Chapter Text
Captain Archer’s brows were pulled into a deep frown as he turned in his chair and faced the two officers he had called to his ready room. He still did not like what he had to tell them. With those two at least he was sure he would not get any annoying discussions. T’Pol stood straight like always, her face showing only the tiniest hint of mild interest. Beside her, Lieutenant Reed displayed an even straighter back, hands clasped firmly behind his back. Archer could not remember seeing one of them relaxed ever. He took one deep exhale before breaking the news.
“Admiral Forrest contacted me this morning. He had an urgent – request – he called it, but I am certain he will make it an order before long. Enterprise is to escort a scientist to the neutral outpost at Acada Prime for an interstellar conference. Apparently, this is some great honor for humankind and a breakthrough in interspecies relations. When I asked him why he needed our vessel for this affair, I learned that speed is of utmost importance and that there are certain security issues involved.”
At this, one of Reed’s eyebrows lifted slightly. Archer quickly skimmed his monitor to reconfirm the facts.
“Professor Dubois is one of the leading experts in biological Exoanthropology. Her research has been causing quite a stir in the scientific community. Apparently, not only on earth. There are some who accuse her of being politically motivated. Fact is she has been receiving numerous death threats recently. Three days ago a conduit in her lab exploded injuring one of her staff. Some people obviously fear her ideas being exposed to a wider audience.”
“Dr. Phlox showed me her recent paper some weeks ago,” T’Pol threw in. “She does excellent work, very precise setups and analysis. Her conclusions, however, are somewhat… bizarre.”
“Bizarre enough to murder her?” Reed asked doubtfully.
“She compares space faring species on multiple levels – from genome to behavior to cultural analogies. Her speculation is that at least some of them share a common origin on a deep down ancient level.”
“I can see how this might cause uproar among certain people.” Archer put a PADD on his desk and gave it a little shove in Reed’s direction. “In three days we will pick up Prof. Dubois on Jupiter Station. I am making her safety your priority, Lieutenant. You will find all available information here. Let’s bring her back safe and sound.”
Reed nodded and took the PADD. “Yes, Sir.”
“There might be some problems concerning her stay at Acada Prime,” T’Pol noted.
“How so?”
“I have been there before. It is an outpost solely intended for civilian scientific exchange. Only scientists are allowed to attend. Weapons or security details of any kind are strictly banned.”
“I am sure Mr. Reed will think of something.” Archer wanted this to be over soon. His mission was exploration not chauffeur services involving possible assassinations. “Dismissed.”