Moments later.. "This is Col. Stark. What can I do for you Commander?" said
a old-ish looking man wearing the uniform of a Starfleet Marine.
"Sir, I am calling to ask if there is anything that we could do to assist
the Marines in finding Captain Boulay, who is listed as MIA. Starfleet
Command has expressed its deepest concern about his safety and hopes that he
will be recovered quickly and safely."
"Commander, I must admit that I am not sure what Starfleet Command can do.
We are doing everything we can do, from contacting the central government to
sensor sweeps and additional search patrols. We are even rounding up
suspected resistance sympathizers in hopes of getting lead on finding him,
and to pass the word that we are willing to negotiate a prisoner exchange.
I am not sure what you folks could do to help."
Audra was sure that she did not like what she was hearing when she heard the
term "rounding up suspected resistance sympathizers." "We were thinking
that some Security or JAG officers could help with such an investigation."
It was clear from her statement that she was not sure that jug heads were
the best group for invetigation. It just wasn't part of their training.
Her subtle hint was not lost on the Marine. His response was, shall we say
less subtle than hers.
"Commander, as I told you in our first conversation this morning and just
a moment ago, we are taking full advantage of every resource we have to find
Captain Boulay. We are using both orthodox, as well as a few unorthodox
methods to find and recover an esteemed member of Starfleet Command. I am
coordinating with the local government, and reporting to district command
every 18 hours with regular updates, more frequently if there is a
development. When I said that I am using every resource that included the
starfleet security specialists and a representative from JAG that are
assigned to this district. So, Commander Firehawk, we may not be diploamts,
but we are professionals who know how to carry out the mission that was
given to us. One more thing, Commander, thank you for your concern for the
marines that are also missing with Captain Boulay. When I write their loved
ones, I will be sure to add Starfleet Command's warm wishes for the recovery
of Captain Boulay and the hell with the Marines. In the meantime, if you
want to send help, or someone else to get in my way of finding the missing
personnel, contact mny District Commander, Rear Admiral van der Loo.
Stark Out."
He closed the channel. His offense at Audra's remarks was evident.
{response}
