser for a time period equivalent to 0.5 nano seconds."
"I don't understand." Troi jumped in. "Don't we expect the ship to be 
there. Presumably the cloaking device was destroyed by the explosion."
"Correct." replied Data, "but the main blast of the explosion had 
taken place micro seconds before the cloak failed. It is highly 
unlikely that the vessel was still so intact at that point."
"Then what did explode?" Dr. Crusher asked intently.
Lieutenant Worf. answered.
"Commander Data and I ran some scenarios by the computer to try and 
explain the readings taken. On my home planet there was a popular 
game of dare amongst the younger people. Two, three or more would 
take a land vehicle to the desert and charge at each other, timing 
their speed to miss the others by a fraction. It took great skill and 
courage to get it just right. Many died." Worf added for the benefit 
of Dr. Crusher who looked outraged. Riker hid a smile before 
gesturing Worf to continue.
"We tried the same principle here, placing two identical ships, on 
two similar headings, aiming to cross and pass each other at 
incredible speed with less than seconds to spare." The klingon paused 
for effect. "It worked too."
"And which ship was Captain Picard on?" Troi asked. Everyone's 
attention hung on the answer. Data supplied the desired information.
"The ship that decloaked briefly after the explosion, assuming the 
signal tracked to the cruiser was the transport signal we believe it 
is. The cruiser was still heading on the extrapolated path plotted by 
the computer. It is possible that the cloaked vessel then initiated 
warp speed for a short period of time, seconds even, before power 
levels fail. There has been no trace of the crusier detected since. 
It is unlikely that it remained in the vicinity."
There was a general release of air around the table as the 
implications sunk in. 
"Have we any confirmation of this?" Riker asked,  hope warring with 
cold reason. 
Lieutenant Worf nodded. 
"Just before we convened I received a report from Federation Security 
who are investigating the site of the explosion. No traces of organic 
tissue consistent with humanoid tissue. This has not been deemed 
conclusive of anything by the investigators due to the nature of a 
nuclear explosion but the findings are consistent with our analysis 
here."
"So you believe that Captain Picard is still alive?" Crusher asked 
her eyes alight with hope. The light dimmed. "But still a prisoner 
with some very ruthless criminals. How can we find them now?" she 
pondered turning to Riker.
Riker did not reply, watching the replay of the explosion which Data 
was rerunning for them to watch again. He visualized in his mind the 
two cloaked vessels moving together on a course designed to cross, 
missing each other by a fraction at full speed, one presumably empty 
and rigged to destroy itself in a nuclear explosion, possibly 
triggered by remote control. The explosion would have rocked the 
terrorists escape ship, causing it to decloak for a  fraction of 
time. The only error in the whole devious operation.
"It requires incredible precision." he declared. "but it is a 
possibility and if there is a chance Captain Picard is alive we are 
going to find him."
Worf bristled with indignation.
"If the Enterprise had been cleared to follow we may still know where 
they were headed. As it is they could be anywhere now and all 
Federation Security is doing is investigating the remains of an empty 
ship."
"What do you intend to do?" Counselor Troi turned to Riker. A little 
color had returned to her cheeks, he noticed. Everyone seemed happier 
now they had some hope to cling to. He prayed to God they were right.
"I will file a report with Starfleet Command detailing our findings 
and requesting permission to begin an immediate search for the 
terrorists. In the meantime consider this information classified and 
continue your duties as if nothing had changed. I do not want to 
raise hopes prematurely throughout the ship." Riker replied, 
addressing them all. He stood up. 
"Commander Data. Please continue your analysis with Lieutenant Worf. 
I want you to study every aspect of this event. For instance, why was 
Counselor Troi poisoned? What was the terrorist's interest in the 
captain? Lieutenant Worf. See what else you can find out from 
Federation Security. I want full reports for oh nine hundred hours 
tomorrow morning when we will reconvene this meeting. If no one has 
anything else?" He paused briefly before continuing. "Good work, 
Data, Worf. Dismissed."
As they all trooped out buzzing with ideas Riker slowly sat down, 
placing his hands on the smooth rounded edge of the table, gripping 
it tightly, before releasing the tension in them, feeling his 
shoulders relax. Slowly he exhaled. Finally he could do something. 
Suddenly rising to his feet he strode to the captains's ready room, 
and for once not feeling the customary awkwardness he felt when newly 
filling the captain's chair in such situations, he immediately sat 
down to file his report. 
   
Admiral Nogura frowned. He was back in his office analyzing the 
hundreds of reports crossing his desk. His intelligence staff were 
fielding the thousands currently flowing through the federation from 
various sources including Starfleet and the media. Blakeney was 
ensuring Intelligence received all political communications and 
Klaxos was supplying the latest reports from his investigations. All 
these reports were analyzed, collated and summaries supplied to 
Nogura so he could sift through those highlighted for his attention 
by an experienced and thorough intelligence team.
This last report had been highlighted red on his screen requiring his 
immediate attention and dutifully he had accessed it immediately. He 
had noted the sender was Commander Riker from the Starship Enterprise 
and his interest had piqued as he studied it carefully. Now he sat 
back, eyes closed, his hands folded and resting lightly on his 
slightly overweight belly. 
The report was very thorough and Admiral Nogura was impressed at the 
android Data's analysis of the situation. Captain Picard had always 
been good at bringing together a superb crew, usually little to do 
with luck but more to do with good leadership.
Right now Intelligence was running their own analysis to confirm the 
findings. It was still a strong possibility, despite the android's 
inherent objectiveness, that  the crew of the Enterprise were 
clutching at straws. But if they were not, then it answered a few of  
Nogura's own questions and raised a few more. Hence Nogura's concern. 
Assuming Intelligence corroborated the Enterprise's findings, Nogura 
did not want the Enterprise set loose on the terrorist's trail, 
potentially making Jasper's position more difficult. From his records 
Commander Riker was not an officer to give up easily. In addition 
Jasper would be expecting Nogura to provide discreet back up.
At the same time it was imperative to maintain the official story 
that the terrorists had died during their escape with the tragic loss 
of a Starfleet officer. Nogura was certain that Jasper had maneuvered 
events to provide the federation with a way out of the political 
minefield that was bound to follow the successful hijacking of 
Starfleet's own, with the additional benefit of providing a false 
sense of security to the terrorist organization behind the outrage.
It left a fragile status quo Nogura did not want threatened, 
especially now Picard was involved.
Nogura made his decision. For several minutes he busied himself at 
his computer, preparing his orders and easing the way with Starfleet 
and Federation Security. Finally he produced a sealed disk. Easing 
his bulk out of his comfortable armchair Nogura straightened, 
stretching tired muscles. The door to his office chimed.
"Enter." he replied.
Commander Uroyas entered, a young beautiful Vulcan female whose 
lovely features never failed to distract the unwary from the razor 
sharp abilities of her intellect.
"Admiral." Uroyas greeted him. "A fine piece of work by the 
Enterprise. Our analysis finds no fault with Lt. Commander Data's 
findings. The possibility that the terrorist's ship escaped intact 
are sixty four point zero five to one approximately. It is my 
recommendation to proceed on the assumption that the terrorists and 
possibly Captain Picard are alive."
"Thank you, Commander." Nogura replied, scanning the datapad Uroyas 
handed him.
"If that is all, sir?" 
Nogura looked up.
"Actually no, Commander. As it happens I  would like you to accompany 
me on a trip to the Enterprise. Come. I will explain on the way."
Before finally leaving his office with the vulcan commander Nogura 
requested his personal aide to let Commander Riker know to expect him 
onboard the Enterprise. No fuss.  

Fifteen minutes later the Admiral and Commander Uroyas beamed aboard 
the Enterprise to Transporter Room One where Commander Riker waited 
impatiently. Other than the arrivals the rooms only other occupant 
was the transporter chief. Standing to attention Commander Riker 
greeted Admiral Nogura, nodding courteously to the Vulcan Commander 
who accompanied him.
"Commander Riker, I'm very pleased to meet you. I am only sorry that 
it has to be in such circumstances." Admiral Nogura returned 
genially. "Let me introduce you to Commander Uroyas." 
Uroyas regarded the six foot Riker gravely, before extending a hand.
Riker shook it briefly, Vulcans were not inclined to touch. 
"Commander." he acknowledged.
Turning to the closed doors leading to the corridor, Riker gestured 
his guests to accompany him. 
"I thought we would be more comfortable in the ship's conference 
lounge." Riker explained leading the way. Both Nogura and Uroyas 
studied with intense interest the layout of the Enterprise, 
Starfleet's flagship.
At the door to the Conference lounge Riker stood back to let his 
guests through, before entering after them. The door silently closed 
behind him.
"I have to admit to surprise at your quick response to my report. To 
be honest I expected Security would be contacting us." Riker admitted.
"Ah. Intelligence have a considerable interest in this case and I am 
in full cooperation with Federation Security in this matter." Nogura 
explained.
 "Perhaps you have information that would help us track the 
terrorist's escape ship?" Riker asked intently. 
The Admiral settled himself into his chair.
"I read your report, Commander." he began, seemingly ignoring Riker's 
question, his voice taking on a grave tone. "Your officers have 
carried out a first rate investigation. However, that report has not 
been substantiated by the official investigation team. It is 
considered that your crew obviously hold deep affection for Captain 
Picard and that this has colored your views."
Riker raised a hand, swallowing down his anger at this dismissal of 
his officer's abilities to maintain their objectivity. But the 
Admiral overrode his forthcoming protest by raising a solitary finger 
and pushing on.
"That will be the official story." The word official was clearly 
stressed. 
With a sudden certainty that the Admiral was not opposing him Riker 
relaxed slightly and sat back in his chair.
"I'm listening." he offered.
Nogura leaned forward, his eyes pinning Riker's, so Riker felt forced 
to return the gaze or betray nervousness. Commander Uroyas had barely 
flickered a muscle since she had sat down, but far from looking tense 
she appeared poised and relaxed. Riker envied her composure.
"It is of utmost importance in the interests of federation security 
that the terrorist's illusion of destruction is maintained. 
Politically it is vital that federation policy on terrorism remains 
intact. For the federation to witness terrorist demands being met 
with the perpetrators then escaping ... well, you must see this is 
potentially very damaging."
Riker frowned, unable to maintain his silence but forcing himself to 
maintain a polite tone.
"And Captain Picard? How does his fate fit in with the politics of 
this situation?"
Nogura sat back, his concentration on Riker seeming to abate 
slightly. Not for a moment did Riker believe Nogura had lessened his 
observation of him.
"Well, that is not all. It is even more vital that an operation 
related to this crime is not threatened in any way."
"May I ask what the nature of this operation is?" Riker probed, 
carefully maintaining a blank mask that hid his very real fear that 
he was being led astray in some way. 
"We do not know the nature." Admiral Nogura paused for effect. Riker 
noticed that Uroyas seemed more alert too. Perhaps he was not the 
only one in this room that felt bewildered. He suspected the Admiral 
had a flair for the dramatics and he resisted the urge to shake the 
information out of him. Fortunately Nogura continued.
"Except that this act of terrorism is related and that Captain Picard 
is somehow involved. For what reason we have no idea. This is what I 
want you to find out."
Riker sat up, taken aback by the admiral's final statement, his eyes 
reflecting his sudden interest.
"Your mission is Priority One classified and is contained in these 
sealed orders." Nogura produced a slender disk which he placed 
carefully on the table before him. "These orders are classified from 
all but your most senior trusted officers. Your official mission will 
be to assist Commander Uroyas as an official representative of the 
investigating team. Commander Uroyas will in fact act as your 
advisor, but understand she also has her own orders to fulfill. If 
and when appropriate Commander Uroyas's mission will take priority 
over that concealed here." Admiral Nogura nodded at the disk. He 
stood up to leave.
Immediately Riker stood up to join him, his mind teeming with 
questions to ask.
"Sir? Do you believe Captain Picard is alive?" Riker finally spoke 
the thought foremost in his mind.
Admiral Nogura turned to face him, his craggy face appearing to 
soften momentarily.
"I hope to God he is, Commander Riker. I knew your Captain quite well 
once. Which is why I am glad that it is the Enterprise that has this 
mission. I know you will do your best."  
The unexpected warmth touched Riker and he felt a creeping respect 
for Nogura grow. As Nogura reached the door, he paused, turning round 
to face Riker directly.
"Oh, by the way. You are hereby promoted to Field Captain of the 
Enterprise for the duration of this mission. My congratulations and 
good luck."
"Sir." Riker straightened, briefly showing his pleasure at the 
promotion, however temporary.
"And thank you."
Nogura nodded before turning to Commander Uroyas who was also 
standing. 
"Commander." he said by way of a simple farewell. Uroyas nodded 
gravely.
"I'll see myself out." the Admiral told Riker, forestalling the newly 
promoted captain's intention to accompany Nogura to the transporter 
room. The door closed behind him.
Riker turned to find Commander Uroyas at his elbow.
"May I offer my congratulations, Captain. Please let me assure you I 
intend to offer you as much assistance as I can in finding Captain 
Picard." 
Commander Riker studied the classically shaped face, pointed dark 
eyebrows delicately framing deep black eyes. Suddenly he relaxed, her 
words were sincere and he was gratified to detect a hint of warmth in 
her otherwise cool and appraising eyes.
"Welcome aboard, Commander. I will have Commander Data assign you 
your quarters. Do you have any personal belongings you wish to bring 
onboard?"
"I do. It is ready to beam up."
"Data will arrange that too. Let me introduce you to him and then I 
have to admit I am eager to study these orders." He indicated the 
disk lying on the table. "Are you familiar with the contents?"
"Admiral Nogura gave me a brief summary. I will be glad to discuss 
them with you if you wish." Uroyas offered.
Riker smiled, gesturing to the door that would lead them directly to 
the bridge where Data currently sat in command. 
"I think I had better read them first." he pointed out.
The Vulcan Commander took no offense.
On the bridge Riker introduced Uroyas to Data before retreating to 
his ready room. With a sigh of relief he inserted the disk into the 
file reader and settled down to study its contents. A slight frown 
furrowed his forehead, the information Nogura had to supply on the 
terrorists was sketchy at best. The Enterprise was going to be very 
much on its own despite the addition of Uroyas to their number. Riker 
hoped very much that tomorrow's scheduled briefing would prove more 
illuminating.

Chapter 5

When Riker entered the conference lounge at zero nine hundred hours 
precisely he was gratified to see everyone present and waiting. 
Commander Uroyas had joined them at his request and sat beside Data. 
Riker was pleased to see she appeared to have settled in reasonably 
quickly and was currently engaged in a vivid discussion with Data. As 
he moved to take his seat Riker caught part of  their conversation. 
Data was in full flow on the error parameters used in the computer's 
simulation of a vessel moving through space at warp speed. 
Fascinating at any time thought Riker wryly. Polite silence fell as 
he took his seat at the head of the table.
"Good morning." Riker began, his gaze roaming the table. "You have 
all met Commander Uroyas who has joined us to assist our 
investigation into the disappearance of the terrorist's escape ship 
and Captain Picard, so let's get down to business." 
Quickly Riker updated them on Admiral Nogura's orders emphasizing 
that a strict communications black out on the possibility of the 
terrorists being alive was  to be operated. Classified information on 
the investigation would be on a need to know basis only.
"These are orders imposed on us by Admiral Nogura." Riker 
explained, "and ones I fully support. Until we have positive proof of 
Captain Picard's survival I do not want to give false hope to this 
ship's crew. More importantly, communications from this ship with 
friends and family may innocently let slip something that finds its 
way into the terrorist network eliminating our only advantage."
"This advantage being that the Araxsi believe Starfleet will not be 
looking for them?" Dr. Crusher queried.
"Exactly." Riker confirmed.
"I don't fully understand Federation Security's position in this?" La 
Forge interrupted with a sidelong glance at Uroyas. "Exactly how much 
was known in advance about this terrorist operation? For instance, I 
never understood why Security gave into the Araxsi's demands so 
quickly, despite the circumstances. Until now policy on terrorism 
within federation territory has never been compromised."
"This is true." Data agreed. "I have studied all recorded incidents 
of terrorist hostage situations within the past fifty years and in 
all of these incidents federation policy has been firmly upheld."
"Captain. If I may?" Uroyas interjected. 
Riker nodded. Commander Uroyas placed her wrists on the edge of the 
table, her fingertips joined to form an arch. Her voice was firm and 
her manner composed.
"Intelligence was forewarned of a possible terrorist threat four days 
ago. However the parameters and targets were unknown. The information 
received indicated that this attack was part of a more serious threat 
to federation security. It was agreed at the highest levels that 
learning more about the organization behind the Araxsi's appearance 
was more important than policy in this instance. In addition it was 
impossible to ignore the pressure applied by the terrorist's abuse of 
Captain Picard."
"It is difficult to see how federation policy would have prevented 
Captain Picard's fate in the circumstances." Data pointed out. 
"What else do you know, Commander Uroyas?" Riker inquired, 
uncomfortable with the explanation given by the Intelligence 
representative, but unable to pinpoint any reason behind his 
disquiet. "With your permission, Captain, I would like hear your 
officer's reports first. It will enable me to give you as much help 
as I am authorized to at the present time."
Riker mulled on this for a moment, suppressing his natural instinct 
to inquire what other agendas Intelligence had in mind. However, he 
realized that this would be an unfair position to place Uroyas in and 
she seemed genuinely keen to help.
"Very well." he concurred a trifle reluctantly. He turned to the 
ship's chief medical officer. "Dr. Crusher. Perhaps you could start."
Crusher nodded, her fiery hair bobbing gently on her shoulders.
"My analysis of the drug administered to Counselor Troi has 
determined a concoction of a particularly potent food poison, 
inducing severe stomach cramps and low blood pressure mixed with a 
sedative to provoke drowsiness and disorientation. The effects are 
purely transitory and at the doses administered effective for 
approximately seventy minutes." Crusher glanced at Troi 
sympathetically before continuing.
"The purpose behind this seems twofold. One, Counselor Troi provided 
a distraction for the terrorists arrival. Two, Deanna's empathic 
abilities were severely restricted. The counselor has undergone 
regression therapy to try and recall her memories and impressions. 
There is very little, just brief flickers of awareness."
Uroyas intervened. "This suggests a significant amount of preparation 
by the terrorists and inside knowledge on seating arrangements and 
the guest list. Your findings concur with Federation Security's 
investigation, but your observations on Counselor Troi's empathic 
abilities is very interesting."      
"How was the poison initially administered?" Riker asked.
"Chocolate." Troi admitted sheepishly. "Someone knew me very well and 
I couldn't resist."
She shuddered. "Never again. I was feeling a little better just 
before the Captain was shot, which was when the second shot was given 
using a hypo gun."
"The chocolate contained very minute quantities of the drug to reduce 
its effect on the chocolate's taste." Uroyas explained. "A booster 
was thus required."
Troi nodded. For once her curly black hair was scraped back and held 
in a convoluted knot behind her head which was unable to fully 
contain a few tendrils that escaped at random. She continued, her 
eyes intently scanning the group sat around the table.
"I do remember a fleeting impression of the female who injected me. A 
sense of distance but  still keenly focused. The impression was 
consistent with someone who is used to repressing their emotions."
"Anything else, Counselor?" Riker pressed. Troi shook her head firmly.
"What about the suggestion of an insider?" Riker threw out randomly.
Lt. Worf sat up straighter.
"All personnel except for one waiter have all been checked out by 
Earth Security. This waiter proved to have false credentials and has 
since disappeared. He was not caught up in the hijacking itself and 
made his escape well before security had been alerted." the klingon  
explained. His frustration was all too apparent. Riker glanced at 
Uroyas who shook her head.
"We suspect the waiter was well disguised. No trace has been found."
Riker turned back to Dr. Crusher.
"Doctor, what about the chip the Araxsi used on Captain Picard." 
Crusher's deep green eyes darkened with anger as she recalled the 
injury inflicted.
"As you know the scanner I used was confiscated." Again no evidence 
Riker thought, frustrated at the efficiency the Araxsi had displayed. 
Crusher continued.
"But the chip required expert knowledge of artificial organ 
replacements, possibly someone involved in their manufacture or in 
the medical profession, to ensure the chip could replicate itself 
into the  structure. The inclusion of a miniature nuclear device 
capable of remote detonation would require weapons expertise. However 
before the Araxsi leader took the tricorder from me I managed to scan 
her briefly." 
Riker sat up, noticing a similar reaction around the table. He felt 
his pulse quicken.
"Doctor. That was highly risky." Uroyas rebuked. "If the tricorder 
had been checked!"
"Well, I had to do something." Crusher replied defensively. "I was 
able to check out the reading later when I was allowed to give the 
captain medical assistance. The scan was very basic but I did spot a 
small anomaly in her blood type. I spent last night researching the 
pattern with all known blood types throughout the federation limiting 
the search to humanoid species. Please remember I have only my memory 
to rely on so there is room for error... but I am certain it matches 
a type associated with a racial genetic trait descended from the 
Tibetian race from Earth.
"I then requested the computer to run a search against all records 
with a match for this abnormality. There are ten thousand matches. 
The computer next eliminated all males, females under twenty and over 
forty before cross referencing history etc. This is where we get 
really lucky. The profile narrowed down to one woman, human and from 
Earth. Her name is Talinka Caoussin and she comes from a well 
respected family with a strong Starfleet background."
Crusher paused, her audience was riveted. 
"Talinka Caoussin completed her final year at Starfleet Academy ten 
years ago." she informed them pointedly.
Riker blinked at this unexpected information. Crusher requested the 
computer to display Caoussin's file and the wall display lit up with 
a young, beautiful woman, proudly wearing the uniform of a Starfleet 
cadet from twelve years ago. A soft smile hovered around her lips and 
dark brown eyes appeared to sparkle. She was certainly striking 
thought Riker swiveling his chair to take a clear look. Crusher left 
the display up while she continued, its innocence a bittersweet 
contrast to the story that followed.  
"Caoussin was top of her class receiving the highest marks awarded 
for six years. Then the bubble burst. Starfleet Academy discovered 
evidence of cheating in the final exams. In the uproar that followed 
Caoussin was summarily expelled and thrown out of Starfleet in 
disgrace. The family were terribly ashamed and, purely reading 
between the lines, pulled some strings to avoid an actual court 
martial."
Geordi La Forge released a low whistle. 
"What a way to finish a glittering career before it had even begun." 
he commented.
"Do you believe she has a grudge against Starfleet?" Riker asked.
"Undoubtedly. Not only that, Caoussin disappeared for two years, 
there are few records of her activity as a citizen, just transport 
records to various planets.  For one year the trail disappears 
entirely. The next record on her is a security report from Dentos 3 
near the Romulan border. She had fallen in with a group of drug 
runners in the sector. Following this there are several reports 
suggesting her involvement in major criminal activity, never proven, 
escalating up to terrorism on a grand scale. She is rumored to have 
expert electronics knowledge and to be a brilliant strategist."
"This is excellent work, Doctor." Riker commented. 
"None of this would ever hold up in a federation court of law." 
Crusher pointed out. "The only evidence is a memorized blood type 
pattern. No proof."
Riker turned to Troi.
"Do you believe this is the same person?" he asked, not holding out 
much hope. He wasn't surprised by her frown.
"I've no reason not to think so, but there is no way I could be 
sure." she replied.
"Caoussin is a known terrorist." Uroyas offered, "and would certainly 
be capable of leading the hijacking. This is a considerable step 
forward and I will send this data back to Intelligence for further 
analysis as a Priority One."
Riker nodded before deciding to move swiftly on, requesting the 
computer to close Caoussin's file. The wall screen darkened instantly 
to its former bland color.
"Commander Data, what can you tell us?"
Data nodded.
"I have focused my attention on the terrorist's access and subsequent 
escape from the reception hall. Quite sophisticated."
Data described how the terrorists had used a transporter to beam 
directly into a locked sidearm off the entrance. 
"A portable transporter was discovered inside which Security believe 
was used to facilitate the terrorist's transport into the reception 
hall. From the sideroom the terrorists were in a position to monitor 
events and presumably time their arrival to coincide with the 
diversion engineered  by poisoning Counselor Troi."
"Why was their unauthorized transport not detected."  Riker asked.
"I did not at first understand how the transport circumvented the 
security shielding in the area. I eventually narrowed the 
possibilities to the obvious. Another insider." Data replied. Worf 
picked up the thread.
"Like the waiter." he growled. "Except this one was traceable. Lt. 
Eantor Harget has not reported for duty since the hijacking and 
security have not yet managed to locate him. Lt. Eantor was a 
computer technician and in a position to provide the terrorists with 
codes, sufficient for someone with an expert knowledge of transporter 
systems to ensure the unauthorized transport was not reported. 
Investigations into Harget's personal life has uncovered huge 
gambling debts, incurred illegally. It requires little imagination to 
assume bribery was used." Worf concluded .
A short silence fell. Riker mulled the facts in his mind. So far this 
information was all very useful and began to profile the terrorists 
and their capabilities but it did not help them work out where to 
start looking for the terrorists now. Presently the Enterprise was 
following the heading taken by the terrorists before their ship 
cloaked as this was their only possible option. Riker needed more. He 
was desperately concerned that their chances of finding Picard alive 
reduced as more time slipped by. Counselor Troi clearly sensed his 
feelings.
"Perhaps we should keep going." she suggested. "Data. How did the 
terrorists escape?"
"The terrorists were able to signal their escape cruiser and 
transport out in the same manner as they transported in, by utilizing 
the codes Harget must have provided. The transport was detected 
immediately by the Enterprise and Security because all signals were 
being monitored. However the transporter signal was embedded within 
an encrypted code and impossible to interfere with other than to 
trace it."
"Clearly the Araxsi are extremely well equipped." Worf added, his 
eyes darkening with frustration. "To be fair to Federation Security 
the Araxsi had state of the art technology at their disposal which 
produced a force field unpenetrable by federation standard sensor 
scans. The only sensor recordings are those initiated by the Araxsi." 
The klingon security chief shook his head with some envy.
"What about the Araxsi's ship?" Riker asked. 
"A galactic cruiser, configuration unknown. However the sensor scans 
taken from the Enterprise clearly identifies several Romulan features 
which, with its cloaking ability, suggests Romulan origin. Our 
attempts to internally scan it were blocked. Checks with Earth show 
it to be logged as a trading vessel which arrived thirty minutes 
prior to the reception. The standard checks were routine and 
suggested nothing unusual. It identified itself as The Silken Thread, 
Captain Abe Wroster. Both identities have not, yet, been 
substantiated. Crosschecks with vessels in orbit over the last 3 
months show The Silken Thread was in Earth's orbit four days ago, 
possibly to contact Eantor Harget and maybe our missing waiter."
"This is one hell of an operation the Araxsi have going. It makes 
Starfleet look like child's play." Riker commented, his voice edged 
with frustration.
"The timing of the operation was critical." Commander Uroyas 
observed. "From the arrival of the Araxsi vessel through to the 
escape and subsequent illusion of destruction. All required precise 
timing to be certain Security did not uncover the Araxsi's ability to 
control Earth's shields before the operation was completed. It may 
explain their use of Captain Picard to force the federation to meet 
their demands promptly."
"But why take him with them?" Riker persisted. 
Complete silence met his question. Riker signed leaning back in his 
chair thinking carefully. In his mind's eye he listed all the 
unknowns still left. One of them had to contain a clue.
"Commander Uroyas. Do you have any information on the purpose behind 
the Araxsi's demands to release these political prisoners?" he tried 
first.
"Yes, Captain. Pakrak Sish was arrested as a Romulan spy working 
undercover in a federation facility three months ago. His father is a 
member of the T'Shay Council. We suspect his release was the primary 
demand as the others are professional criminals, possibly useful to 
the Araxsi for future operations, but otherwise uninteresting. Their 
releases were irreversible once the governors of their respective 
penal institutions signed their full pardons. All four were placed 
under surveillance, but Sish made straight for the Neutral Zone and 
presumably from there into Romulan territory." 
"It does keep coming back to the Romulans doesn't it?" observed La 
Forge.   
"That is correct, Geordi." Data picked up, cocking his head slightly 
to one side as he tended to do when processing a theory. "In fact, 
our current heading if continued would eventually take us to a sector 
of space close to the opposite end of Romulan territory, 
approximately fifteen days travel at warp speed nine."
"Which sector, Data?" Crusher asked suddenly, frowning deeply.
"The Tagor system, Doctor. The system is right at the edge of 
chartered space and is in fact well past the Neutral Zone." the 
android replied.
Crusher turned to Riker excitedly.
"Calgos is an M class planet in that area. It was the last reported 
location of Tal Caoussin two months ago." she explained.
"Data, The Silken Thread, as we know it, was traveling at warp six 
before it decloaked. How long do you estimate it would take for the 
Enterprise to reach Calgos at Warp six." Riker asked thoughtfully.
"Four weeks, Captain".
"I want to be there in three. Geordi, your prime responsibility is to 
ensure we can maintain high warp speed over that duration. I'm 
assuming that The Silken Thread will be traveling fast and I want to 
be there before them if at all possible."
La Forge nodded.
"Yes, sir."
"Lieutenant Worf, I want you to monitor all subspace communications, 
federation reports, anything that might give us a clue as to The 
Silken Thread's location, terrorist activity in the area. Commander 
Uroyas. I would like you to assist in that." Both Worf and Uroyas 
nodded their understanding.
"Commander Uroyas, do you have any further information."
"Not at present, Captain. In fact, right now I believe the people in 
this room have the most knowledge on this whole investigation. I will 
be keeping close contact with Intelligence using secure channels and 
will commence inquiries into advances in Romulan technology and 
recent activity in the Tagor system."
"Fine. Any other comments or suggestions?"
Riker regarded each of his officers in turn, keen to ensure all had 
the opportunity to speak but he quickly realized that they were keen 
to get back to their jobs. He relaxed his stern expression, allowing 
a smile to play on his lips. They were the best crew he could hope 
for he thought thankfully. 
"Good. Data, set our heading for Calgos, Warp seven. Dismissed and 
thank you everyone."
Riker was the first to stride out of the conference lounge, closing 
his ears to the buzz of conversation that immediately sprang up 
behind him before filtering out as the doors closed behind him.
Back behind his desk Riker leaned back closing his eyes. He pictured 
Talinka Caoussin as she had appeared as a young eager Starfleet cadet 
and attempted to equate her with the masked Araxsi leader who for a 
long hour had controlled his every action. In a way she continued to 
do so he thought, as the abduction of Picard ensured the Araxsi would 
be the primary focus for the Enterprise and its crew for the 
foreseeable future. Tapping his comms badge he requested Dr. Crusher 
to send him all the files she had on Talinka Caoussin. His jaw set 
and his eyes glittered with determination. If Caoussin was as 
involved as he believed she was then he was going to make damn sure 
he knew all there was to know about her.
    
Chapter 6

On board the Cruiser Olanter, Dentor studied a stream of data that 
crossed his console. To the others on the bridge he appeared calm, a 
little bored maybe by the now normal routine of moving through space 
at warp six.
In fact Dentor felt considerable disquiet. He ran the data stream 
again. He felt sure of his conclusions. They had decloaked  for a 
split second, a split nano second even, as they had flown out of the 
explosions fury. Had it been picked up he wondered. He cleared his 
screen, watching it go blank. He did not understand the cause of the 
error, only that it had happened. Maintaining his casual demeanor he 
cast his eyes around the room, studying the occupants of the various 
stations that scattered his bridge, rerunning in his mind the events 
of the moment they had escaped Earth's orbit. There had been 
significant activity. Stations collapsing, the crew shouting, all 
working hurriedly to sort out the huge number of problems created by 
flying through the explosion's shock waves. He sighed. Maybe he was 
worrying unnecessarily. However...
He turned to Marta at communications.
"I want regular reports of all federation communications we can pick 
up regarding our escape  from Earth and our subsequent destruction." 
he ordered. Marta nodded, not questioning his reasons.
Dentor relaxed a little but as Kalesh entered the bridge he 
immediately tensed up again. He did not like this cardassian he told 
himself for the umpteenth time. Forcing a mild and polite tone he 
greeted the alien.
"How are your interrogations going?" he inquired.
"The human is stubborn, but giving way. He will be ready by the time 
we reach our destination."
Only Kalesh and Dentor aboard the Olanter actually knew their final 
destination. 
"This female, Caoussin."  Kalesh started. Dentor sensed the real 
reason for Kalesh's unusual visit to the bridge was a complaint.. 
Caoussin had stabilized the cloaking station, Dentor remembered, but 
she had only been seconds rescuing it. He dismissed the thought.
"Tal is a highly efficient and competent assassin." Dentor began 
hoping  to head the cardassian off, unsuccessfully as the burly 
cardassian took a deep breath to continue.
"She is arrogant and interfering." Kalesh countered. "Is there no one 
else who could replace her?"
Dentor considered this request seriously. He wanted a smooth running 
team, and the addition of Caoussin was always going to be wrought 
with difficulties. But it was Caoussin's highly individual style and 
her reputation that had been his main reasons for recruiting her. 
"Tal is essential to us." He coldly informed Kalesh. "You must put up 
with her. Once we reach our final destination she will be heading off 
in a different direction. Until then, remember that her character is 
one of the reasons she is so successful and therefore so important to 
our mission."
Kalesh made a disgruntled sound to indicate his displeasure.
"I will talk with her though." Dentor promised him placatingly. "That 
will have to be enough."
"It will be something." Kalesh nodded and turned to leave.
"Picard." Dentor stated. Kalesh turned back, his eyebrows raised. 
Dentor had heard Caoussin's opinion that Kalesh was moving too fast 
and that there would be too little of the Starfleet captain to work 
with later.
"I feel it is time Picard joined us for a while. Give him a little 
taste of freedom again. It will have the benefit of unnerving him as 
little and give you a chance to review your progress." Dentor had 
phrased this carefully, hoping to appeal to the cardassian's own 
instincts.
Kalesh frowned, mulling this suggestion over. Fortunately he 
respected Dentor and seemed to decide the idea had merit.
"Very well."  He agreed. "Expect a guest for dinner."
Dentor smiled, keeping his expression fixed until Kalesh had left the 
bridge. Then he released his pent up breath.
He heard Marta swear she could smell the cardassian from several 
meters. Unable to disagree he decided to ignore her comment.

Picard groaned as someone shook his arm continually to force him 
awake. 
"Leave me alone." he mumbled into his shoulder, keeping his eyes 
tightly shut to block out the light. He kept his body curled up on 
the hard mattress that masqueraded as his bed, trying to retain some 
warmth. 
"Get up, swine." Kalesh whispered, bending close to the captain's 
ear. He prodded Picard's side with a sharp rod, sending a jolt of 
electric charge through his half asleep victim. Picard let out a low 
moan but he was so tired, his mind would not function sufficiently to 
make his body move. Since his arrival on board he had barely slept. 
Every time he fell into a troubled sleep, Kalesh or his sidekick, 
Wroxter, would force him awake, forcing him to pace his small cell, 
or dragging him to another room, where they would question him for 
hour after hour. If he got the answers wrong he was beaten or prodded 
with the electric stick. 
He felt himself being dragged by the arm, off the bed and across the 
room. There his tormentor let him drop to the floor. A second later, 
Picard gasped as ice cold water hit him, soaking his thin clothing to 
the skin. The unexpected shock woke him up, and raising his head to 
let the water trickle into his mouth, he gulped down as much water as 
he could catch.  
Kalesh immediately grabbed him, pulling him up to slap Picard's face 
gently until Picard was alert enough to focus his eyes on his captor. 
"That's better." Kalesh grunted.
"What now?" Picard asked sullenly. "More torture to amuse your 
twisted mind, I suppose." Picard barely noticed the backhander Kalesh 
threw him for his insubordination, he was so used to it. 
"Get changed." The cardassian ordered, throwing some clothes at 
him. "You are joining the crew for dinner."
Picard paused in the act of picking up the fallen clothes from the 
floor.
"Dinner?" He asked suspiciously. His eyes narrowed, sure this was 
another of Kalesh's tricks.
"A little reward for good behavior." Kalesh added, watching Picard as 
he removed his wet clothes and dressed. Picard had been granted no 
privacy since his arrival onboard the Olanter and did not expect any 
now.  His elbow gripped tightly by Kalesh with his arm twisted 
cruelly Picard was forced to walk slightly sideways as Kalesh led him 
through the ship. Beyond resistance, Picard offered no struggle, 
sinking with relief into an empty chair at the well attended table 
when they reached what was clearly the ship's mess.
Kalesh released his arm and left him to speak to Wroxter who eyed 
Picard with unfriendly eyes from the far side of the room. Rubbing 
his elbow Picard looked around at the others already seated. Most 
stared back at him, their faces cold and wary. The woman he 
recognized as Caoussin was there, two places to his right. She did 
not look at him, deep in conversation with a man he recognized as 
their leader, Dentor, from the bridge. Dentor turned to look at him,  
followed a second later by Caoussin's own stern gaze. An awkward 
silence fell. No one knew the courage it took Picard to face those 
stares from his captors. Nor his relief when they just as suddenly 
lost interest in him, returning to their previous conversations. Food 
began to arrive on the table, the smells quickly setting Picard's 
saliva glands going. He felt a huge gaping hole in this stomach, but 
steeled himself not to be allowed anything. He was very surprised 
when a bowl of steaming soup was placed in front of him. It smelt 
delicious. Picard looked at the plates of those next to him. They 
contained some sort of stew and he realized that the chunks of meat 
and vegetables had been removed from his bowl. Probably wisely he 
guessed, as his stomach would not be able to handle anything more 
substantial. 
He picked up the spoon beside his plate, noting his hand shook 
slightly. Fighting to control the tremors he carefully filled the 
spoon with soup before gingerly touching it to his lips. It tasted 
good and as quickly as he could he drank the soup down, before anyone 
decided to take it away. A glass of water was set in front of him and 
glancing up he saw the `Araxi' woman had poured it for him. Quickly 
he sipped it, before taking a longer drink. Feeling a little 
stronger, Picard listened in to the conversation around him as he 
continued to eat and drink more slowly. A woman called Marta, was 
explaining to Dentor the gist of the communications she had been 
analyzing. Trying not to let his interest show, he listened 
carefully, shifting his glance around the table. He caught Caoussin's 
eye, making her start a little. She held his gaze for a second. 
Suddenly a hand fell on his shoulder, pressing him firmly to keep him 
in his place. Kalesh, Picard realized, recognizing the cardassian's 
characteristic odor. Instinctively he stiffened, attempting to 
retreat from Kalesh's firm grasp. 
"Time to introduce yourself." Kalesh boomed, gaining the attention of 
everyone present. Kalesh began to pound Picard with the same probing 
questions he had been interrogating Picard with for days, easily 
dragging well rehearsed answers from him. Days of Kalesh's intense 
programming techniques ensured Picard provided an increasingly 
uncomfortable Olanter crew with memories and details from his life. 
As he described his assimilation by the Borg Picard felt a deep 
humiliation creep through him, a self loathing that he could allow 
Kalesh to impose his will on him so easily. 

Dentor saw Caoussin wince as they all watched this once proud, strong 
Starfleet officer surrender to the inexorable demands Kalesh made of 
him. Dentor, himself could almost feel the pain Picard must have felt 
and was certain that none of those listening would have survived as 
well, if at all. `God.' thought Dentor, `the man looks completely 
done in.' He noted the dark rims under Picard's eyes, the waxen 
pallor of his skin, the lost weight. He had not missed the careful 
way Picard held himself, clearly to avoid aggravating some injuries. 
Kalesh certainly knew his job Dentor had to acknowledge, his 
insightful questioning was masterful, knowing how to draw from Picard 
the most intimate memories that would normally remain hidden in the 
deepest recesses of a man's being. Dentor sensed even his mercenary 
crew grow restless with shame that they were participants in a cruel 
form of voyeurism. Next to him Marta shifted uncomfortably in her 
seat.
"That will be all, Kalesh." Dentor interrupted, stopping the public 
interrogation dead. He held up a hand to still Kalesh's protest. 
Surprising them all their stricken victim stood up, his chair 
toppling behind him. Before Kalesh could react Picard had blindly 
pushed past his inquisitor, stumbling through the mess door which 
barely parted in time to allow his escape.
"Stop him." Kalesh roared, furious at his subject's unexpected 
display of defiance. He raced after Picard down the ship's main 
corridor. Dentor and Caoussin leapt up and gave chase. Caoussin 
closest to the door began to gain on Kalesh who had cornered Picard 
in a storage compartment. Dentor stopped behind Caoussin as Picard 
sank before them all to the floor, his legs unable to support him 
after his sudden burst of activity. Kalesh's face was grotesquely 
contorted with rage and he pulled out a vicious looking and familiar 
instrument he had strapped to his thigh. In one fluid movement Kalesh 
had thumbed the neuronic whip and brought it down fleetingly, but 
hard across Picard's right shoulder. Dentor shuddered at Picard's 
agonized scream, the captain's body writhing on the floor. As Kalesh 
raised his arm to strike another blow Caoussin leapt forward. Dentor 
was too late to stop her interfering and was relieved to see her 
escape a blow from the whip herself as by some amazing feat of 
dexterity she inserted herself between Kalesh and his victim, 
catching Kalesh's descending fist in an iron tight grip. With her 
free hand Caoussin had pulled out her own weapon and at point blank 
range pressed it firmly into the cardassian's chest. Behind Dentor 
various members of an excited crew crowded behind him, some vocally 
encouraging Caoussin to finish the job.
"I warned you, Kalesh." Caoussin spat at her adversary in a cold 
disgust. She took no notice of Picard who was taking the opportunity 
to scrabble back against the far wall, as far away from Kalesh as 
possible. "You go too far."
"You can't kill me." Kalesh snarled at her, refusing to lower his 
arm. 
Caoussin smiled viciously.
 "No." She agreed unhappily. "But I can and will do this."
Before anyone could react she pointed her phaser up and blasted the 
whip clear our of the cardassian's hand. Kalesh leapt back, his hand 
burning from the effect of the whip disintegrating into thin air from 
within his grasp. 
"You can't... no," Caoussin corrected. "daren't kill me. But go too 
far again and I will swear I will kill you, mission or no mission." 
Glancing at Dentor to remind Kalesh that their leader was there, she 
stepped back, calmly reholstering her weapon. Not even glancing at 
Picard, she turned her back on Kalesh and pushed past Dentor and the 
now silent crew. Dentor let her past. His lack of challenge to 
Caoussin's actions spoke volumes to the crew and Dentor knew it would 
not have gone unnoticed by Kalesh either. Dentor felt sure that the 
general consensus was that Kalesh had gone too far. There were no 
innocents in Dentor's collection of misfits and mercenaries, but 
there was only one Kalesh. The cardassian was holding his injured 
hand, his eyes mean and angry. Dentor waved Wroxter in to take Picard 
out of harm's way. Kalesh maintained a simmering silence as the rest 
of the crew sensibly melted away. 
Later, following a long and heated argument, Kalesh retreated to the 
sick bay for treatment and Dentor turned his attention to Caoussin. 
He tapped on her door. It opened to let him in. 
Dentor marveled at his long time friend and colleague's poise. 
Caoussin sat at her desk, studying data on her console, comparing 
information with an ancient paper map she had laid out beside her on 
the floor. She was engrossed in plans for the next stage of their 
mission he realized, noticing a loose lock of hair that fell between 
her eyes. She brushed it aside as she looked up, an apologetic smile 
creasing her lips.
"Come in."
"You really know how to live dangerously." He remarked as he dropped 
onto her bed.
"He asked for it." Caoussin retorted, putting her data pad down and 
giving him her full undivided attention. 
"Okay." Dentor conceded that point. "But Kalesh has his job to do as 
well, you know."
"Kalesh gets a kick out of his job. He does it for his personal 
pleasure and that makes him unprofessional. If this operation is to 
have any chance of success we must stay cool."
Dentor did not feel strongly enough to argue the point, both of them 
had been appalled at the vicious treatment Kalesh was prepared to 
mete out to a defenseless man. He swiftly changed the subject. 
"Talking about jobs how are your plans going." His gaze swept the 
plans arrayed around them. "Getting through the defenses on Tagor 
will not be easy. We must get the relic." 
Caoussin accepted the change in direction and showing him her 
datapad, deftly scoped out the concept behind her idea. Dentor was 
both impressed and horrified.
"You know the loophole here exists only because the native life forms 
are so savage it is unheard of for anyone to escape alive from that 
forest."
"I have some ideas on that." Caoussin informed him. I'll need some 
equipment though." 
Dentor stood up, pausing in the door as he left the room.
"Take whatever you need." He offered before leaving. Caoussin nodded 
absently, her brain already working on the details. 

Tal Caoussin stood on the bridge of the Olanter, her eyes feasting on 
the jewel that hung before them. Tagor was the typical M4 class 
planet, rich, lush continents broken up by a myriad of blue emerald 
seas.
"It's beautiful." she whispered.
"You would never believe that the most vicious creatures you would 
hate to meet in your worst nightmare thrive down there". Marta 
commented dramatically. "Have you read the data on them?" she 
continued looking around the rest of the crew currently on duty.
"Ugh." 
To emphasize her point she shivered involuntarily. Caoussin smiled at 
her.
"You'll like the surprise I have planned for them then!" Reaching 
down, she plucked up a small compact unit that she had earlier placed 
on the desk beside her.
This little contraption, strapped to your body armor, throws out an 
invisible force field. It sends out the same vibrations that the 
Milki, to give them their proper name, would pick up from 
subterraneous disturbances. All the data suggests that the Milki 
sense earthquakes and vacate the affected area rapidly."
"All theory." Kalesh dismissed. He had just joined them. 
From his command console Dentor turned to Caoussin. 
"I agree. You are going to test this before we offer ourselves up for 
dinner, I hope?"
"Of course, I propose to land a probe containing one of these devices 
from my ship, The Scriptor, while you monitor what happens from the 
safety of the Olanter. We  will have to move around to the dark side, 
as my own vessel is not cloaked."
"Won't the sensors pick you up?" Marta queried.
"No. I have a system aboard The Scriptor to fix that," Caoussin 
answered.
"What system?" demanded Kalesh disbelieving. Dentor raised an eyebrow 
to indicate he wanted to know that too.
"I'm paid for my skills." Caoussin countered. "Not to give away my 
secret tools of the trade. Do you want me to test this or not?"
She tossed the device in the air, catching it deftly on its way down. 
Dentor shrugged. Kalesh snorted and took a seat, folding his arms in 
front of him, making clear his suspicions. Making a decision Dentor 
suddenly came to life. 
"Right. Let's get this show on the road. Trouder, half speed around 
to the dark side, please."
Trouder a hard faced professional thief, famed for his reputation of 
piloting spaceships through the most daunting of space raids, barely 
touched the controls to fulfil the order. The Olanter on course, 
Trouder turned to Caoussin.
"Where did you get The Scriptor, Caoussin?"  
"I stole her, obviously. Right out from under the Federation's turned 
up nose. Then I rigged her so she would answer only to me. One false 
finger on the controls, one false word, or missed password. Boom! So 
be warned ladies and gentlemen. No one touches The Scriptor except 
yours truly."
Trouder laughed sourly. Caoussin hadn't got this far without taking a 
few precautions. Trouder turned back to his console, shaking his 
head. 
"Don't look at me, Caoussin." 
Caoussin didn't. Instead she looked at Kalesh who sat brooding.
"In position now." Trouder announced shortly afterwards.
"Tal." Dentor nodded to Caoussin.
"On my way." Caoussin replied, striding from the bridge. She made her 
way rapidly to a large hold, crammed full of tiny space ships, mostly 
one man vessels belonging to various members of the Olanter crew. The 
Scriptor sat proudly in the center, gleaming black curves. She 
outclassed the rest easily. As Caoussin approached her ship she knew 
The Scriptor was silently scanning her. When she reached the door she 
placed her hand on the panel, a green light whisked down it. Mentally 
checking the date, she worked out her password. "Two dogs fighting." 
The door silently opened. Satisfied the person entering was indeed 
Tal Caoussin, the controls were up and running, ready for her to just 
sit down and start her moving. The engines purred to life. Caoussin 
sometimes thought she would never retire from her mercenary career, 
simply because she loved her ship so much. She opened communications, 
hailing Dentor on the Olanter's bridge.
"I'm ready to go." she announced.

Dentor turned to Kalesh.
"Open bulkhead door." 
Kalesh nodded, entering the required commands to his station.
"She's out." he reported.
"Marta, hail her. Use the coded frequency." Dentor ordered.
The Scriptor responded straight away. Happy she was in contact, 
Dentor sat back and relaxed.
Kalesh began stabbing at his controls, then turned speaking urgently.
"I can't find her. She's disappeared. I don't trust her. She could be 
up to anything."
"For pities sake, Kalesh." Dentor turned on him exasperated. "She's 
not supposed to be seen." He understood what Kalesh meant though. The 
Scriptor was a fine ship.
So if she can't be seen, why did we have to move to the dark side?" 
persisted Kalesh.
"Because." Trouder answered slowly as if to a child. "Someone might 
be walking their pet armoudu and spot a great black shape flying 
overhead."
Kalesh fell silent, sulkily hovering over his controls, trying to 
find some trace of The Scriptor.
Dentor sighed. This was some trip, he thought.
Fifteen minutes later Kalesh spoke up again. 
"I'm picking up some seismic disturbance on the surface."
"Where?" Dentor asked leaping up and coming round to Kalesh's station.
He followed Kalesh's pointing finger, checking the coordinates.
"Right where the probe was suppose to land." Kalesh confirmed.
"What's the livestock doing?" Marta asked.
Kalesh checked the readouts before looking up. 
"Everything is moving to the East, away from the probe's position, 
including the Milki."
They all smiled. Even Kalesh looked pleasantly surprised Dentor 
noted. The cardassian did respect success after all. A little more 
enthusiastic now he had evidence that Caoussin's device actually 
worked, Kalesh checked the controls again.
"Interesting." He commented. The intensity of the vibrations is 
increasing." Suddenly he swore. "That was real, an earthquake, 5 on 
the Richter scale. The animals down there are really moving now."
"What went wrong?" Dentor asked annoyed. "Marta, hail Caoussin. Find 
out what's happened."
Marta had a short conversation with The Scriptor.
"Not a problem according to Tal. Says she'll explain when she gets 
back which will be in about ten minutes."
Indeed, ten minutes later, Caoussin entered the bridge, moving 
straight to the computer, where she reanalyzed the readings, checking 
them back against what she had taken from The Scriptor. Finally she 
straightened, slightly flushed from her exertions, to face them.
"That," she announced grandly, "is how we break into the compound 
tomorrow night."
When she had finished explaining Dentor whistled in admiration.
"Not bad." Trouder commented, nodding his head, visualizing the 
sequence of planned events. Dentor stood up.
"Right, we'll have a proper briefing this evening. Then we can get in 
training ready for the operation. Kalesh, will Picard be ready. I 
want him with us all the way, get him used to working with us."
"Picard's coming? What on earth for?" demanded Caoussin angrily. "I 
haven't planned for him. He will get in the way. No." She continued, 
shaking her head. "It's too big a risk."
Dentor turned on her, his tone crisp and firm, showing the side of 
him that made him their leader.
"It's not up for debate, Tal. Picard is coming. Think of it as a 
dress rehearsal."
Recognizing she was not going to win this argument, Caoussin gave way 
gracefully, ignoring the vindictive look Kalesh threw her.
"Well, I'd better make up another Milki then." She said leaving for 
her room. Marta looked puzzled. Trouder supplied her with the answer.
"At a guess I'd say that is what she's named her little seismic 
disturbers."

Kalesh stopped outside the door to Picard's interrogation room. He 
entered a code on the panel beside the door and went in. Since the 
night Picard had joined them for dinner and Caoussin had stepped in, 
Kalesh had kept the captain well hidden from the rest of the crew. He 
had vented his anger on the human only briefly, before deciding to 
bring forward his schedule. Picard sat on a hardback chair, his 
wrists in restraints. His eyes were fixed on a series of images that 
flickered on and off a screen before him, too quickly to take in 
their meaning. Kalesh circled him, careful not to get between Picard 
and the images.
"Where were you on Stardate 41095?" He asked the captain pleasantly, 
taking a seat in the corner.
"I've told you." Picard answered slowly, his words slurred and 
dull. "Tell me again." The cardassian encouraged him. "I'm 
interested."
"I was on..on." Picard paused. He shook his head slightly, his memory 
seemed faulty. A vivid picture of a desert plain, crammed full of 
dead bodies, rose up in his mind's eye. He thought he could smell the 
rotten stench. It overpowered him. Pressing forward against his 
restraints Picard retched violently, his horror plain to this watcher.
"What are you doing to me?" He demanded when he could speak again. He 
resisted the urge to ask for water to wash away the taste of bile in 
his mouth, knowing Kalesh would simply take great pleasure in 
refusing it to him.
Kalesh ignored the question.
"Tonight you rest." He told Picard. "Eat and sleep. That is all I ask 
of you."
Standing before the rooms only other piece of equipment, a small 
console, he terminated the program. The room fell briefly into 
darkness before normal lighting resumed. Then stepping up to Picard, 
Kalesh slowly released his restraints. Free, Picard slowly stood up. 
Weakly he walked to the door, following the routine of the last few 
days. Kalesh followed, taking Picard's unresisting arm before opening 
the door. The corridor was empty, sometimes a passing crew member 
would eye Picard curiously, but little was ever said. No one on board 
really cared what happened to a Starfleet officer, except Caoussin, 
thought Kalesh savagely. He was certain Caoussin simply enjoyed 
needling him. Her hatred of the Federation was well known amongst the 
residents of the underworld. Now he took Picard to the galley. Dentor 
was there eating a solitary meal. He looked up as Picard and Kalesh 
entered. 
"Ready for tomorrow." He asked Picard, deliberately fishing. Kalesh 
knew that Dentor did not like not knowing what Kalesh's job was on 
board the Olanter. He had a broad idea but no details.
"I have not told him yet." Kalesh informed Dentor, annoyed.
"What about tomorrow?" Picard asked but with little interest. At that 
moment he was clearly more concerned with getting a drink of water. 
Kalesh watched him spy a dispenser, grab a paper cup and pour himself 
a drink. Kalesh was feeling generous and allowed Picard to have his 
drink.
"Hey, that's enough." Dentor warned Picard in alarm. "Don't over do 
it too quickly."
Kalesh looked at the food on offer that day. It was stew again, he 
was disappointed by the choice. Filling up two plates, he set one 
before Picard and sat down himself to eat.
"What about tomorrow?" Picard repeated mumbling the words between 
mouthfuls. Kalesh answered as Dentor shrugged, plainly acknowledging 
that it was not his place to interfere.
"We are going to the planet below, Tagor. We have a small mission to 
complete. We want you to join us,"
"Why?" Picard questioned frowning, looking directly at Kalesh.
Normally such behavior would have earned him a punishment but Kalesh 
was in a conciliatory mood and let it pass.
"Consider it a test. Behave well, and you will be rewarded. Behave 
badly ..." He let the threat hang in the air.
"You torture me some more." Picard finished for him before turning to 
Dentor. "Why? Why am I here? The prisoners you asked to be released 
were, weren't they? You could let me go or kill me anytime. So what's 
stopping you."
Amused Dentor replied he had no idea.
"Ask Kalesh." He informed the disgusted Starfleet captain.

Picard leaned back in his chair. He hated this feeling of being so 
out of control of his life, surrounded by people who resented him, 
feared what he represented. It was not the first time since the Araxi 
woman, called Caoussin, had shot him at the reception, that he felt 
really frightened. He had been scared before on many missions, for 
his crew and his ship. This time, like with the Borg and on 
Cardassia, he was frightened for himself. His inability to improve 
his situation worried him deeply. The longer it went on the harder he 
would find it to act when an opportunity did arise. This trip to 
Tagor could be an opportunity. All this and more went through his 
mind as he silently emptied his plate.
Kalesh escorted him back to his cell, this time not bothering to hold 
Picard as they walked the short distance. As soon as the door closed 
behind him Picard turned and checked to make sure it was really 
locked. It was. 
He stretched as much as he dared, his wounds still bothered him. He 
still slept face down to avoid aggravating his back.
Now sitting on his miserable excuse for a bed, he rested his head in 
his hands, rubbing tired eyes. Please, he thought, let me sleep 
tonight. His brain felt so woolly the last few weeks, he was no 
longer able even to think about an escape. Before he collapsed, he 
forced himself up to the sanitary cubicle. Finished he just made it 
back to the bed before unconsciousness claimed him. That night his 
prayer to sleep was answered.

TBC





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