STAR TREK: TALES OF THE MARSHAL MARTZ Episode 12: "Size Matters"

7/28/2019 STAR TREK: TALES OF THE MARSHAL MARTZ Episode 12: "Size Matters"

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ST@R TREKTALES OF THE MARSHAL MARTZ

Episode 12:Size Matters

By John H. Harris


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Disclaimer and Rights Notice:All characters from Star Trek: The Next Generation are the property of

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whom the characters are based.

Star Trekis the property of Paramount Pictures Corporation, and is used only

to indicate that the events of this story take place in the same overall

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Size Matters, Episode 12 of theSTAR TREK: TALES OF THE MARSHAL MARTZ fanfiction project, cba2011 by J ohn H. Harrisunder the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 International license.

This work may be reproduced and distributed freely, so long as it is done so in full and this

rights/disclaimer notice is included. Published by the author in the United States of America.

Dedication:To my fellow denizens at the Star Trek Photo-Manipulation Archive.

It started as an argument, and developed into this.Who knows where it might go from here?


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Admiral, we have a problem, Capt. Jean-Luc Picard reported from the screen.What kind of problem, Captain? asked Admiral Thomas Mecum, the

commander of Starbase 128.The Intarans refuse to talk with us. It seems were not fat enough.Fat enough.

Yes, Sir. They demand we send someone of larger stature.Thats what they told the captain of theIndomitable. Hell, Jean-Luc, thats whywe sent you.

It seems we misunderstood what they meant. In fact, if I hadnt taken Mr. Mot,the ships barber, to our last meeting, they never would have told us that much.

Mecum sighed. He didnt want to go where Picard was leading.Surely we have someone in Starfleet who would fit their demands.We do, Mecum answered.Is he a Bolian? A Tellarite?Human.Picard was surprised. And how did he manage to pass the physical standards?

He didnt. He got them changed.I take it you dont approve.No, I dont! Mecum snapped. The man suffers from adipose hyper-

replenishment syndrome.Cyrano Jones disease? If thats the case, hes perfectly healthy other than his

weight.I know, Jean-Luc, but its the perception of the thing. We need to put ourbest

forward, and a fat officer, no matter why hes fat, just isnt it.With all due respect, Admiral, Picard countered, to the Intarans, he is.Mecum sighed again. I wish I didnt have to do this. If the Intar system wasnt

in such a strategic location, Id tell you to abandon the mission, but Hold there for awhile, just in case. Ill send him to rendezvous with you.

Of course, Admiral. Which ship should I be expecting?TheMarshal Martz, under the command of Captain John H. Harris.

Captains Log, Stardate: 55812.2

We have received orders to proceed to the Intar system,where we are to rendezvous with the Enterprise.

The fact that I and my ship are being sent to assist Picardand his crew makes me wonder whats up.

End entry.

Captain John H. Harris sat back in his chair and pulled off his eyeglasses.Time for a new prescription, he thought, rubbing his tired eyes. Hed been

allergic to the base chemicals used in nearly all commonly-used vision correctiontechniques, and had elected to wear old-fashioned eyeglasses instead of undergoingsurgical correction. They were anachronistic, true, but had added to his mystique overthe years.


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His eyes soothed temporarily, he re-donned the eyeglasses, sat forward, and calledup the next piece of administration on his desk terminal.

It was another good-natured nag from his chief medical officer, trying to get himto schedule more time in one of the ships gyms. Chase Woods had always been aproponent of holistic medicine, which included regular exercise, and was frequently

wanting Harris to try some new (or old) method of treating his Cyrano Jones disease,despite the fact that the captain had passed every one of his physicals despite the morbidobesity that was the primary symptom of the genetic disorder. True, he didnt have thestamina of someone who didnt suffer from it, but did have strength and dexterity withintwo percent of Terran norm, well within Starfleets guidelines. In fact, his lower bodystrength approached Vulcan norm. Still, Woods was one of the followers of the McCoyschool, which held nagging in high regard.

Maybe shell be satisfied with some extra time on the holodeck, he said tohimself as he tapped out a reply. The nags did irk him from time to time, but he andWoods were friends, having served together on theMajesticback during the war, so hetook them in stride.

He was about to call up the next item in the queue when the intercom came alivewith the voice of Commander Arleta Thivan.Bridge to Captain Harris.Go ahead, Number One.Sir, weve reached the Intar system. Captain Picard is standing by on channel

D.Thank you, Commander. Ill take it in here.Aye, Sir.He sat back again as one of the most famous faces in Starfleet appeared on the

screen. Captain Picard, he said, greeting the senior captain. Its an honor to finallymeet you.

Likewise, Captain Harris, Picard replied. Your reputation precedes you.Not all of it bad, I hope.A bit, but thats a conversation for another time.I hear Mr. Worf is serving with you again.Indeed. He speaks rather highly of you, and especially of your young Ensign

Mallory.If theres time, Im sure shed be happy to put on a recital.Perhaps. Picard took a breath and let it out in a small sigh. First, however,

theres the matter of negotiating with the Intarans. It seems they hold um those ofIm not sure exactly how to put this

Fat people? Harris offered, carefully masking the old wounds the term openedin his psyche.

Crudely put, but yes. The Intarans consider obesity a sign of success andauthority.

Huh A weightocracy. Who knew?Indeed. And that, Captain, is why you are here.Harris thought silently for a few seconds. Perhaps, he finally said, I should

beam over for a more thorough briefing.


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Picard was in the transporter room to meet him.Welcome on board theEnterprise, Captain Harris.Thank you, Captain, Harris replied, stepping down from the platform and taking

Picards offered hand. Its an honor to be aboard.If youll come this way, well head up to the observation lounge.

Lead on, Captain.Please, call me Jean-Luc.In that case, Im John. Absently, the big man pushed his eyeglasses back up his

nose.I know you suffer from Cyrano Jones Disease, Picard remarked as they walked

the short distance between the transporter room and the nearest turbolift, but I dontrecall eye problems being one of the symptoms.

Its not. Im allergic to Retinax. We call it the Harris Family curse, Harrisanswered with a grin. Most of the family chose to undergo LASIK surgery when theireyesight stabilized, but I got used to wearing these and decided to keep them.

I see. What about contact lenses?

Harris shook his head. I could never stand them.They stepped into the turbolift. Bridge, Picard commanded, setting the car intomotion.

I was sorry to hear about your losing Commander Data, Harris remarked after amoment of silence. I would have liked to have met him.

He certainly was a remarkable individual. I suspect he would have liked you.He, too, was an unusual person who found a home in Starfleet. He turned to regardHarris. No offense intended, of course.

None taken.The turbolift came to a smooth stop; the doors opening onto the bridge.Nice bridge, Harris remarked, looking around.Thank you. Of course, you know my first officerCertainly. Nice to see you again, Mr. Worf, though I wouldve thought youd

still be on QonoS.I found the life of a diplomat distasteful, the Klingon replied. I find my

duties in Starfleet much more rewarding.Cant say I blame you.And this, Picard injected, is Commander Geordi LaForge, chief engineer.Its very nice to meet you, Sir, the dark-skinned engineer said, shaking the

larger mans hand. Ive read a number of your papers on starship constructiontechniques. We used quite a few of them when we were laid over for repairs.

Im glad they came in handy. If theres time, Id love to discuss them with you.Id like that. I wouldnt mind a tour of that ship of yours, either.Ill see what we can do, Harris answered, but first, we have some negotiations

to finish.Quite, Picard said. Shall we?Please.The two captains crossed the bridge and entered the observation lounge, where

they found a simple tea set waiting for them on the table.


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Would you care for some Earl Grey? Picard asked, taking a seat at the head ofthe table.

Yes, thank you. Two lumps, please.Picard quickly had two cups poured and dropped two cubes of sugar into one of

them before placing it before the larger man. How much did your orders explain?

Not a whole lot. Admiral Mecum said, and I quote, Harris, get yourself to theIntar system and meet up with theEnterprise.That sounds typical of the admiral, Picard answered, dryly. Several months

ago, the Intarans sent word through the Pakleds that they were amenable to hosting aFederation Starbase.

So why are we here instead of a full ambassadorial team?Apparently, the planet has been the victim of a number of raids by the Tzenkethi.

Thus, the Federation thought a Starfleet vessel would be more appropriate.That explains why the Federation wants to take the Intarans up on their offer,

Harris remarked. With both the Tzenkethi and Breen making noise, Starfleet could usea major base in this area.

Exactly.So what happened when you tried to talk with the Intarans?At first, they reiterated what they told the captain of theIndomitable, that we

werent of great enough stature. Needless to say, that confused all of us, since theyrequested a Federation starship, and theEnterprise is the Federations flagship.

Which essentially makes you Starfleets senior captain. There is nobody ofhigher stature in the fleet.

Which was exactly Admiral Mecums thought. Then we thought they meantheight, so I asked Lieutenant Shetanna, the tallest member of the crew, to speak withthem. They seemed almost horrified at her. In retrospect, its not surprising, in light ofBelzarian physiology.

What my mother used to call beanpole thin.Indeed. It was Geordi who finally hit on the fact that the Intaran leadership were

on the large side.As are the Pakleds, Harris remarked, which explains why they sent the request

through them.Exactly. Anyway, after Lieutenant Shetanna tried to speak with them, Geordi

lamented the fact that the only Bolian aboard was a civilian, since the Intarans allreminded him of the paunch a Bolian tends to develop during puberty.

As their second and third stomachs mature, yes.While Mr. Mot is an excellent barber, his skills as a negotiator are a bit lacking.

Still, I was at my wits end by that point, so I asked him to accompany me on one lastattempt to begin negotiations. It was at that meeting that the Intarans finally informed usthat their culture considers those whom we would consider obese to be successful, andthat several of their ruling councilors were wondering if the Federation was really asprosperous as reputed, seeing as we were all so thin, even to the point of emaciation intheir eyes.

Thats certainly not a unique perspective, Jean-Luc. Most cultures have gonethrough that kind of phase. For example, I dont think Reubens would have been as well-


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received if his models looked more like our contemporary ideal human. Even today,certain Polynesian cultures hold larger people in high regard.

You make a good point, John, and its exactly why you were called in.Then I think its time to meet the Intarans.

Mr. Parker, Picard ordered, as he and Harris strode back onto the bridge, hailthe Intaran Council. Tell them weve been joined by a negotiator of great stature.Aye, Sir, replied the petite blonde at the tactical console. She spoke in low

tones as she quickly established the ordered contact. I have Vice Councilor Yan, Sir.On screen.The woman who appeared on the screen was attractive, in her own way. She had

a round, matronly face that reminded Harris of some of the old photographs of some ofhis Russian ancestors. A small, yet friendly, smile appeared on her lips as she gazed outat the two captains.

Captain Picard, she said, her voice befitting her face, how may I help you thisevening.

My apologies for calling so late in the evening, Vice Councilor. Youveundoubtedly noticed that a second Federation starship, theMarshal Martz, has arrivedand taken up position close to theEnterprise. Id like to introduce her commandingofficer, Captain John Harris.

Captain Harris, we had feared the Federation had no-one we could deal with.Welcome to Intar.

Thank you, Vice Councilor, Harris replied. On behalf of Starfleet and theFederation, I apologize for our cultural misunderstanding. Most Federation specieshave a different standard of beauty and success.

So we have discovered. Tell me, how did they find you?Im an anomaly amongst humans. Im sure we can discuss it at a later time.I look forward to it. However, as Captain Picard said, it is rather late.Of course. May we meet with the Council tomorrow morning?Certainly, the woman answered. Would three hours after first sun be

acceptable?Harris looked over at Picard. That would be 07:00, ship time, the elder captain

informed his younger colleague.That would be fine, Vice Councilor. If I may, Id like to bring Captain Picard

and a few others along. While all Starfleet captains are trained in diplomacy, he is one ofour most experienced negotiators.

Captain Picard is welcome, though we expect you to speak for your people.Of course, Harris replied. We will see you then.

The first words that Harris heard were, Somebody shoot that damn bugler!It took him a moment to realize that he was the one who had uttered them.A moment later, the ancient bugle call ofReveilleended, and was replaced by the

computers voice. It is now zero four thirty.Harris groaned. He usually didnt get up for another two hours, but he needed to

be fully awake for the morning meeting with the planets leaders.


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Throwing off the covers and sitting up, Harris reached over to the bedside tableand picked up his eyeglasses. As he slipped them on, his surroundings came into focus.

Wha? These arent myhe thought, but then remembered that hed elected tostay aboard theEnterprise for the night. Strange Bed Syndrome, the big man thought,standing up.

Reminder: Captain Picard has requested your presence in his quarters forbreakfast.Thank you, Computer, Harris answered, heading for the head. Advise him Ill

be there in forty-five minutes.Acknowledged.

Exactly forty-five minutes later, Harris arrived at Picards quarters, which openeda moment after he signaled for entry.

Good morning, John.Good morning, Jean-Luc.Please, have a seat, Picard said, offering the other captain a seat. I hope you

dont mind coffee and croissants. I tend to eat a light breakfast, and the Intarans ofteninclude meals as part of their meeting protocol.Not at all. I tend toward onion bagels, myself, though I will occasionally give in

to a protein craving and pig out on Harris stopped and slapped his commbadge.Harris toMartz.

Gee here.Ensign, have Commander Thivan eat light today, if at all. That goes for the rest

of the department heads. We may have guests for dinner, and I want to show them wecan pig out with the best of them.

Ill pass it along, Captain, but I already had banana pancakes this morning.Ill grant you an exception, Ensign. Harris out.I hope you have better luck with that, Picard said, offering Harris a plate of

croissants. I invited the Council of Leaders to dine here aboard theEnterprise, but theyrefused.

Spreading a bit of orange marmalade onto the open end of his croissant, theyounger captain replied, It could be that they expected that you wouldnt have enoughfood available.

Picard looked up from his own croissant. Thats absurd. Our replicators canproduce as much food as necessary.

But the Intarans dont know that. They see how thin you and your crew are,estimate the numbers from the size of the ship, take a guess at how long your missionsare, and conclude

That were rationing our consumables. I hadnt considered that.Thats because nobody has ever put you on a diet. He then bit into his croissant,

and chewed a few times. Dundee Marmalade?From my personal stock. Only the best for a visiting captain.

The first thing Harris noticed was the plethora of seating, all of it geared to largerpeople. There were also no stairs. Instead, escalators and ramps dominated.


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I may just retire here, Harris said, looking around. At the very least, thisplanet will become a Mecca for people with conditions like mine.

Im unfamiliar with this Mecca you speak of, came a voice from behind them,but Im happy to know that there are more like us in the Federation.

The four members of the away team turned to see Vice Councilor Yan, the

woman they had spoken to the previous evening. Now that he could see the rest of her,Harris initial impressions were confirmed. Even the clothing she wore reminded him ofthe embroidered folk dresses worn by Russian women in centuries past.

Vice Councilor Yan, the big captain said, stepping forward, its an honor tomeet you in person.

The honor is mine, Captain. Welcome to Intar.Thank you. Captain Picard, you know. This is Sergeant Major Corwin, from the

Marshal Martzs Federation Marine contingent, and Petty Officer Fieri from theEnterprise.

Welcome. Captain, would you care for a conveyance? The Council chambersare nearby, but still some distance.

That will not be necessary, Vice Councilor. I prefer to walk whenever possible.Very well. If youll come this way, please?As they began walking, Fieri leaned over and said to Corwin, She doesnt seem

to like us, but have you noticed were not the only thin people here?Yan apparently heard them, because she turned her head and answered, There

are a number of professions suited to those with very high metabolisms. Emergencyworkers, mostly. I believe you call them first responders.

So there, Corwin said back to Fieri. Thank you, Vice Councilor. We serve thecaptains in much the same way. Their safety is our responsibility.

I assure you, youre perfectly safe here.We mean no disrespect, Vice Councilor, Harris explained. Its standard

Starfleet procedure that command officers be escorted on away teams.Yan thought for a moment before nodding. A wise procedure.

It was a short walk to the Intaran Executive Councils hearing room. It was anirregular hexagon, with a short side immediately opposite the main doors, with long wallson either side. The other side of the room reversed the layout, giving the overall shape ofa gemstone placed on its side.

Thirteen large, deeply-cushioned chairs were arranged behind the long judicial-like bench that dominated the front of the room. The rest of the room was filled with alarge table and a public gallery, which was empty.

Twelve of the councils seats were occupied, and two chairs had been placed atthe witness table. All had been set with tableware, as if for a meal.

Prime Councilor Kodo, Yan said, stopping just short of the witness table, Ipresent Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the Federation StarshipEnterpriseand Captain JohnH. Harris of the Federation StarshipMarshal Martz.

The man at the center of the bench stood up. While he wasnt the largest of thethirteen, he was big, with a gut on him not unlike the one Harris himself carried. His hairreminded the younger captain of steel wool, and his complexion reminded him ofBenjamin Sisko, who had been one of his mentors during his field year at Utopia Planitia.


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And, like Harris, he wore eyeglasses, though his were simple metal frames, unlike thestyle the large Starfleet officer wore, which were made of a composite material and styledafter a brand of sunglasses popular in the late 20th and 21st centuries.

Captain Picard, Kodo said, his voice as big and deep as space itself, welcomeback. And all of Intar welcomes you, Captain Harris. We were beginning to wonder if

there was anyone in your Federation, especially your Starfleet, who actually looked thepart.I hope to let our words and actions give you the assurance that our appearance

has not.And we thank you for indulging our culture. Please, sit and partake with us

while we discuss the business at hand.Thank you, Prime Councilor.At Picards nod, Corwin and Fieri took seats in the front row of the empty gallery,

and the two captains took their own places at the witness table as Kodo resumed his seat.As a number of platters, laden with various types of food, were brought in, Kodo

began, As Im sure Captain Picard has informed you, this planet has suffered through a

number of raids by the Tzenkethi over the past several months. While we have been ableto turn them back, the cost to our military has been severe, both in personnel and materiel.Most of our spaceborne defenses have been destroyed or severely damaged, a number ofcities and smaller settlements have been attacked and the population is living in fear.

Yes, Sir, Harris answered, helping himself to what appeared to be a saladconsisting of mixed raw vegetables topped with cheese, sauted meat strips and a creamydressing. We have taken steps to address these raids. The Federation has filed a protestwith the Tzenkethi government; Starfleet has increased patrols in this area and we standready to provide any humanitarian aid you require.

What about military aid? another of the councilors asked.Harris had to swallow the bite he had just taken before answering. Once we

reach terms on the hosting for a starbase, we will certainly coordinate with your planetarydefense forces. However, your status as an independent system precludes any directmilitary aid.

Yet until quite recently, you shared a starbase with the Bajorans.If I may, Councilor, Picard interjected, I have a great deal of experience with

the Bajorans. Deep Space Nine was already an existing facility, built by the Cardassians,when the Bajorans asked Starfleet to administer it. Thus, we did not share the stationwith the Bajorans. Theyshared it withus.

Granted, Captain, Kodo added. I think I can safely say that, had we such afacility, we would be making a similar request for Starfleet administration.

And if we had accepted the Tzenkethi trade offer, we would not now besuffering their attacks, another of the councilors, a man of advanced age, snapped.

Councilor Langi, Kodo answered, that offer was extortion at best. He turnedback to face the captains. They wanted one-third of our yearly production, especiallyfood stocks, while offering insufficient goods to offset them. They also demandedexclusivity.

Not unusual for the Tzenkethi, Picard remarked, pitched more for hiscolleagues ears than those of the council.


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The Tzenkethi also warned, Langi said, that the Federation, should we allowyou in, would slowly conquer us, just as you have the Bajorans.

We did not conquer the Bajorans, Harris retorted. They chose to become amember of the Federation.

So you say, Captain.

One should not take the Tzenkethi at face value, Councilor. They have a habit ofmisrepresenting the Federation.And weshouldtake the Federation at face value?Not at all. Let our actions convince you if our words do not.I see that we have much to discuss, Prime Councilor Kodo said, cutting off the

debate. Perhaps we should adjourn for now and meet again.Harris leaned over and asked, Have you offered a tour of theEnterprise?It would have been a prelude to dinner, of course.Then lets try again. The two captains then stood, their subordinates joining

them a moment later. Councilors, perhaps seeing is believing. Id like to invite you totour both our vessels and dinner tonight aboardMarshal Martz. And you need not fear

depriving my crew. Our replicator technology can produce as much as you like.An interesting offer, Captain Harris, Kodo replied. I will let my colleaguesaccept for themselves, but I would enjoy such a tour. And I would like to apologize toyou, Captain Picard. I was unaware of your technology.

I take no offense, Prime Councilor. I hope only to show what we can offer.Then we will reconvene aboardMarshal Martzat your convenience.Thank you, Prime Councilor, Harris said, and my compliments to your chef.

The salad was delicious.

Outside, the away team began walking back toward the beamdown coordinates.I must say, Picard said, that went remarkably well. Youve accomplished

more in an hour than Ive been able to in over a week.The thing is, Harris answered, idly pushing his glasses back up his nose, I

shouldnt have. I certainly didnt say anything different.But the words came from someone they could relate to, Corwin injected.Thats a valid point, Sar-Major, Picard replied, but youre right. Something

seems a bit off. At the very least, we should advise Admiral Mecum of thebreakthrough.

Agreed, Harris said, nodding. Youre welcome to beam up with us.Thank you. I believe I will. Mr. Fieri, youll beam back to theEnterprise.

Advise Commander Worf to have the ship prepared for a Head-of-State inspection. Also,advise the department heads that theyll be having dinner aboardMarshal Martzthisevening, so they should eat very lightly today.

Aye, Sir.As Fieri stepped away to call theEnterprise, Harris tapped his commbadge.Harris toMartz. Three to beam up.Aye, Sir. Transporter locked and energizing.The quantum fuzz of the transporter effect surrounded them for less than three

seconds, depositing them on the platform of transporter room two.Welcome aboard, Jean-Luc, Harris continued, stepping down from the platform.


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Thank you, John.Harris then turned to Corwin. Ichi Ban, do you think you can scare up some

folks for a diplomatic dinner?Diversity showoff? the marine asked.Exactly.

Yeah, I can do that. She then leaned over and gave Harris a quick kiss. Illsee you later.Picard raised an eyebrow. Ive found that a romantic relationship with a

crewmember is more trouble than its worth.You may be right, but its worked for us. Just because Im the captain doesnt

mean I have to turn into a monk. He then silently invited Picard to precede him. Welluse my readyroom.

The two men left the transporter room and started toward the nearby turbolift.But theyd only taken a few steps when Harris noticed the sound of running feet comingfrom behind them.

Heads up, he said, pulling Picard out of the middle of the corridor. Morning,

kids! Mornin, Captain! replied three children, aged between six and ten, as theybounded past.

Harris grinned as he and Picard resumed their progress. Gotta love the kids.They make it a jungle sometimes, but they make it all worth it.

Personally, Ive never been very good with children.To each his own, I guess. Here we are.The two men stepped into the turbolift, which closed behind them.

Welcome back, Captain.Thank you, Number One, Harris answered. This is Captain Picard, from the

Enterprise. Jean-Luc, Commander Arleta Thivan, my first officer.Its an honor, Captain. I briefly served under one of your officers, Commander

Data, back during the Klingon civil war. Im very sorry to hear of his loss.Thank you, Commander.Harris then turned to the Marine seated at the portside tactical console. Sergeant,

open a channel to Admiral Mecum at Starbase 128, and put it on the big screen in myreadyroom.

Aye-aye, sir.Shall we?The two captains crossed the bridge and entered Harris readyroom, where the

larger captain took a seat behind the desk, as Picard sat on the edge of the storagecredenza behind him, so as to be seen by the video pickup.

I have Admiral Mecum for you, Sir. Coming on screen.A moment later, the screen changed to show the gruff image of the sector

commander. He had a long face and dour expression.Captain Harris, J ean-Luc. May I take it you have some progress to report?Yes, Admiral, Picard replied. As you surmised, the Intarans received John

quite well. In fact, hes been able to accomplish in a single meeting what I havent beenable to do in a week of intense negotiations.


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Dont tell me you hammered out a treaty already.No, sir, Harris quickly said, but the planets Executive Council has accepted

our dinner invitation. Right now, thats progress.Thats true.Weve also discovered a split in the Executive Council. It appears at least one of

them seemed receptive to the Tzenkethi trade delegation.Is that so? The admiral thought for a moment, the crows feet standing out ashe squinted a bit. We may be able to use that. There are a couple of Bolian shippingcompanies that are pretty eager to expand into this area. The Intarans shouldnt have aproblem with them. At least until we can open their horizons a bit. Stay on it, both ofyou. Captain Harris, youre lead negotiator for now, but I want it clear that Picard is incommand of the mission.

Understood, Sir.Let me know when you have more. Mecum out.A moment later, the screen changed to the standard END TRANSMISSION

image, as Picard moved to one of the two seats in front of the desk.

The admiral seemed a bit surprised at hearing how the Intarans have acceptedyou, he quipped.Pretty standard reception, really, the younger captain answered. Im not what

many of them would consider the ideal Starfleet officer.So he informed me. Personally, Ive encountered enough different people out

here to conclude that any prejudices I ever had are gone.Glad to hear it. Care for a quick tour?Picard nodded. I think Id like that.

That afternoon, nearly the entire Executive Council (many of them bringing theirspouses, aides and personal medics with them) beamed up to theMarshal Martz, wherethey were taken on an extensive tour of both ships, with each captain highlighting eachships strengths and unique capabilities.

Finally, they reached Leading Edge, theMarshal Martzs main lounge, which hadbeen reconfigured into a banquet hall/theater setup, the bar now a fully-stocked andequipped kitchen.

Prime Councilor, if you and your wife would join me and Captain Picard at thecaptains table, the rest of you, please sit wherever you like. Starfleet, on your feet!

You, too, Mr. Mot, Picard added.It took only a few seconds for the Intarans to find seats, as Harris stepped to the

center of the room.Ladies and Gentlemen, he began, the people standing among you represent

seventeen Federation species, as well as a number of Federation allies. As I introduceeach of your species, please be seated.

As both ships were built in the Sol System, most of our crews are Earth Human.About half of those standing took their seats. But we of Earth have a rare honor. Weshare our world with other sentient species, specifically the Cetaceans, whales anddolphins, who, though they are mammals like us, live in Earths seas.


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The first extraterrestrials we encountered visited us when we made our first warpflight. They were the Vulcans, a very ancient and wise race who have mastered theiremotions and follow a philosophy of logic and intellectual development.

As humanity began exploring the galaxy, we began encountering other species,such as the Andorians, Commander Thivans species. They are a race of fierce warriors

who learned peace as they moved out into the galaxy and met other species. After that,humanity encountered the Tellarites, who proved themselves to be excellent engineersand builders.

These four species: humans, Vulcans, Andorians and Tellarites, became thefounding members of the United Federation of Planets. But we did not remain the onlymembers. We established colony worlds, some of which changed the people who settledthere. One such colony is New Hokkaido, home of Sergeant Major Corwin, whoaccompanied us this morning. The humans from her world have mutated and host asymbiotic virus which augments their immune and regenerative processes.Unfortunately, it makes them resistant to replicated materials, so much of our standardmedical techniques are ineffective. Fortunately, the mutation does not affect digestion,

so she will be enjoying dinner with the rest of us.Of course, as we continued exploring the galaxy, we encountered other species,such as the Caitians, renowned as great communicators. The sharing of information andartistic expression is the cornerstone of their culture. Even today, Caitiancommunications officers are sought after by every captain in Starfleet. Im very lucky tohave two of the best aboard.

We encountered the Denobulans, the home of renowned doctors and medicalscientists.

In more recent times, we have encountered other kindred species, such as theCapellans, a race of proud warrior nomads; the Bolians, a somewhat gregarious, eager-to-please race

Now, Captain, the Bolian barber began, I wouldnt say we were gregariousI would, Mr. Mot. Have a seat, please.A round of chuckles swept through the compartment as the Bolian shrugged and

complied with the order.The Deltans, Harris continued, a sensual race from which come great scientists

and navigators; the Betazoids, a telepathic species who excel at many disciplines, not theleast of which is the medicine of the psyche; the Horta, a silicon-based race of naturalminers and mineralogists; the Trill, some of whom live as a joined species, carrying asymbiotic second brain that carries the memories of previous hosts; the Zakdorn,reputedly the greatest strategists in the galaxy; and the Bajorans, a deeply spiritual,contemplative race who have recently become a full member of the Federation.

We have also made allies and friends with species who chose not to join theFederation, though relations with some of them did not begin on friendly terms. Onesuch species are the Klingons, such as Commander Worf. Fierce warriors who holdhonor above all else, the Federation and the Klingon Empire were bitter enemies formany years, but, as foretold by a race called the Organians, we have become allies andfast friends.

Other allies we have made are the Melkot, a race of powerful telepaths who haveevolved beyond humanoid form; the Argelians, famed for their hospitality and art; and


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the Fabrini, an ancient people, unrivaled in science and medicine. With their rediscovery,the Fabrini Lexicons are the cornerstone of Federation Medicine.

And still others who are not with us: the Efrosians, the Halii, the Rigelians, theEminians, the Grazerites and even the Xindi, six species who share a common ancestor.There are even a handful of artificial life forms in the Federation.

Whenever a species learns how to travel faster than light itself, the galaxyrejoices, for it means that another member has joined the family of starfaring races.These species are just a sampling of what awaits out in the galaxy. You have had warpdrive for some time, but you have only traveled a very short distance from your home.We are here to say that you are alone no longer.

As Harris paused, Kodo rose to his feet and began applauding. Others quicklyjoined him, acknowledging the truth of the captains words. Harris stood silent until theapplause died and seats were resumed.

Thank you. Turning to tonights meal, we will be showing off two pieces of ourtechnology. The first, as demonstrated by the appetizers in front of you, is the replicator,a device which can produce almost any material nearly instantaneously on demand.

Many of us use replicators to obtain our food. Thus, cooking is today seen more as an artthan a daily chore. Indeed, in the last few centuries, a number of chefs, those who pursuethe profession of food preparation, have become celebrities in their own right, making theprocess of cooking a form of entertainment.

Using advanced computer intelligence, holographic and forcefield technology,one of the first such celebrity chefs joins us tonight. She was one of the most popular andrespected chefs of the early twenty-first century. Tonight, we dine on one of hercreations.

Ladies and gentlemen, I present Chef Anne Burrell.With the sound of energizing holoemitters, the famous chef appeared behind the

bar. As the captain took his own seat, he noticed that Corwin had chosen to portray thewoman near the beginning of her popularity, near her fortieth year. Catching themarines eye, he smiled and nodded, indicating his approval of her choice.

Thank you, Captain. It is indeed an honor to be here with you. Hopefully, youllenjoy watching how your meal is prepared without replicator technology as much as themeal itself. Lets begin with the appetizer before you

As the spiky-haired holographic chef began working, Kodo leaned over and spokein low tones to the younger captain.

The Pakleds told us the Federation had a diverse population, but I had no idea itwasthisdiverse. I look forward to learning more. As for your technology I hope wecan negotiate a technology exchange, if for no other reason than to bring your cuisine toIntar.

Im sure we can work something out, Prime Councilor. I suspect our recipes willbecome quite popular

The blare of the red alert klaxon halted his words.

Gravity does strange things to space. A strong gravity well, such as that of a star,actually warps the fabric of space-time around it, even into the realm of subspace.However, this effect is attenuated along the stars ecliptic, that plane along which asystems planets tend to orbit. To a ship at superluminal speed, the warping effect can be


16/47

felt out as far as the systems heliopause, where the stars own solar wind meets thecosmic wind of the galaxy as a whole.

To helmsmen and navigators, this is colloquially known as the doorstep.Usually, a ships navigation computer will make the minor adjustments required tominimize the transitional effects encountered at this point. However, the occasional mis-

entered course or other anomaly will cause a minor delay in a ships inertial dampeningsystem, though practically never with anything more than a slight shudder or lurch posingno threat of injury. This is known as tripping over the doorstep.

By extension, approaches along the plane of the ecliptic are known as coming inthrough the front door, while those from off the ecliptic are through the roof andthrough the basement, depending on its relation to the magnetic orientation of thesystem primary.

As the subspace warping becomes worse at greater angles from the ecliptic, it hasbecome standard procedure to regard any approach from more than fifteen degrees off asystems orbital plane to be a tactical maneuver, and thus a prelude to attack.

Harris stood up and tapped his commbadge. Harris to bridge! Sitrep!Weve got a ship entering the system through the roof, reported the dutyscience officer. We dont have a definite read on it yet, but the power consumptioncurve looks right for a Tzenkethi battlecruiser.

Whats his ETA? Picard asked.Three minutes, tops.Thats not enough time to get the council off, the veteran captain concluded.Whats happening? Kodo asked.Theres a Tzenkethi battlecruiser headed in-system from way off the ecliptic.

Thats generally considered a tactical move. Harris turned back to Picard. Theres notenough time to get the VIPs off, but I can get you and yours back to your ship.Transporter room two, lock onto all Enterprisepersonnel and beam them directly to theirbridge.

Aye, Sir, replied the light contralto of Chief Deney. Energizing.A moment later, Picard and the otherEnterpriseofficers were whisked away by

the blue-white shimmer of the transporter beam.Starfleet to battle stations; everyone else, stay here! Lets move!It took only seconds for the Starfleet personnel to disperse to their stations.

Harris, Thivan and the other bridge crew headed for the nearest turbolift. But when theyreached it, the captain was surprised to find that Kodo was with them, though laggingbehind somewhat.

Im coming with you, Captain! he growled between gasping breaths. This ismy planet.

The captain looked around and nodded. Make room, he ordered.It was a tight squeeze, but they all fit.Bridge, priority! Thivan called, setting the lift into motion.It took less than a minute to travel from the ships leading edge to the bridge,

where the turbolift spilled everyone out to their stations.As Lt. Commander Bemus, the ships science officer, guided Kodo to an open

seat at his station, Harris dropped into the captains chair.


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Do we have a channel open toEnterprise?Were here, John, Jean-Luc Picards voice replied.Where do you want us, Jean-Luc?Hopefully, they havent detected us yet. Take position behind the inner moon.

Maybe we can catch them unawares.

Gotcha. Conn, take us behind the larger moon. Number One, deploy armor.We dont want to give ourselves away with shields.There is no sound in space, but the bridge reverberated with a repeatingclangof

the hull transmitting the vibrations as each segment of armor materialized and attacheditself to the ships hull.

You didnt tell me you hadVoyager armor! Picard cried from the bridgespeakers.

You never asked.Well talk about it later. Mr. Worf, hail the Tzenkethi.Colonel, monitor it.Aye, Sir, Lt. Colonel Gibson, the commander of the ships marine contingent,

replied.A moment later, the main screen changed to show a split-screen. Picard, standingat the center of theEnterprisebridge, was on the left, while the right side showed theTzenkethi bridge.

Im Captain J ean-Luc Picard of the Federation StarshipEnterprise. Identifyyourself and state your intentions.

So, the Tzenkethi captain purred, the Federation sends its masterconquistador. I am Nack, commanding the Tzenkethi Autarchs ShipCapuni. We arehere at the request of the Intaran government.

That is a lie! Kodo said, turning his chair to face Harris. Wenever invited theTzenkethi.

Somebodymust have contacted them, the captain answered. That ship isdefinitely not a standard raider.

You want weapons? Thivan asked from the starboard tactical station.Not yet. Lets see how Jean-Luc does.We, too, are here at the request of the Intaran government.I find that difficult to believe, Picard.Believe it or not, it is the truth. You are, of course, welcome to visit the planet,

so long as your intentions are peaceful.The Tzenkethi let out a roaring laugh. Peaceful?! You are not qualified to even

utter the word, given the atrocities your cursed Federation has committed! We will notallow you to conquer another planet on our borders. I will make your exaltedEnterprisea trophy on my wall!

Shes arming weapons, Bemus called, relaying the readings from his console.I think its time we revealed ourselves. Conn, bring us around and take position

next toEnterprise. Raise shields.On the screen, the Tzenkethi reacted to the sudden appearance of theNottingham

class starship. Flight Captain! New contact, Federation, but of a type never beforeencountered. Its heavily shielded. I can get no weapons data.

Lets give them some. Charge phasers, energize torpedo bays.


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Charge phasers, aye, Gibson called from the portside as Thivan acknowledgedthe order to energize the ships torpedo launchers.

On the screen, the Tzenkethi captain reacted with an almost Klingon snarl as thenew data was relayed to him.

Captain, Kodo said, crossing the bridge to stand next to Harris, is there a way

for me to talk to the Tzenkethi?The big captain stood up. Of course. Number one, lets join the conversation.Aye, Sir. Channel open.Flight Captain Nack, this is Aram Kodo, Prime Councilor of the planet Intar. I

lead the Intaran government, and I assure you, your presence wasnot requested. Leavenow, and tell your government that we are in negotiations to host a Federation starbase.Your attacks on my world will no longer be tolerated.

Nack appeared to be ready to fight, despite what Kodo had just told him, but thenhe nodded. We will consult with our superiors. But know this: If we are ordered toreturn, it will be to destroy these Federation intruders.

A moment later, the Tzenkethi bridge disappeared from the screen.

Theyre bugging out, Bemus reported.Well, that went better than expected, Harris remarked.Indeed, Picard added, but your timing was perfect.Thanks.And you have my thanks, as well, Captain. Perhaps you can beam back over, so

we might continue dinner, Kodo added. Im rather looking forward to tasting thisHerb-roasted Chicken that is listed as the main course

The next morning, the two ships department heads assembled on board theEnterpriseto discuss what happened.

Something is very wrong here, Commander Worf began. The Tzenkethi arenot known to retreat without a fight, regardless of the odds.

I agree, Thivan added. Theres more afoot here than we know.The question is, what? Picard asked. I cant believe the Tzenkethi would raid

this planet for food. They have replication technology on par with our own.Tom, Harris asked, addressing Lt. Cmdr. Bemus, is there anything about the

planet itself they could be interested in?Not that the scans have shown, the white-haired science officer replied. Pretty

standard mix for a class M planet. Nickel-iron core, some radioactives, iron-silicatecrust. Theres a fair bit of rare earths, even dilithium, but not enough to warrant raids.He looked up from the PADD hed read from. I can do a more in-depth scan, if youlike.

That would be a good idea. Perhaps we can network both ships sensorstogether. That would increase scan resolution greatly.

It would, Picard replied, but Id rather have one of us looking outward, just incase the Tzenkethi come back.

Harris nodded. Agreed. Well scan the planet, while you keep a lookout.Captain, there is one thing I noticed, Gibson said into the lull. Flight Captain

Nack was not what I would have expected the Tzenkethi to send here.What do you mean, Colonel? Picard asked.


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If someone in the Intaran government did invite them, youd think they wouldhave sent a bigger person.

He could have been elsewhere on the ship, LaForge suggested.Uh-uh, Harris answered, raising a finger. I know where youre going. If they

were here to talk, their negotiator would have been on the bridge, ready to talk. That ship

was either a raider, which doesnt seem likely, given her size, orOr someone has told the Tzenkethi of our plans, Picard finished.Perhaps its time to do a bit of recon. Are there any FCO observers on the

planet?Picard shook his head. By the time anyone had encountered the planet, theyd

already developed warp drive.What about liberty privileges? Have the Intarans extended them?That was about the only thing we didnt have a problem negotiating. The

Intarans are nothing if not hospitable in their own way.Then lets find out what the general population thinks, Harris suggested,

especially in the pro-Tzenkethi areas.

Agreed. Lets make it so.

That afternoon, Harris, Thivan and Corwin beamed down to a small city that oneof theEnterprisecrewmen had recommended.

As it was the middle of winter on that part of the planet, the captain and Corwinwore a modified jacket from a set of cold gear over their uniforms. Being from an iceworld, Thivan felt quite comfortable without one. While the captains jacket was thestandard gray and silver color scheme, Corwins jacket sported a winter camouflagepattern, broken only by a single forest green stripe.

That place Michaels recommended should be around here somewhere, themarine remarked. She said they make something remarkably like that cheeseburgersoup you like.

Ooh, Harris replied, a smile spreading across his face. This should beinteresting.

Now youve done it, Thivan said, teasing the marine. Hell insist we all havesome.

That doesnt bother me any. She then pointed to a glass-fronted building.That looks like the place.

The placewas called Kuypers, and appeared to be similar to the cyber cafes ofthe early to mid twenty-first century.

Surprisingly, they found it empty, with only the proprietors there.Good afternoon! the woman who appeared to be in charge called. Are you

from theEnterprise?No, Harris answered. Were from theMarshal Martz. Im Captain Harris,

this is my first officer, Commander Thivan and Sergeant Major Corwin.I recognize you, a man seated in a deeply-upholstered chair remarked. In fact,

there you are on the update channel.They all turned to regard the wide screen the Intaran had indicated where they

indeed did see Harris, as he had been dressed the previous evening.


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Harris turned back. One of the people fromEnterpriserecommended this place.She said you make something remarkably like what we call cheeseburger soup.

Ah, you must mean glaitek stew, the woman answered. Unfortunately, wedont have any of that today. We do have a similar vegetable-based soup, if that wouldbe acceptable.

All of our soups are shown on the board, there, the seated man added.Youre welcome to try a bit of each, the woman said.Thats not a bad idea, Thivan answered.The woman smiled. Let me get you some. Please, have a seat and Ill bring

your samples out to you.The chef chose that moment to poke his head out from the kitchen and say,

Actually, we do have some glaitek stew.We do?Yes. A whole pot.It seems we do have some. Ill bring some of that, as well.Thank you, the captain answered. Well be right over there.

As the woman walked away, the seated man struggled to his feet and walked over.Captain, do you mind if I join you and these two underfed ladies? Im very interested inlearning more about you.

Thivan and Corwin looked at each other, mouthing the wordUnderfed?Harris, having picked up their reaction, looked up and said, Id rather you not

use that particular term, MisterMy apologies. Im Jira Makara.Please do join us, Mr. Makara. To my species, Commander Thivan and Sergeant

Major Corwin are at the ideal weight. Im the unusual one.Forgive me. Before theEnterprisearrived, Id never met anyone from another

species.Live and learn, as the old saying among my species goes.I must say, Thivan added, you have a wonderful place here. It reminds me of

a little coffee shop I frequented while I was at Starfleet Academy.If you dont mind my asking, Commander, Makara asked, I noticed that these

two came in wearing coats, but you dont have one. Why is that?Thivan smiled. On my home planet, Andoria, this would be considered a warm

spring day. While I have acclimated to warmer temperatures, I retain my tolerance forextreme cold.

Interesting. We have some tribal peoples who live in the arctic regions who arelike that. Personally, I much prefer the summer months when we can get fresh fruits andvegetables from local sources.

Speaking of that, Harris asked, what do you think of your governments stancein regard to the Tzenkethi?

Personally, I support free trade with everyone, but Id rather not do it whilestaring down the barrel of a gun.

Well, thats one thing youll never have to worry about when dealing with theFederation. Starfleets Prime Directive forbids us from interfering with the naturaldevelopment of any culture.

Thats good to know.


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Just then, the woman returned from the kitchen with a tray laden with a number ofcups and small bowls. Here we are, she said, placing a bowl of each type of soup onthe menu before them. I took the liberty of bringing each of you a cup of Tanzila.

Thank you. Captain, Ladies, this is my wife, Klia. We were just discussing thesituation with the Tzenkethi. All three nodded a greeting as they took a sip of the

beverage and began tasting the various soups.I dont mind trading with them, but their demands are more than Id put up with.I can understand why the Councilor would be frightened into agreeing, though. Back atharvest, the Tzenkethi raided a number of the local farms. That hurt our business a bit,since we use mostly local-source ingredients, especially the Tanzila beans.

Was that the only thing they took? Thivan asked after swallowing a spoonful ofwhat looked remarkably like Texas chili.

No, they took everything they could get.Corwins sudden gagging sound instantly stopped the conversation, and the two

Starfleet officers were on their feet and at her side instantly.Can you speak? Thivan asked, as dictated by her emergency medical training.

The marine shook her head, mouthing the wordsMy throats on fire!Harris slapped his commbadge. Harris toMartz! Medical emergency, three tobeam directly to sickbay! He nodded toward the table. Leave those. Ill send someoneto scan them. Energize!

A moment later, they disappeared in a cascade of blue and white light.

Ten minutes later, Picard walked into the waiting area of theMarshal Martzssickbay.

How is she? the elder captain asked.Shes resting. Dr. Woods gave her a shot of epinephrine that counteracted

whatever it was.Epinephrine? That seems rather outdated.It may be outdated, Captain Picard, Chase Woods light contralto answered

from the archway that led to the rest of sickbay, but its effective. Besides, Im from theMcCoy school.

That does explain a bit, Picard retorted. What happened?Her symbiotic virus reacted with something in the food. It created a monster

case of acid reflux combined with anaphylaxis. It's like whatever she ate was convertedinto hydrochloric acid the moment she swallowed it.

Ive got the biology people chewing on the problem right now, Harris added.Oh, by the way, Woods added, could you make an announcement to the

marines? Theyre jamming the comm system with status requests for Sergeant MajorCorwin, and theres a line halfway to Leading Edge.

The younger captain chuckled as he tapped his commbadge. Harris to allmarines. You are requested to refrain from calling sickbay to ask Sergeant MajorCorwins status. Ninja Girl is currently resting comfortably and will return to kickingyour asses in a day or two. That is all.

Ninja Girl? Picard asked.Colonel Gibsons nickname for her. Shes a classically-trained kunoichi.Interesting.


22/47

Djalili to Captain Harris.The portly captain tapped his commbadge again. Harris, go.Sir, weve found something interesting. I think youd better see for yourself.The two captains traded a look that spoke volumes. Captain Picard and I are on

our way up. Harris out. Hearing the chirp that indicated the channel had closed, he

nodded toward the door. Lab seven is up in the rollbar. Come on.

Lieutenant Morwenna Djalili was a prototypical British woman. Pale of skin,eyes and hair, she looked nothing like the image that her Persian family name invoked.

She was still looking over the detailed analysis when the two captains entered thelab.

Youve got something, Lieutenant? Harris asked.Djalili turned from the screen and nodded. Yes, Sir. Weve confirmed Dr.

Woods suspicions. Sergeant Major Corwins symbiotic bacteria converted a compoundin the Intaran food into something very close to nitric acid. If you hadnt gotten her tosickbay as quickly as you did

I dont want to go there, Lieutenant, the captain snapped, cutting her off. Youlook more puzzled, though. Did you find something else?I think so, Captain, and it may explain the Tzenkethis interest in this planet.How so? Picard asked.The compound seems to be ubiquitous to every kind of food, so I ran it against

various species physiologies. The only dangerous reaction was the New Hokkaido virus,but I did find an interesting reaction in Tzenkethi physiology. She turned to the terminalbehind her and transferred the readout to one of the large screens on the bulkhead.

I hate to say this, Picard remarked, turning to face the screen, but my organicchemistry is a bit rusty. What are we seeing here, lieutenant?

I started by reviewing the standard toxorg screen that your crew ran when youfirst arrived, finding nothing out of the ordinary, but when the confirmation of the toxiceffects on New Hokkaido physiology showed up, I ran the tests again, using variousminority species. Several produced innocuous compounds, similar to low concentrationcapsaicin, while others produced mild psychoactives, ranging in effect from alcohol tocaffeine. But when I ran it against Tzenkethi physiology, it produced a compoundremarkably like a methamphetamine.

Meth troopers, theEnterprises captain said, grimly. The first time Iencountered Q, he turned himself into one, reminding me that there was a time whenhumanity tried to control its military with drugs.

It seems more trouble than its worth to raid this planet for something thats soeasily synthesized, Djalili remarked.

Not necessarily, Harris countered. Why synthesize something when your ownbody can make it? It wouldnt show up on any kind of drug screening, so you could havetons of the stuff, and nobody would ever know. Its a junkies fantasy and a dealersparadise. He turned to Picard. Jean-Luc, are we sure that the Tzenkethi government isbehind these raids?

Im not sure, but wed better let Admiral Mecum know.


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To say that Mecum was not happy would have been an understatement. Ifanything, he looked close to panic.

If the Tzenkethi are trying to use Intaran agriculture to create ready-made methtroopers, there is only one conclusion to be drawn. Theyll use it to gear up for a war.

Thats our conclusion as well, Admiral, Picard said. And if that is what the

Tzenkethi are planning, the next attack will be much larger.And two starships might not be enough to defend the planet.Theres another possibility, Admiral, Harris injected. This could be the work

of some sort of crime syndicate or rogue element in the Tzenkethi military.Thats also a valid possibility, Mecum answered. He then sat silent for several

seconds, thinking about his next move. In either case, this needs to go upstairs. Whilethe Federation is loath to accept a starbase hosting offer without a formal treaty, we maynot have a choice in this case.

The Intaran government is certainly eager to host a starbase, the larger captaininformed the admiral. With a few exceptions, of course.

Mecum nodded. In any case, youre going to need some more firepower, and

Im inclined to follow my gut. He looked off to his left, reading from the computerterminal on his desk. Im sending you theHammersley, theEsperoand theKumari, thatnew ship just out of Andoria Fleet Yards. TwoDefiantsand a secondSovereignought tomake the Tzenkethi think twice about attacking. Im also sending the construction shipBlount Islandwith a team from the Corps of Engineers. That way, the moment the wordcomes down from San Francisco, theyll be in a position to go to work.

Captain Harris John, if you can get a hosting treaty, Ill sign off on it. Thatplanet needs protecting, and right now, were the only ones who can do it. J ean-Luc,youre still mission commander, but I want you to concentrate on the defense angle. Dowhat you can to give John what he needs.

Understood, Admiral.Ill let you know when I hear something from Headquarters. Mecum out.

Lt. Commander Mike McCune walked onto the bridge of the USS Hammersley,glancing at the two photographs of the ships namesakes. The first was a ship that neveractually existed, being the setting of a drama series. It was anArmidale-class patrol boat,which had served as the backbone of the Royal Australian Navy during the early part ofthe twenty-first century. The second was Admiral John Hammersley, who was one of theheroes of Earths Third World War, and one of the first officers to command EarthsStarfleet. Ironically, Hammersleys first command, the HMASBroome, was one of twoships that portrayed the fictional Hammersley.

His eyes slid down to the ships commissioning plaque, and the motto at thebottom. Unlike most ships, it was not a famous quote. Instead, there were only twowords, which Mike had learned also came from the fictional Hammersley: OffendoPrimoris Strike First.

And theDefiantclass had been built to do exactly that, as it had proven during theDominion War.

His musings finished, McCune stepped to the captains chair, where he found Lt.Kaki Badelt, his first officer.

Morning, X, he said with a smile.


24/47

Good morning, Sir, Badelt answered, her German accent making the D soundlike a T. Did you sleep well?

As well as any other night. Anything interesting happen while I was out?Actually, Badelt said as McCune lowered himself into the seat, I was just

about to call you. Weve received orders from Admiral Mecum to proceed at best

possible speed to the Intar system to assist theEnterpriseandMarshal Martz. Well bejoined by theEsperoandKumari.Very well. Nav, you heard the lady. Set course for the Intar system, warp six.Aye, Sir, the ships flight control officer, Lieutenant, j.g. Harnell Jones,

answered. Though his duties were far more than simply navigation, he didnt mind beingcalled Nav. Indeed, nearly all of the ships department heads were addressed by the samenicknames used by their fictional counterparts. Course laid in, ready for velocitychange.

Engage.Jones fingers danced across the helm, smoothly turning the ship to its new course

and opening the throttle. He then activated the autopilot and turned to face his

commanding officer, as did the rest of the bridge crew. Theyd all agreed early in thedeployment that moving to the conference area at the back of the bridge was silly, givenhow small the bridge was.

So whats the situation, Boss? he asked.Im not sure, McCune answered, reading over the PADD that Badelt had

handed him. These orders say only that the planet needs to be protected until a FOB canbe established pursuant to a Starbase hosting agreement. It seems the Tzenkethi have aninordinate interest in the planet.

Still, Jones mused, itll be interesting to work with theEnterprise.True, Nav, Badelt countered, but Im more interested in seeing theMarshal

Martz. Shes one of those newNottinghamclass deep-range explorers.Hoping to jump ship for a fifteen year assignment, X? McCune teased.I wont deny that I wouldnt jump at the chance to serve aboard one, but Im

okay here. Ill wait until our deployment is up.I guess well know more when we get there, McCune said, handing the PADD

back to his first officer. He then touched a button on the console next to him.Engineering. Charge, we've been ordered to the Intar system at best possible speed.Can we get warp eight for sixteen hours?

Sure, but I'll have to baby them, Kylie Wayne, the ship's chief engineer,answered.

Please do so, Charge. Nav, increase to warp eight.

Thank you for joining me, Prime Councilor, Harris said, holding the door openfor the older man.

Thank you for inviting me, Captain, and especially for the use of yourtransporter device. He grinned as he passed through the portal. I suspect my securitydetail is going quietly insane, wondering where I am.

I promised the head of the detachment that he could use our sensors to keep trackof us. I asked you to join me here because this is where we started to figure out why theTzenkethi are so interested in Intar.


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Captain Harris! Welcome back, came the voice of J ira Makara. I hopeSergeant Major Corwin didnt suffer any permanent damage.

Oh, no. Shes resting comfortably. In fact, thats one reason I wanted us all totalk. Prime Councilor Kodo, this is Jira Makara, one of the owners of thisestablishment.

Its an honor to meet you, Mr. Makara, Kodo said, holding out his hand.The honor is mine, Prime Councilor. I wasnt aware youd be visiting Slanton.Officially, Im not. The captain wanted to discuss a matter of some urgency and

was rather adamant about meeting here.Well, please, sit over here. That should hide you from the street. We certainly

dont want a mob scene, should someone recognize you.Indeed.Ill be right back with some menus.Perhaps we can start with a small bowl of glaitek stew and some tanzila.Unfortunately, glaitek stew is not on the menu today.Im sure whatever you do have is fine, Mr. Makara, Kodo said, ever the

diplomat.Ill be right back.As Makara headed behind the counter to prepare the soup and tanzila, the other

two took seats at the table.So why did you insist we meet here, Captain? While the aroma is certainly

enticing, we could have met in the capitol.Something happened to Sergeant Major Corwin here that gave us the clue we

needed to figure out why the Tzenkethi are so interested in your food products.Why would something happening to Sergeant Major Corwin tell you why the

Tzenkethi want our food stocks?Ill wait until Mr. Makara can join us. He deserves to hear it, since hes likely to

have more of us visiting.As if summoned, Makara returned, bearing a tray laden with the requested items.Here we go. Ill give you a few minutes to look over the menu.Kodo smiled. Theres no need, Mr. Makara. I noticed you had a spicy sausage

sandwich on your specials board. Ill have one of those with a past salad.Of course, Prime Counselor. Captain?Ill have the same, Harris answered. If you would, please ask your wife to

bring the food out and join us. You deserve to hear what we found.Of course. Ill be back in a moment.True to his word, Makara stopped at the kitchen door only long enough to relay

the food orders before returning.Harris took a sip of his tanzila before starting.There is a compound in your food, especially your food plants, that affects

certain species in various ways. Those species are minorities in Federation society, so wedont normally check against them. As I explained during the banquet aboardMarshalMartz, Sergeant Major Corwin has a symbiotic virus in her body that enhances herimmune and regenerative systems. It appears that virus reacted with this compound toproduce a very strong acid. That was the most extreme reaction we found. Mostly, the


26/47

compound produced psychoactive effects; stimulant reactions in some, depressantreactions in others.

But the reaction to Tzenkethi physiology produced a very powerfulpsychostimulant, similar to what we call methamphetamines. We believe the Tzenkethigovernment may wish to use it militarily. The drug heightens alertness and boosts

confidence by stimulating the brains pleasure centers. Its not hard to imagine what sucha drug would do to a soldier.Hed feel invincible, Kodo said, grimly. And hed do whatever it took to

maintain that feeling.Exactly. They tried it on my home world, Earth, some three hundred years ago,

with disastrous results. In the short term, it worked, but the long-term effects eventuallymade the affected soldiers ineffective and uncontrollable, even killing many of them.The scheme was quickly abandoned and conventions were signed to ban such practices.But the Tzenkethi are not signatory to those conventions.

I see your reason for concern, Captain, the Prime Councilor said, afterswallowing a bite of his soup. If they can create these soldiers just by using our plants

in their food, they could create an unstoppable army, at least in the short term.And thats why Ive been ordered to conclude the negotiations for hosting astarbase as quickly as possible. In the meantime, weve established ade factoprotectorate status. Four more ships are en route here. Three are warships which willhelp to defend the planet against any future attack, while the fourth is a constructionvessel with a contingent from the Starfleet Corps of Engineers, who will be ready tobegin construction the moment the agreement is signed.

Makara sat back in his chair. Two days ago, he said, I said that we should beable to trade with anyone, but never staring down the barrel of a gun. But now If welet the Tzenkethi have anything they want, wed be putting those gun barrels to our ownheads.

And that, Kodo added, is a truly frightening thought. Captain, how quicklycan your engineers have permanent defenses built?

We can have a Forward Operating Base built in a matter of days. After that, itwill take one to two years to build a full starbase. We can have fixed system defensesonline in half a year, at most. Until then, well rotate starships through the system toprovide a screen.

The Prime Councilor took a deep breath and slowly let it out. There will likelybe some concessions that the Federation will need to make. Polls show there is a small,but significant, minority of people who dont want a foreign military base here, but mostof them would accept a base under Intaran command.

It was Harris turn to sit back. We have similar agreements with other planets. Icant see why the Federation wouldnt make that concession.

Good. Ill call a session of Parliament for this evening. This information needsto be released to the public, and we need to make an official request.

Ill let Admiral Mecum know, Harris replied as Makaras wife brought theirsandwiches.

J ohn, Im impressed. Youve accomplished more on that planet than anyoneelse has been able to. Im half tempted to reassign you to command that FOB.


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That wont be possible, Admiral. My command came from Fleet AdmiralSakaari.

Yes, I know, Mecum answered. Have the Intarans chosen a CO yet?Not yet, Sir. Prime Councilor Kodo wants me and Jean-Luc to go over some

personnel files.

Ill leave it to your judgment, then. Ive advised theBlount Islandthat theyllneed to reconfigure some of the consoles.Thats good thinking, Admiral. While there are a high number of thinner

people in the Intaran military, their aesthetics cater to heavier types. If I may suggest,Sir, it might be a good idea to load the personnel assigned here with species that tendtoward rotundity. Bolians and Tellarites come immediately to mind.

Agreed, much as I hate to say it, but we need to show these people our best, aswell.

I understand your attitude, Admiral, but were still guests here. If we try toohard, they can still ask us to leave.

Do you think thats likely?

Not at this time, but this agreement is rather fragile. We dont want to press ourluck.Mecum bit his lip. Ill take your suggestion under advisement. Mecum out.As the screen went dark, Harris leaned back and blew out a sigh. Mecum did his

best to hide it, but the captain could see the admirals sizeism starting to show. It wassomething Harris had seen before, and knew how to deal with.

But first, he needed to talk with Picard.

When An Rentoshi was told that he was to go aboard one of the Federationstarships, he didnt expect to have his atoms converted into a matter stream and thenreassembled moments later. Frankly, it made him uneasy, but he was an Intaran soldier,so he stoically endured the process.

A young andverythin woman was there to meet him as the room formed aroundhim.

General Rentoshi?Thats right.Im Ensign Stirling. Im here to escort you to your meeting with Captains Picard

and Harris.Very well, Ensign. Please lead the way.As they began walking, the ensign regarded the rotund man in the khaki uniform.

General, may I ask you a question?Of course.I mean no disrespect, Sir, but How did your culture come to embrace obesity?

Its not a very healthy way to live.Rentoshis first instinct was to snap at the girl, but he hesitated, silently reminding

himself that, though she looked Intaran, she was an alien, with very different attitudes.We werent always this way. A century ago, a lot of people believed as you do. Butmost of our cultures have always seen size as an indicator of wealth and power, and asfood became more plentiful, the general population began getting bigger. The ThinPreachers became more obnoxious about diet and exercise, and size became a source


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of discrimination, with many industries, especially transport, refusing to adapt to thechanges in their customers. Ultimately, it became a civil rights issue, like sex or race hadbeen in times past. Our culture was forced to adapt.

I see. Thank you, General.He waited until the girl set the lift into motion before commenting. You dont

approve, do you?Its not my place to say, General. I was merely curious.Please, Ensign, speak freely. I wont be offended.She hesitated, trying to find the right words. Ive always been taught that a

persons health is the most important thing they have, and that it should be nurtured asmuch as possible. To see an entire culture turn away from that Frankly, Sir, it sickensme.

Rentoshi considered his words very carefully, again reminding himself that hewas speaking to an alien. Im told, he finally said, that your highest law prohibits youfrom interfering in the natural development of other cultures. Is that right?

Its not our highest law, but it is Starfleets Prime Directive, yes.

Then you would not try to change someone into something they have no wish tobe, would you?Absolutely not! Every member of Starfleet would rather die than do that.And how would you react to someone who tried to force you to deny who you

are?I She nodded. I understand, Sir. Thank you.We are aliens to each other, Ensign, though we may look the same. In time, Im

sure well come to accept each other, and Im sure some will even embrace yourattitudes. Some already do. Thin Preachers still exist, after all.

General Rentoshi to see you, Sirs, Stirling announced as she stepped aside to letthe large man enter the conference lounge.

General, Picard said, offering his hand, welcome on board theEnterprise. ImJean-Luc Picard, this is Captain John Harris of theMarshal Martz.

Of course. I saw you on the update channels.Please, have a seat. Would you care for some refreshment? We have a number

of light finger foods available.Thank you. They smell wonderful.The two Starfleet officers resumed their seats as Rentoshi lowered himself into

the third seat at the end of the conference table and idly began loading the small platebefore him with some of the various finger foods that had been provided. Harris andPicard followed, though not to the same extent as the Intaran.

Would you care for some tea, General? the larger captain asked. Its a varietyknown as Earl Grey, which originated on Earth.

Yes, Captain Harris, thank you.Rentoshi took a bite of the deviled egg he had picked up and chewed slowly. An

interesting flavor, he said after swallowing. You arent having one, Captain?I dislike the taste of eggs, Harris answered.I see. Of course, Im sure you didnt ask me to come aboard to sample your

finger foods.


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Quite right, Picard answered. Ill let Captain Harris explain.Harris quickly swallowed the sip of Earl Grey he had taken, and placed the cup on

its saucer. With the evidence thats come to light about how your food affects variousspecies and the state of your defenses, your government has made a formal request to theFederation to begin construction of a starbase immediately, rather than wait until all of

the details are worked out. As part of this initial hosting agreement, there is the provisionthat the base commander would be Intaran.Prime Councilor Kodo provided the personnel records of several officers he

considered good candidates for that command, and asked me and Captain Picard to makethe final decision, since the personnel assigned to the base would be interacting withStarfleet the most, both here in system and Starfleet Command.

Your records show that youve had extensive space experience, includingcommand of one of your exploration vessels. Youre well-respected, both by yourgovernment and your subordinates, and that you have How can I put this withoutoffending

Youre speaking of my daughter and her family, I take it, Rentoshi answered.

Our culture may have turned its back on what you would consider a healthy lifestyle,Captain, but there are some who still embrace and even preach it. My daughter hasalways been a contrarian.

We thought that, Picard explained, someone with your family experiencewould be better able to deal with the aesthetic and physical standards Starfleet strives tomaintain.

Rentoshi was suddenly confused. Yet, Captain HarrisIs an anomaly.I suffer from a rare genetic disorder, Harris explained, which makes my body

replenish fat cells at an accelerated rate. If not for that, I would be as thin as CaptainPicard.

I see Of course, I accept the honor.Good, Picard replied. Since were accelerating the construction, well

essentially be building three different types of bases, upgrading each to the next level.The first, which we call a Forward Operating Base or FOB, is designed to be built andput into operation very quickly. Its designed to provide housing and basic support forforward deployed personnel and ships in a combat area.

The second stage will be an upgrade to whats known as a Deep Space Station.Like the FOB, a Deep Space Station provides housing and support, but adds repair andsupply facilities as well as permanent administration and basing facilities.

The final stage will be an upgrade to full starbase, adding major repair,construction and refurbishment capability, as well as a satellite campus for StarfleetAcademy and enlisted training facilities. Normally, a flag officer, such as yourself,would not be assigned to command until the base reached full starbase capability, butPrime Councilor Kodo believes that, due to the state of the planets defenses,coordinating with Starfleet should be a major command.

I understand. Has a location been chosen?Your government has offered three sites


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Okay, you apes, this is the situation, Commander Maahes Bob MRowri saidto the assembled engineers aboard the construction vesselBlount Island. Starfleet hasbeen granted use of one of the Intarans major ground bases for a FOB, which will thenbe upgraded to DS and then Starbase status.

Why not just build a Starbase? Hans Agnew, MRowris computer expert,

asked. Because the Tzenkethi want the planet, and we cant let them have it. To thatend, the Federation has ordered that we treat the Intar system as an associated state. TheCaitian touched one of the buttons on the podium, and a plan of the existing baseappeared.

Since this is an existing base, he continued, most of the basic necessities havealready been taken care of. Administration is in this building, housing in these. Hans,well need you to upgrade the computer and communication systems. Im sure theyll beassigning some engineers of their own, so youll need to work with them.

There is one thing were going to have work around. Everything that can be satupon will need to be strengthened and most of the standing consoles will need to be

converted to be operated from a seated position. Ive checked the records, and wealready have replicator patterns for them. The reason were doing it this way is that theaverage Intaran is what most of our species would consider obese, but its part of theirculture, and its not our place to try and change them. If I hearanyonedenigrate anIntarans size, there will besevererepercussions. Is that clear?

Yes, Sir! the engineers chorused in unison.Good. Weve got three days to fabricate the active parts of a basic FOB

package, and two weeks to build it. Were going to need sensor and defense satellitesASAP, which means well also need to build a command and coordination center. Teamone, thatll be your job. Teams three and four will build a transporter center and shuttlemaintenance facility, while team two takes care of the systems upgrades for the existingbuildings. I dont know when well be resupplied, so well probably have to makeextensive use of replicators and prefabs, though Ive been informed that Starfleet will berotating ships through the system until we can get the defenses built.

Any questions so far?What about rec facilities? one of the junior engineers asked.Not a priority at this time. Those will come later, but thanks for reminding me.

Team five Sorry to stick you with it, but youre on the plumbing. Upgrade thesanitary facilities as best you can, including sonic showers. The existing power gridprobably wont be able to handle the load well be putting on them, so lets find a placeto set up a fusion power plant.

Medical facilities? the ships CMO, seated at the back of the briefing room,asked.

Well be utilizing the existing facilities for now, so anything that isnt meatballsurgery will probably need to come up to the ship or to one of the others. Intaran tech isabout two hundred years behind us, so its not total barbarism. All I can say, Doc, is havea look at what they have and well upgrade it when we can.

Any more questions? No? Remember, we have three days before we reach theIntar system, then two weeks to build the FOB. Lets get to it!


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Communications update for you, Sir, the young enlisted man said, handing theAndorian captain the small PADD he carried.

Thank you, Chief, Ritan thNar answered, scrolling through the update. Hethen handed it to his first officer, Commander Senek. It seems the Intar situation ischanging by the hour.

It certainly seems that way, the Vulcan answered. The Intarans certainly seemreceptive to Captain Harris.Im not surprised. My niece speaks very highly of him.Senek raised an eyebrow. I do not recall niece being a standard Andorian

relation term.ThNar grinned. Thats because shes not a standard Andorian. Shes zhesh.I see.Shes also Harris first officer.He was about to say more when the duty tactical officer called out, Captain,

sensor contact! Looks like a Tzenkethi cruiser.This far inside Federation space? thNar asked, turning to regard the human.

Thats damn peculiar. Yellow alert.Aye, Sir. Yellow alert.Hail him, Mr. Greene, the Andorian added, turning back toward the main

screen.No reply, Captain.Open a channel.Channel open.Tzenkethi vessel, this is Captain Ritan thNar of the Federation starshipKumari.

You have violated Federation space. You are ordered to stop engines and state yourintentions.

Receiving a signal, Sir.On screen.The main screen changed to show the cramped bridge of the Tzenkethi cruiser,

and the hulking figure at the center.Our intentions are not your concern. Interfere at your peril.A moment later, the screen went dark before returning to its default setting of

forward visual.He seems quite verbose, Senek deadpanned.ThNar looked askance at his first officer. You sure youre notV'tosh ka'tur?Like most Vulcans, Captain, I seek to master my emotions. However, I

subscribe to the belief that one need not completely suppress them to master them.I see. Lieutenant, whats the Tzenkethis course and speed?One-six-one mark eight, the tactical officer responded. Hes moving at warp

seven point two. Thats close to known maximum for that class ship, Captain.The Intar system does lie on that course.And hes in quite a hurry to get there. Conn, increase speed and overtake. I

want them to feel us brushing their whiskers.Aye, Sir. Increasing to warp eight, intercept in six minutes.Very good. Red alert.


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Instantly, the bridge lighting went red as a muted version of the red alert klaxonsounded. On the decks below, however, the klaxon was not so muted.

Phasers charging, torpedo bays loading, the tactical officer reported.Prepare to deploy armor, thNar ordered.Armor ready on your order.

Might I remind you, Captain, that the armor cannot be deployed at warp.The Andorian nodded, confirming the Vulcans admonition. Well use it if hedrops to sublight. Tzenkethi like to slug it out whenever they can.

Of course, his course and speed would indicateCommander Senek?He may be trying to spoof the vessels already in the Intar system, Captain.

Tzenkethi have been known to use sensor screening technology.Y es And theyd have to start much farther out because theNottinghamclass

has the best mobile long-range sensor suite in the whole fleet. They touted that duringthe appropriation process. Lieutenant, is he trying to jam our communications?

No, Sir.

Then get me theMarshal Martz.

Commander, call from theKumari, the marine at tactical reported.On screen, Sergeant, Thivan answered, turning the captains chair to face the

main screen.A moment later, the screen changed to show the bridge of the Andorian flagship.

Hello, Arli, thNar said. Is your captain available?Hes on the planet. Whats with the red alert, Uncle?Were chasing down a Tzenkethi cruiser. We think hes trying to spoof your

long-range sensors.Thivan looked over at the science consoles. Anything on long-range sensors?The duty science officer checked the screens, working the console before him

with speed and finesse. Im reading six contacts heading this way. The oneKumari ischasing is blending in with her.

There should only be four. Advise Captains Harris and Picard that the Tzenkethimay be trying to spoof their way into the system. Do you need any help, CaptainthNar?

ThNar grinned. No, I think we can deal with this one. Im looking forward tomeeting that captain of yours. ThNar out.

Thivan stood up as the screen

Documents

STAR TREK: TALES OF THE MARSHAL MARTZ Episode 12: "Size Matters"