[Paradise-IV] FW: 970211.20- Joint Log: Capt Dharmajiva, CO & Drake Gates, CIV
Paradise-IV Logs
-----Original Message-----
From: Mav [mailto:mavewi...@gmail.com]
Sent: Saturday, February 11, 2012 8:40 PM
To: parad...@googlegroups.com
Subject: SD: 970211.20- Joint Log: Capt Dharmajiva, CO & Drake Gates, CIV
~.\~ Start Log ~.\~
<OOC: Occurs just before Vin and Co set of some explosives>>
Drake was quickly orienting himself to Paradise IV. So far he had
experienced nothing but good things. His next 'quest' if it could be
called such, was to meet the commander of the Starfleet detachment
assigned to the planet. It was not on his list of favourite things to do
but he recognized its necessity. As he walked through the military camp,
spying the officers, neatly dressed in their crisp uniforms, he was
reminded of what could have been. Had things worked out differently in
his past, he could easily have been one of these officers. But that was
not to be his fate apparently.
Entering a new room Drake spotted an NCO. "Drake Gates here to see
Captain Dhamajiva."
"And Captain Dharmajiva here to see Mr. Drake Gates of Drake
Enterprises" interrupted and corrected the demi-cardassian. "If you
don't mind Mr. Gates, I am on my way to correct a situation that has
occurred. Do you mind terribly if we walk and talk, or would you prefer
to wait until I returned?" questioned experienced Captain.
He placed a couple of PADDs and wordlessly spoke volumes to the NCO that
Drake Gates had spoken to just by pointing to a couple of places on the
PADD. Returning his attention to the civilian he waited for the man's
answer.
"Not at all," Drake replied as he tried to hide his surprise. He was
unaware that Dharmajiva was part Cardassian. "I'd much prefer that
myself after all it is a lovely day," Drake added.
He fell into step besides the Captain. As with all Starfleet Captains,
Dharmajiva commanded an air of respect with tremendous ease. There was
also a serious tone about him that told Drake that this was a man who
did not like beating around the bush. "As I am sure you are aware, I am
in the process of providing transport services to Paradise IV to expand
the reach of its resource-rich mining operations. I thought that since
we might soon be partners that I should approach you to introduce myself."
"Your message said as much, but it really didn't say anything about you
now did it?" questioned the Captain as they strode out of the office.
With some slight amusement he continued "Now, how do you suppose that is
an introduction?" The grey skinned officer kept his cards close to his
chest at the moment. It was hard to trust someone on the fringes of
society, especially those that don't wear the uniform.
A message, an introduction barely, stating just a name, a business and
an intent was acceptable for textual communication only. The Captain
had to get to know this man, and he wondered... really wondered how this
man would react to find out that Starfleet wasn't interested in anything
other than establishing a government for these people. Still, play his
cards right and Vin might be able to open up another avenue for incoming
shipments, something that Operations was desperately after.
Drake smiled. "My apologies Captain," he replied. "That's the shrewd
businessman in me always wanting to keep my cards close to me and off
the table. I meant no ill intent by it. But here I am in the flesh. I
was hoping to introduce myself in person seeing as how there is a strong
possibility that we might be working closely together."
More amusement would have been had were it not for the current situation
that the planet was in. The demi-cardassian's mind had slightly drifted
away, thinking about how he was going to make sure what was needed to be
done down in those caves become done. Have this whole alter reality
slip away like a bad dream. But, here was this human 'introducing'
himself. He seemed a personable enough fellow, it was because of this
that the Vin allowed such a meeting to continue. The Captain was
definitely known for ending meetings short when he didn't like the
situation.
Pausing their stride Vin turned to look at the Entrepreneur. "Mr.
Gates, simply put the supply and demand chain is essentially for
Starfleet personnel is fully run by Starfleet personnel. So I am not
sure what you are getting at here? Bluntly, what are you after Mr.
Gates?" the whole questioning was not portrayed in an offensive manner,
even though it could be 'read' as if it were, the way the Captain looked
at Drake and the way in which he intoned was more amused than aggressive.
Drake grinned. Truly, this was a man who liked to get straight to the
point...or was that because he was in a hurry? He was well aware of the
inter-dimensional phenomenon on the colony and he suspected like any
dutiful Captain, Dharmajiva was undoubtedly closely monitoring the
situation. For a moment Drake pondered questioning him as to the
specifics of the situation but decided against it.
Clearing his throat Drake spoke, "We both know that a colony this far
out from core Federation space cannot operate completely independently.
There is mutual dependence between the colonist and the military wing of
the Federation. This is even more apparent on Paradise given our nasty
Xeleucian neighbours. I understand Starfleet is limiting its fleet
presence in this sector of space, which undoubtedly has or will impact
your supply lines. This is where my services comes in. I am a shrewd
entrepreneur Captain and while my investment largely lies with the local
government, I understand that their growth and future is intricately
dependent on the continued operations of your people."
"So essentially... Drake... you think that, if you scratch our backs,
help us aid the supply of the Federation citizens on this planet. Bring
along the required assets to make this planet more bearable, that it
would enable us to set up a local government quicker, but also have you
entwined into not only what Starfleet needs to continue in the region,
but also what the civilian government will need on this planet." The
serious side was easily reverted to by the Captain. "You didn't need to
tell me this Drake, I do understand somewhat of how business works."
Drake nodded mildly surprised but ultimately pleased that this Starfleet
Captain had a well-rounded view of the planet and its inhabitants.
"Basically, Drake. I don't think I would mind being caught up in your
business. The events on this planet have been quite significant and
difficult. The Starfleet runs are stretched as it is." rubbing his chin
before the two men continued on their walk the Captain warily intoned.
"Starfleet needs your contract for supply. Heck, the whole Fourteenth
Fleet does, but that is something you should discuss with the Admiral.
If it means that you are inextractable from the civilian society, well
then so be it. You strike me a legitimate business man."
"Indeed," Drake replied without missing a beat. "I built my business on
honesty and I endeavour to keep it that way."
He was surprised by how well this conversation was going. He had thought
he would face significant resistance in offering cargo services to the
Starfleet detachment on Paradise IV. But the Starfleet Captain had
suggested it without Drake mentioning a word. He had even gone as far as
to suggest a contract with the entire Fourteenth Fleet. Perhaps they
were in more dire need than he had anticipated. He made a mental note to
follow up with this Admiral.
"Well, here is where we have to part ways, I hope you can find your way
back. Talk with Ops about how you can boost their supply runs, see
Saladin. He's the go to guy down... damn. Actually just see Ops.
Saladin is no longer with us. In any event Mr. Gates, I have to leave,
hopefully I am onto saving a world right now." Before they departed the
Captain decided to continue. "Next time Drake, we will meet somewhere,
over some sort of refreshment to keep the 'meeting' casual. I look
forward to seeing you again."
Drake nodded. "I look forward to the day," he responded.
Captain Vincent Dharmajiva
Commanding Officer
Paradise IV
Drake Gates
Civilian
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