The Valiant - Michael Jan Friedman [64]
We like to think so, Williamson replied.
How is Santana? Picard inquired.
The colonists expression sobered. She suffered considerable damage. However, our physicians tell me shell be all right.
Thats good to hear.
Williamson indicated the arched doorway with a gesture. Shall we? he said, and led the way.
His offices were expansive, with rounded, pastel-colored furniture, ornate moldings, and an entire wall full of oval monitors. Each screen showed them a repair effort in a particular part of the city.
Picard looked at their host. Your defenses, I take it?
Yes, said Williamson. I dispatched teams to our shield generators as soon as I knew that the Nuyyad were gone. He gazed critically at one screen in particular. Unfortunately, theyre not gone for good. The Nuyyad are eventually going to figure out what happened to their shipand when they do, theyll be merciless.
Picard had no doubt of it. After all, he had experienced the Nuyyads propensity for violence firsthand.
I dont suppose youve had a chance to plan for that contingency? the colonist asked him optimistically.
The second officer shook his head. I must admit, I have not. However, I am of the mind that Magnia and the Stargazer can help each other out of this predicament if they so choose.
Rest assured, Williamson told him earnestly, my people will do anything you require of them.
I am glad to hear you say that. Mainly, we are in need of parts to replace those the Nuyyad destroyed. Though I realize your technologies and ours may have developed along different lines, I am hopeful that you either have the necessary parts on hand or can manufacture them for us.
The colonist shrugged. I would be glad to have my engineers take a look at the specifications.
And in return, said Picard, glancing at the oval screens, we will see what we can do to expedite your repair schedule.
Williamson nodded. That would be much appreciated.
Are you familiar with the Kelvans? Ben Zoma asked.
Unexpectedly, the other mans expression seemed to sour. I am, he said. Why do you ask?
We have a Kelvan on board, Ben Zoma explained, an engineer named Jomar who seems to know Nuyyad tactical systems pretty well. You may want to consult with him.
Williamson didnt answer right away.
Judging by your expression and your silence, Picard asked, am I to infer that youve had conflicts with the Kelvans?
The colonist frowned. Theyre not the Nuyyad, he said, Ill grant you that But those few weve met have been arrogant and untrustworthy in their dealings with us.
Picard smiled. Jomar can be arrogant at times. On the other hand, hes absolutely dedicated to stopping the Nuyyad from invading the Federation. If I were you, I would take advantage of that dedication.
Williamson thought for a moment, then nodded. All right. In the interest of working together, well welcome this Jomar as well.
Good, said Picard. But before we work out the details, I would like to know more about the Nuyyads interest in your world as it may shape some of our tactical decisions.
Of course.
From what I have seen so far, the second officer went on, the Nuyyad did not have any presence here on your planets surface. They seemed content to remain on their vessel.
Thats true, the colonist responded.
Then why bother to come here at all? asked Ben Zoma.
Williamson smiled ruefully. Actually, he said, it was your fault. Your Federations, I mean.
Picard was surprised. The Federations?
Thats right, the colonist told him. A short time ago, the Nuyyad got wind of your existenceapparently, from a species that routinely crosses the galactic barrier. Theyre known as the Liharon.
Picard nodded. Yes I am familiar with the Liharon. They are traders, for the most part.
They trade, all right, said Williamson. But not material goods. Their main business is information.
Again, the Earthman was surprised. The Liharon are spies? No one in Starfleet has ever suspected
Of course not, said the colonist. If everyone knew the Liharon