4 hours ago
President Khushku shifted uncomfortably. “I believe that Miss Gebrezghi’s shuttle did arrive within the approved window, but I stand by the call to shoot it down — unfortunate though it may be, assuming that the incoming ambassador is telling the truth. Not only did the shuttle fail to identify itself as agreed, but it was also approaching a restricted zone. Our marksman was operating in the interest of our national security.”
The hologram of Saida Gebrezghi fixed her gaze on the president, her sharp features carved into a serious expression. “Respectfully, I understand your reasons for attacking us. I’m glad that we’re able to have this conversation now, though I regret that the Aquila crew has been dragged into it. With time, I hope that we will form a bond of trust with each other.”
The president considered Saida’s words, turning to address Mala next. “We’re very concerned about the proliferation of rianite weapons. That’s why we have restricted access to details concerning dilithium processing, even from corporations that work with sensitive materials. I’m sure that many other Riani nations would gladly work with the Cardassians if given the opportunity, but they have little to offer — unless, as you suggested, Jonas was feeding them information. The problem is that there’s no evidence of contact between Jonas and our adversaries.”
The president crossed the large open chamber and sat on one of the desks reserved for audience members, facing the Aquila’s team.
“It seems unlikely that we’ll ever truly know the full details of what happened that day, so I’ll ask you now: what would you do in my position? Assuming that we choose to maintain a relationship with the Federation, you will need a representative. Of our two options, one is under investigation for corruption and currently recovering from an assassination attempt. The other is new to our world, but the circumstances of her arrival raise suspicion about her true motives.
“Understand that this choice could determine the future for my planet and our place in the quadrant. Everybody involved has an agenda, but my gut tells me that you’re trying to make sense of this mess, just as I am. So, tell me: what should I do? Perhaps your advice can be the token of goodwill that you seek to share with me.”
The president watched the away team curiously, like she’d just asked for career advice from a peer. Only the rigidity of her stance indicated how intently she was listening.
The hologram of Saida Gebrezghi fixed her gaze on the president, her sharp features carved into a serious expression. “Respectfully, I understand your reasons for attacking us. I’m glad that we’re able to have this conversation now, though I regret that the Aquila crew has been dragged into it. With time, I hope that we will form a bond of trust with each other.”
The president considered Saida’s words, turning to address Mala next. “We’re very concerned about the proliferation of rianite weapons. That’s why we have restricted access to details concerning dilithium processing, even from corporations that work with sensitive materials. I’m sure that many other Riani nations would gladly work with the Cardassians if given the opportunity, but they have little to offer — unless, as you suggested, Jonas was feeding them information. The problem is that there’s no evidence of contact between Jonas and our adversaries.”
The president crossed the large open chamber and sat on one of the desks reserved for audience members, facing the Aquila’s team.
“It seems unlikely that we’ll ever truly know the full details of what happened that day, so I’ll ask you now: what would you do in my position? Assuming that we choose to maintain a relationship with the Federation, you will need a representative. Of our two options, one is under investigation for corruption and currently recovering from an assassination attempt. The other is new to our world, but the circumstances of her arrival raise suspicion about her true motives.
“Understand that this choice could determine the future for my planet and our place in the quadrant. Everybody involved has an agenda, but my gut tells me that you’re trying to make sense of this mess, just as I am. So, tell me: what should I do? Perhaps your advice can be the token of goodwill that you seek to share with me.”
The president watched the away team curiously, like she’d just asked for career advice from a peer. Only the rigidity of her stance indicated how intently she was listening.