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The brand new ensigns were like busy bees in a hive. Engineering was filled with the eager young Academy graduates. Montgomery Scott marveled at their abilities and eagerness to do anything to help. In order to keep them all occupied, he had them performing odd jobs all over the ship. Mostly, they were testing the various subsystems and minor items. While it might be considered 'busy work' by senior staff members, the 'kids,' as Scotty referred to them, were happy to be part of the mission in any way possible.
Almost from the start, telling the young engineers that there wasn't much to do just didn't work. Also, he had bruised a few egos unintentionally until he came up with his current plan.
He posted a list of all ship's systems not already tested, regardless of size or importance. Then he had a checklist for reviewing all those systems. Whenever someone needed something to do, they would pick an item from the list, check it out and post the date and time of the test and sign off on it.
With this plan, Scotty did not get interrupted every five minutes, which allowed him to get more important work done.
As part of the program, he had the new Academy graduates work with the civilian contractors on a rotating basis. Scott thought it was a good idea for the new officers to get as much experience in all aspects of work, including those tasks with non-Starfleet personnel.
The only complaints came from the ensigns who had to work with the original trouble maker, Clayton. It actually didn't come as a major surprise, so Scott stopped scheduling work parties with him.
Things were going well. So much so that he was actually relaxed. Considering the nature of the mission, where they were and the circumstances, it was quite extraordinary. However, the ship could leave Romulan space any time and he wouldn't mind it a bit.
Only one thing bothered him, Kef. His attitude had changed, dramatically. He was sullen and seemed preoccupied with something other than his work. Whenever Scotty tried to approach him, he acted as if the Starfleet engineer was, if not the enemy, no longer a friend.
Ultimately, Scott sought out Koord and asked for help. Although Kef wasn't a problem as such, the Scotsman didn't want the young inventor's problems to affect his work or the mission. Koord agreed strongly and was grateful for the input.
At that point, Scotty put the thought out of his mind. After all, he had so much else to think and worry about.
But the problem with Kef would resurface in a very disturbing way.
When Kef entered the room, Koord pulled the young officer to one side and indicated a chair. Reluctantly, but out of duty and respect, Kef complied. Koord could tell the inventor, engineer, scientist and warrior was conflicted. That conflict was being channeled into anger and the old general feared where that might lead.
"You want to battle the Romulans," Koord stated simply. "It is understandable and your willingness to fight and die, if necessary, is admirable and shows you are a true Klingon. But... this situation does not require a battle, not by Starfleet, me or you. Still, we will have glory and honor by virtue of just being here, serving with the Feds."
Kef looked lost and confused. "I do not understand, General. How can one not fight and yet gain glory and honor." He looked up at the general and indicated the old Klingon's sash, decorated with many awards and medals. "I see you didn't spend much time sitting and watching others fight for you."
Sighing heavily, Koord sat next to Kef and tried to explain. "It is true that I was in many battles, defeated many enemies and for that I received medals. But I have also been recognized in other ways; helping others and causing victories without fighting."
"I do not understand."
"When Gorkon was killed, I was there. I was injured before I knew there was a battle to be fought. Later, when Azetbur was speaking to the peace council on Khitomer, I was present. The Klingon, Federation and Romulan conspirators were defeated without my drawing a blade. I was considered part of the great peace accord and I achieved honor for the Empire." He paused and studied the young Klingon's face.
"Sometimes it happens that way. This mission with Starfleet is the first of its kind. We can make it successful, just by being here and helping them with their honorable quest. Me, because of my knowledge of the Romulan home world and the palace. You, because of your invention and skills to make it work in a Federation ship. The mission could not succeed without us. The Federation asked us, Klingon warriors, for assistance. Had they asked us to share blood we would, but that is not to happen this time. We defeat an enemy and help an ally by action, but not actual battle. It's a different type of war and honorable in its own way. It proves we can be an ally to the Federation and it also pays a debt of gratitude. All of these are honorable endeavors, Lieutenant."
Kef's ensuing silence confused Koord, "Do you understand?"
"I am not sure, General. Somehow it doesn't 'feel' like I'm being a true warrior."
Koord pulled his ceremonial knife and placed it handle first to Kef. "If you must draw blood then, take mine, not Starfleet's."
Shocked by the offer, Kef stood in protest. "I will not draw either Klingon or Starfleet blood. They are not the enemy; Romulans are. I wish to fight them!"
Replacing his knife, he rose to face Kef. "Someday, young warrior, but not today. Remember, patience and vigilance are a true warriors best allies."
Angry, Kef walked away quickly, leaving a disappointed Koord behind. Had the young man listened, understood and accepted what he said? He hoped so!
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© 2024 Brad McDonald / U.S.S. Kitty Hawk
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