The Valiant - Michael Jan Friedman [82]
Indeed, Picard replied, that is the agenda I had intended to follow. However, it occurs to me there is something more we can accomplish here before we return.
Explain, said the Kelvan.
As you will recall, said Picard, we were told about a supply depot that the enemy had set up on this side of the galactic barrierone that seemed to be a critical part of their invasion plans.
Greyhorse thought he could see where the second officer was headed. You want to scout out this depot?
Picard shook his head from side to side. !lt; No, he told his assembled officers and allies. I want to destroy it.
The doctor looked at him, struck dumb by the audacity of his declaration. So, apparently, was everyone else sitting around the table.
Are you sure thats wise, sir? asked Paxton.
I believe it is, said the second officer. For one thing, you saw how easily we handled those two Nuyyad ships.
But not without the help of the Magnians phaser batteries, Ben Zoma reminded him.
No question, Picard responded, the colonists on the ground played a critical part in our victory. However, I believe we would have defeated the Nuyyad even without their assistance. Our enhanced sensor and tractor functions provided us with a much greater tactical advantage than I would ever have imagined possible.
Let me understand this, said Simenon, his slitted eyes narrowing in his scaly face. You want to attack an enemy installationwhere were liable to face a force considerably larger than two ships? And you want us to do it entirely on our own?
The second officer leaned forward. I want to take the Nuyyad by surpriseand they wont be expecting a countermaneuver so soon after their assault on Magnia. On the other hand, if we opt to alert the Federation and watch them put together a task force, the Nuyyad will have had time to increase the strength of their defenses.
Are we even certain there is a depot? asked Greyhorse. Wasnt that just the bait in the Nuyyads trap?
It exists, the second officer insisted. Shield Williamson has given me the coordinates.
Can we believe him this time? asked Cariello.
A fair question, Picard told her. But since our arrival here, the colonists have made good on all their promises. I no longer feel compelled to question their sincerity.
Nor do I, Simenon conceded.
The elimination of the depot is a worthwhile goal, Vigo observed. One worth taking a risk to achieve.
Exactly right, said Picard. We can vastly improve Starfleets tactical position, giving Command the time it needs to prepare for an invasion or perhaps even head it off.
If were successful, Simenon argued.
Of course, the Pandrilite conceded. However, we can send out a subspace message either way, so the Federation will be warned about the Nuyyad even if the Stargazer is destroyed.
Well? asked the second officer. Do we go after the depot or not?
Glances were exchanged as everyone present considered the question. It was Jomar who finally broke the silence.
I am in favor of attacking the depot, he said.
Vigo turned to Picard. So am I.
Ben Zoma shrugged. Im convinced.
Same here, said Paxton, though without as much enthusiasm.
Simenon shook his head stubbornly. Ill grant you, the Magnians give us an edge in a fightand so do Jomars vidrion-laced shields. But its not that big an edge.
Im with Simenon, said Cariello. I was on the receiving end of a Nuyyad advantage once. I dont look forward to being there again.
That left Greyhorse.
As the others looked to him, he frowned at the scrutiny. Im no tactician, you understand. However, I too have to agree with Mr. Simenon. Enhanced shields, sensors, and tractor beams dont inspire much confidence when stacked against an indeterminate number of enemy ships.
Picard nodded. Thank you for your input. He swept the table with a glance. All of you.
Youre welcome, said the engineer, his ruby eyes gleaming. But what are you going to do?
The second officer looked at him. I have not been swayed from my original inclination, he noted. We will break orbit and head for the depot as soon as I can coordinate the details