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Once McCoy received word that the mission was a go, he notified 'Port' and the Surgeon General that he would be on TDY, for Walking Bear. TDY was Starfleet talk for a temporary duty assignment which would explain his absence. The fact that Walking Bear endorsed it would prevent anyone from either questioning why he was leaving or what the trip was all about. He used the 'Phoenix' code word in his duty computer notices, which would add credence to his need to leave the office for a few days. His paperwork would still be there when he returned, but at least he'd get a break from it.
Once he was sure all was ready, he left the office and headed to meet with a friend who would be a great help, especially if he agreed to go along. On his way, he tried to think of just how to ask the favor.
In record time, Leonard found himself standing at the door to Doctor Tavar's research lab. The Romulan was a remarkable person and the perfect candidate for the special mission which was about to begin.
At the briefing with Walking Bear, McCoy had convinced everyone that ensuring the captive's health would be simple, especially if he had the help of Tavar. McCoy would consult with the man and pick his brain regarding any information he had on prolonged stasis use. But ultimately, it would be much better if Tavar agreed to go along as part of the mission. It was asking a lot. After all, he left Romulus and defected to the Federation. If he returned to Romulan territory and was captured... McCoy dismissed the thought as the consequences were truly unimaginable.
As McCoy entered the research lab, Tavar stood and moved to greet his friend. "Leonard, it is good to see you. Are you tired of your paperwork, again?"
"I was tired of it the day I started the job!"
The two shared a laugh, then McCoy became serious. "Are you alone?"
Surprised by the question, Tavar nodded in the affirmative.
"Good, sit down. I'm pressed for time so I'm going to get right to the point."
Tavar resisted the urge to comment 'it's about time.' He sat and waited for the generally gregarious Terran to speak.
Pulling up a chair close to the Romulan surgeon, Doctor McCoy became serious. "I have a need for your talents, specifically the work you did on long term stasis use."
Curling his lip in disgust, Tavar commented, "Really? Again? Didn't I give you enough information before? It's not one of my favorite topics, especially given my past and 'suspect' medical history."
"That's precisely why I need you," McCoy stopped to catch his breath. He knew he was bringing up a sore subject, but he continued in a rapid fire manner. "I have a dear friend in need of your talents. He's been in stasis as a captive, prisoner or whatever you want to call it, for an extended period of time. Your previous information was a start, but I need more... much more."
Tavar's right eyebrow jumped up in a manner similar to Spock's. McCoy ignored it and pressed ahead. "He's some distance from here and I can't make you go but, I would deeply appreciate your help."
Smiling, Tavar agreed. "Why of course. Anything to --"
McCoy cut him off. "Wait, there is a danger associated with this... case; doubly for you. While all of us will be at risk, due to what we will be doing and where we are going, your risk will be even greater."
A look of realization fell over Tavar's face. "You're going into Romulan space."
"This is strictly off the record and confidential. We're going to Romulus itself." McCoy may be breaching security, but he had to be honest with the man. After all, his life was on the line. If he was going to volunteer, it had to be a decision made with all the pertinent facts. Besides, Tavar had been cleared by security years ago and Starfleet wouldn't have him working in the Headquarters Building doing research if he wasn't trustworthy.
It was the first time McCoy had seen Tavar edgy. "Leonard, I can't go back there and help you... invade my home world. While I don't approve of my people's methods --"
Interrupting again, McCoy explained, "This is not a military action, it's a simple rescue operation. About eight of our people are being held in stasis. We're going in, one ship, rescue the captives and leave, period. We are under specific orders not to engage in combat or cause any Romulan casualties. All of our weapons are the stun types that Romulan slaves and servants carry."
"But how will you be able to get there... undetected?"
"A cloaking unit, courtesy of the Klingons. The mission was approved by both the Federation Council and the Diplomatic Corps. If you don't want to go, I understand completely, but I'd like to have all the data and material you have on extended stasis use."
The Romulan surgeon sat quietly for a few moments. "The data is yours, of course, but... isn't it better to have the source?"
"Are you sure?"
Tavar looked squarely at McCoy. "I left the Romulan Empire because of what they represented: The taking of captives, torture, extreme methods used by Tal Shiar, the brutality and treatment of our own people, which defied explanation or reason.
"In the Federation, I found tolerance, kindness, understanding and a willingness to help; even me, an enemy. Yes, at first I was watched closely by your people, but never limited to my travels here on Earth or elsewhere. Since then, no one questions my presence or reliability.
"Earth had a 'checkered past' but you grew and matured. Romulus has been much the same for the collective memory of my people. There is no sign of change and now there are rumors of a civil war which will probably make things even worse.
"Yes, Leonard, I will help you, but with one condition that you must agree to."
Confused but more than willing to accept the condition, McCoy asked. "Yes, anything! What is it?"
"If your ship should fall into Romulan hands, you must promise that I will not be taken by Romulan authorities."
"Well, I don't think there's too much to worry about in that regard. After all I wouldn't be going along if I thought -- "
"Promise me, Leonard!"
The room became quiet and McCoy finally acquiesced. "Very well, if that's what you want."
Smiling, Tavar became enthusiastic, "Good! When do we leave?"
"Yesterday!" McCoy smiled back, "It's an old Earth joke, but really, right away. Just as soon as you can get ready; I'm on my way to pack right now."
"What about my work?"
"Not to worry. Tell your supervisor you're on a special assignment for Walking Bear and use the code name, 'Phoenix.' If anyone has any questions, that should provide the answers, okay?"
Nodding slowly, Tavar stood, "Guess I better get started, too." Then a thought struck him, "Where do I... report?"
Embarrassed, McCoy replied. "Oh, yes... the new Enterprise, the 1701-B... just meet me in the transporter centroplex in an hour. I'll get you aboard, okay?"
"See you there!"
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© 2024 Brad McDonald / U.S.S. Kitty Hawk
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