Posted by Lieutenant Cara Esmé Mardusk (Counselor / Education Specialist) in Court Martial of Cara Esmé O’Farrell

Posted by Captain Kelly Bordeaux (Commanding Officer) in Court Martial of Cara Esmé O’Farrell

Posted by Captain Kelly Bordeaux (Commanding Officer) in Court Martial of Cara Esmé O’Farrell
Posted by… suppressed (28) by the Post Ghost! 👻

The courtroom felt pristine and clinical but also familiar and safe. The cases were being tried in one of the small diplomatic rooms on the ship. This made it feel familiar to those from the USS Atlantis with its familiar furniture and decor. What made it feel antiseptic was the arrangement of the room. A large table sat along the left wall with five chairs filled with five Admirals occupying the spot a jury normally sat. The accused sat in a chair perpendicular to the Admirals and facing McDevitt along with the opposing counsel James Hudson. There were no other seats in the makeshift courtroom which was by design. This was not going to be a spectacle. Starfleet wanted the trials over and done with minimal disruptions.

Cara was laughing internally at the curious and confused expressions on the Admiral’s faces as they stared at her lawyer. They had chosen not to explain why she was graced with the counsel of Regent Drekn Noggra. She had been informed that he was not only a direct descendant of the founder of the Klingon Nobel House Noggra, but was the former Klingon Ambassador to the Federation and Romulan Empire. They had decided that allowing that information to come to light during the trial would only provide strength to the proof this was a dishonorable court. When asked to enter the plea, he entered the plea of ‘Not Guilty’ to all charges. To say Cara was honored by his representation would not begin to cover how she felt. The appearance of Drekn Noggra to her defense had made quite clear the situation she had gotten herself into.

When Cara was called to the stand her lawyer, a very large and imposing Klingon simply grunted, and she stood and walked to the center chair. She placed her hand on the scanner, and the computer intoned loudly. “Verify Lieutenant Cara O’Farrell. Current Assignment: USS Atlantis. Star Fleet Command Decorations: Archer Ribbon for Conspicuous Bravery. Federation Council Decorations: Federation Star for Distinguished Service.”

Lt. Hudson inwardly held back his eye roll. People on trial always thought that their prior good deeds meant they would never be beyond reproach. It was as if a past action would exonerate any future wrongdoings. Hudson had no doubt the woman was an expert in her field and earned those merits in the past. The keywords in Hudson’s mind were past. It would be up to the judges to determine if the current charges would be erased or a blot on the officer’s record from today forward. Standing up he moved to the center of the room looking at Cara.

Cara was an expert in body language, and Hudson wasn’t so well versed in hiding things that she didn’t pick up on the dismissal of her awards. Well that was fine, what he didn’t seem to realize was she was entitled to have the whole thing read, AND it had bearing on the charges against her.

“So Lt. O’Farrell, how long have you been a part of the crew of the USS Atlantis,” Hudson asked the woman.

JAG lawyers

The counselor smiled politely at Hudson as if they were having a friendly conversation. “I arrived on the Atlantis on Star Date 2398070.7 So two years, nine months, and six days.”

Lt. O’Farrell, counselor

“Has Captain Bordeaux been your commanding officer during your time here or have you served under another commanding officer on the USS Atlantis during that time,” James asked matching the friendly tone being exhibited by the officer on trial.

“Aye, she has been. She has never been removed from her position. She was, of course, in sickbay due to the life threatening injuries she sustained. The CO of record was never altered. Though a Captain Primrose did try without orders ta bypass the ship’s chain of command and take over. If he had orders he never formally or informally presented them. But ta succinctly answer yer question, No, I have never had another commanding officer while on board the Atlantis.”

“And how would you describe overall your career experience on the Atlantis over that time generally speaking? Has it been fulfilling, stagnating,” Hudson let his voice trail off waiting for her to respond.

Hudson JAG

Cara smiled even more, “Oh I find my role as a counselor quite fulfilling. And the use of stagnating is quite far from that. If ya had checked my most recent qualification, Sir, ya’d see that I’ve added some qualifications ta my resume. That was done by my own wish, and with the full support of the command staff, my DH, and the other officers servin’ in counseling with me.”

Lt. O’Farrell, counselor

“So it is safe to say you support your captain? Have faith and trust in her command decisions.” Hudson was careful with his choice of words.

hudson

Cara laughed softly. She could play games with words too. “Sir, I am no privy ta the Captain’s specific orders. I am not a member of the senior staff. Well, I am now, but that is a recent development since my return from Leave. Before now orders have been disseminated after the Captain has conferred with her senior staff. I believe it is more accurate ta say I trust the Captain ta weigh all the information and perspectives of her officers and make the best decision she can. My orders have never caused me ta question my ethics nor asked me ta break any Federation law.”

Lt. Mardusk, counselor

“But you have an conduct unbecoming of an officer violation,” Hudson read the charges. “Tell me Lt. who is Donovan O’Hara.”

Hudson

Regent Noggra stood. “Objection: the opposing counsel is providing Hearsay. The Lt has not been found guilty of the charge.” The Admiral, “Sustained. Counselor Hudson, you will refrain from acting as judge of these proceedings.”

Noggra sat down and the Admiral looked at Cara, “You may answer the question, Lt.”

She smiled at him. “Of course, Admiral.” She looked at Hudson. “Donovan O’Hara is the older brother of a boy I went to school with.”

Lt. Mardusk, counselor

“So you know the family,” Hudson stated further probing her statement.

Hudson JAG

“I’m sorry counselor, could ya be more specific? As I’ve stated I am aware of who Donovan O’Hara is and that his younger brother attended the same the same school as myself. Know is such a broad term, and has varying levels.” Cara smiled, seemingly eager to answer his question. Regent Noggra gave her an approving look. Ask for specifics, and don’t give him a chance to twist her words. It would happen eventually if Hudson was as good of a lawyer as it was claimed. No need to offer it up like a targ for dinner.

Lt. Mardusk, counselor

“So would you say you know him only in passing as know the face of someone as in walking down the street or in reputation as in That is Donovan O’Hara?”

Hudson JAG

“If he were ta walk down the street, and I saw him, I would be able to say, ‘that is Donovan O’Hara,’ yes,” the counselor answered sweetly.

Lt. Mardusk, counselor

“And is that because everyone in the town knows him or it is because it makes you feel powerful and special knowing the local drug dealers? Let me repharse that,” said Hudson knowing the objection was coming before the opposing counsel could state it.

“Objection” Regent Noggra boomed as he stood. Yes Hudson was rephrasing, but he made the official objection anyway.

“Tell me Lieutenant is it your practice to be in places where known drug dealers live and work close enough that if you walk down the street you know them not only by name but also by face and familial relations?”

Hudson

Cara looked at him like a specimen in a bottle. “Does it make you feel special and powerful ta spend yer time in places where potential criminals are?” The smile faded, “Or is it simply a byproduct of yer job?”

Hudson stared at Cara with a neutral expression. Lt. my job is to be where potential criminals are. I don’t do it for fun like you apparently do. He kept his comment to himself. Her arrogance on the stand would only impact her case.

She shook her head, “Lt Hudson, I come from Comeragh, Ireland, Earth. It is so small a village it’s not on a map. Our population is anywhere from 200 ta less than 500. We all know each other by sight.”

She leaned back in her seat, folded her hands, “As for hangin’ out where drug dealers live, I don’a know of any on the Atlantis. Perhaps ya should check with security. None have been referred ta me.”

Lt. Mardusk, counselor

“As you stated Mr. O’Hara is not part of the crew. Your comment is not relevant. He is not on trial. You are.” Walking back to his table, he stayed “Tell me about the last time you had contact with Mr O’Hara”

Hudson JAG

Regent Noggra stood looking thoroughly disgusted, “Objection. My client never accused anyone of criminal activity, nor did she state anything about Mr O’Hara’s profession or lack thereof. I respectfully request the court to refrain Counselor Hudson from drawing conclusions and putting words in my client’s mouth.”

“Sustained. Hudson refrain from creating testimony. We are more than capable of drawing our own conclusions”

“Thank you, your Honors.” Then he turned to Cara on the stand, “Do not answer that last question, Lt.” Cara smiled sweetly and nodded. Noggra turned back to the judges. “The incident to which Counselor Hudson is referring is a current criminal investigation by Star Fleet Security, the Federation Security Agency, and the Klingon High Council. My client is not legally allowed to discuss it. If the court insists, I must insist that you contact Director Rujat Suwadi of FSA and Rear Admiral Bennett,” who was of course all of their bosses and the head of the Star Fleet Judge Advocate General’s office.

Lt. Mardusk, counselor

Hudson nodded and decided to move on. “Lt. do you own a pair of tarq’s?”

Hudson JAG

“Yes, I do.” So they were to that then. This was an absurd charge, and if Hudson had actually done his homework, he would know it was a baseless charge. She was sure he would feel like an idiot when he realized how bogus this particular charge was.

Lt. Mardusk, counselor

“And how did you come about owning these animals,” Hudson asked in a neutral tone.

Hudson JAG

Cara had returned to the welcoming polite demeanor, drawing Hudson into a friendly conversation. “Oh, they were a gift from Lord T’Kor Drakenol, lord of House Noggra. House Noggra is known throughout the empire and beyond for the quality of their breeding and training programs. I was quite surprised and highly honored by the gift.”

Lt. Mardusk, counselor

“Our records indicate you brought them with you to the Atlantis. While pets are allowed there is code 42.694 which states all pets must have a valid FCDC Vaccination Record and,” he stressed the word “and they must complete a 28-day quarantine at the FCDC animal care facility. I see you completed the vaccination paperwork but there is no quarantine paperwork.” Hudson looked at Cara. It was minor but no where in any official documentation was the quarantine paperwork. There was just the vaccination record. If he could not find it, it didn’t exist.

Hudson.

Cara smiled sweetly and relaxed, “Oh, that’s because they were declared an official diplomatic gift ta a Star Fleet Officer from a foreign entity and were approved by the Federation Diplomatic Corps. Had ta be, Mr. Hudson. After all, we wouldn’a want people gettin’ the idea the Klingons were tryin’ ta bribe officers, now would we? Ta put yer mind at ease, they did undergo quarantine. Ya see, ya probably looked in the wrong place for the records. Federation customs regulations for live animals falls under code 42.694. However, how that code is enforced is determined by the Federation Veterinary Council of the FCDC. If ya check the records, there is a notation next ta the quarantine requirement. House Noggra provides targs all over the quadrant. As such, per FCDC internal regulations, they may provide a quarantine facility on their transport ship, that is over seen by a FCDC official. It’s all signed nice and neat if ya look.”

Regent Noggra stood, walked over to the judges and handed them a PaDD showing the appropriate paperwork. The approval of the facility on the IKS Ghol, the official assignment of FCDC Veterinarian Janna Kingsly, and the approved quarantine paperwork for the targs in question, by Dr Janna Kinglsy. There was also a copy of the paperwork with the notation highlighted, that listed the regulation number, and a copy of the regulation that allowed for the provision of a quarantine facility on a non-Federation transport vessel. Regent Noggra then handed a PaDD to Hudson with the exact same information. “This should clear up this misunderstanding.”

Lt. Mardusk, counselor

Hudson let her talk. He hoped she would go into a reason and Cara did not disappoint him. “So you used your rank and file to get special treatment? I mean the average officer in Starfleet does not have to go through the channels to deal with private gifts from a foreign entity.” The disdain in his voice was clear. Cara was only a Lieutenant. Her husband had more rank so he probably had more connections. The fact that she sat so smug in her seat prattling on about how she received special treatment proved she used her position to elevate herself above her average crewmen. “Typical officers have to go through the same channels and not sneak around using friends of friends to get what they want.” Hudson walked to the judges and looked at them. He had known of her route to get the targs on board. “The Lieutenant’s verbiage has waffled between hostility and insincerity this trial and she just admitted to using private friends to get what she wanted. This case was just a targ but the question you need to ask is what else would she do to further her private ambitions.”

Hudson JAG

Regent Noggra stood and his deep resonant voice filled the room without trying. “Objection Assumes facts not in evidence, Objection to Foundation, and I also object to the opposing counsel’s soliloquy. Does he intend to allow my client to answer the questions he’s opposed, or is he simply rambling and drawing conclusions for the court again?”

Lt. Mardusk, counselor

Judge Marshall looked at the Klingon counselor. “What are you objecting to that is not in evidence? That your client did not use diplomatic channels to get the targs on board instead of the general protocol because this paperwork clearly states, that you provided to the courts, that the quarantine was on a Klingon ship and specifically that it was a non-Federation ship? Are you now saying this did not happen?”

Judge Marshall

“I object to Mr Hudson’s following statements: ‘So you used your rank and file to get special treatment?’ Which he didn’t allow my client to answer, and followed that with a conclusion that his question was fact and evidence, without proving such. His following statement: ‘Typical officers have to go through the same channels and not sneak around using friends of friends to get what they want.’ He has not provided any facts or potential evidence that my made the request through the diplomatic corp, whether she knows anyone personally connected to the diplomatic corp, nor that she arranged for the delivery of the targs directly or indirectly herself.”

Lt. Mardusk, counselor

There were two complaints here so Marshall would speak to each one directly. Marshall looked at the Klingon lawyer before letting his gaze drift to the court reporter. “Can you play back the Lieutenant’s statements referring to diplomatic channels.” The court reporter scanned the file and pressed play.

In a tinny artificial voice the computer stated =/\=“Oh, that’s because they were declared an official diplomatic gift ta a Star Fleet Officer from a foreign entity and were approved by the Federation Diplomatic Corps. Had ta be, Mr. Hudson. After all, we wouldn’a want people gettin’ the idea the Klingons were tryin’ ta bribe officers, now would we?=/\=

“Pause,” Marshall stated turning his gaze back to the Klingon lawyer. “Your client has gone on record stating that she knew they were declared a diplomatic gift. She went on to state for the record that they didn’t want people thinking about bribes so are you now trying to say she knows nothing about it because her prior statement and tone indicate she knew exactly how the targs were coming on board and that it was not through normal channels? I am not sure what there is to cross-examine her on unless she wants to change her reply and add perjury to her charges.”

Judge Marshall

Regent Noggra’s brow went up as he stared at Marshall. “Having current knowledge is not the same as prior knowledge, your honor. And I believe Counselor Hudson’s question, and the charge against my client, is about the quarantine that the targs in question did not undergo. Evidence has been presented that they did undergo the required quarantine, under the approved guidelines of the FCDC. Never was any charge brought against my client as to how the targs were classified. Code 42.694 pertains to the arrival of animals, into Federation territory from outside its borders. The targs were delivered into my client’s possession on Earth. They did not require further quarantine after they were approved for delivery.” The charge was questioned, answered, and evidence provided. Hudson was trying to introduce non-relevant facts to distract the judges from the specific charges. He was trying to muddy the waters, was the human saying.

Lt. Mardusk, counselor

“It was until your client began to flip flop on how she wants everyone to perceive what happened on the events,” the head judge stated in a firm tone. “The question posed was that did the Targs complete a routine, run of the mill quarantine stay at an approved Federation facility. Your client,” Judge Marshall looked at Cara, “did not and admitted to using diplomatic means to bring the animals on board bypassing the traditional route. Heck she even stated some off hand comment about bribery which I am sure we don’t want to get into the weeds with on that flippant comment so I suggest you move on or question your client. Do you have anything to add on this charge or are you resting on this charge?”

Judge Marshall

bump

The Regent raised his chin slightly and turned to the Lt. “Lt Mardusk, did you purchase the targs, Hall and Oats? No, do not answer that yet.” He crossed his arms over his massive chest. “Place your hand on the scanner please.” Cara nodded and did so, “Computer begin polygraphic analysis of witness’ statements.” (OOC: Used in TOS episode Wolf in the Fold)

“CONFIRMED POLYGRAPHIC ANALYSIS OF WITNESS STATEMENTS”

The Regent nodded, “Now please, Lt. I am going to ask you a series of three questions. Please answer two with the truth and one with an obvious lie. In any order you like.” He looked at the judges, “Just to make sure the program is calibrated correctly.” He turned back to Cara, “Please tell the court your name, your current ship assignment, and to whom you are married.”

“Cara Esme Mardusk,” the light on the scanner light up green. “The Good Ship Lollipop,” the scanner flashed red and the computer’s voice toned, “WITNESS IS GIVING FLASE STATEMENTS.” Cara then answered the final question, “Gravel Mardusk of House Noggra,” to which the computer went quiet and the scanner turned to green.

The Regent grunted, satisfied, “Thank you, Lt. Now please answer my original question. Lt Mardusk, did you purchase the targs, Hall and Oats?

“No. They were a gift from Lord Noggra. No compensation of any kind changed hands.”

“Did you ask him, in any way, for this gift, or offer favors in exchange for receiving them.”

“I did not.” Cara said firmly and the light stayed green.

“And when did you become aware of being a recipient of this gift?”

“The evening before my weddin’ when my husband, then fiance, brought them ta my parents’ house. Stardate 2400041.3.”

“You were unaware that Lord Noggra would be sending a wedding gift to his adoptive son?” The Regent asked with a bit of skepticism.

“Gravel, Lt Cmdr Mardusk, did tell me when we got engaged that he had ta inform Lord Noggra. He also told me that Lord Noggra would most likely no be able ta attend but would send a gift,” Cara answered. The scanner stayed vibrantly green.

“If you did not know that Lord Noggra was sending targs as gifts, how do you know he used diplomatic protocol to deliver them?”

Cara waved a hand at a PaDD on the desk. “It was in the paperwork. When they were delivered, Gravel checked the paperwork ta make sure they had passed through customs correctly. We also checked with the office of housing on the Star Fleet office of Housing on the official policy for the ownership of domestic animals. They signed off on the customs and diplomatic paperwork, and told us they had to be checked by the medical staff of each transport we boarded and again once we arrived back on the Atlantis. We were ta follow any restrictions set down by the medical staff. We submitted all that paperwork at each transport and ta Dr Dolittle here on board. There are also requirements for yearly exams and vaccinations, but we no had them long enough for those ta come do again.”

Drekn grunted, “Were you at any time told by anyone with any authority or knowledge of applicable policies, that you, your husband, or the targs were in violation of any of those policies.”

Cara shook her head, then paused, “Only once, Regent. When these charges were leveled against me and I was presented with them at the senior staff meetin’ by JAG officer McDevitt. Until then we had been told that everythin’ was in order and filed appropriately.”

“And what did you do when presented with the charges, specifically those pertaining to the targs?”

“I checked all my records o’course. I read the charges ta determine where the lapse was said to have occurred. Then I contacted Federation Customs and the Diplomatic Corp and double checked all the information we had been given. I resubmitted all of it ta the court. I also contacted Dr Dolittle and explained ta him and asked if we needed ta have them quarantined until this was settled. He said no. That they were perfectly healthy, and had gone through quarantine already and there was no reason ta suspect they had been exposed to anythin’. He did do another thorough exam and blood work ta be certain.”

Drekn watched the scanner the whole time, and nodded approvingly of the solid green light. “Alright, thank you Lt. Just one last set of questions. Let’s address the reason Lord Noggra used diplomatic channels to transport the gifted targs. Why was that?”

Cara shrugged, “I don’a know, Regent. Ya would have ta ask him.”

“Lt. you testified,” and he picked up a PaDD and read, “the following: ‘Oh, that’s because they were declared an official diplomatic gift ta a Star Fleet Officer from a foreign entity and were approved by the Federation Diplomatic Corps. Had ta be, Mr. Hudson. After all, we wouldn’a want people gettin’ the idea the Klingons were tryin’ ta bribe officers, now would we?’ Is that correct?”

The counselor nodded, “Yes I did say that.”

“If you don’t know why Lord Noggra chose a diplomatic route why did you make the previous statement? What facts are those based on?”

“My statement is based on my own supposition, Regent. Ta avoid political misunderstandin’s, that is why the diplomatic corp has such rules and regulations.” Cara didn’t shrug, and she understood why the Regent was asking.

“You didn’t ask Lord Noggra when you called to thank him for the gift?”

Cara licked her lips and a small smile flickered across her face. “No, I haven’a thanked Lord Noggra for the gift.” Drekn scowled at her. That was offensive. “My husband did, and as far as I know he didn’t ask Lord Noggra’s reasons.”

“Why didn’t you speak with him? Were you trying to avoid asking tough questions, Lt?”

“No, I was not.” Cara looked at the judges, Hudson, and back to the the Regent, “When Lord Noggra called ta congratulate us, I was blissfully passed out that mornin’ after our very long weddin’ night. My husband didn’a feel the need ta wake me for a comm call.”

The Regent looked at her. Cara thought he might roar with approval, but restrained himself. He glanced at the judges with a smirk though, and back to Cara. “A wise warrior, your husband. One final question, Lt. Just ta clarify, to the best of your knowledge, did the targs undergo all the required inspections, exams, quarantines, paperwork, and regulations required?”

“To the best of my knowledge, yes Regent, they did,” Cara answered, the scanner still glowing green.

Lt. Mardusk, counselor

Hudson looked at the officer and could barely contain his disdain for the woman. Officers like her bent the rules and twisted words to make themselves sound like the perfect officers who obeyed the rules and selflessly devoted their lives to the Federation. The fact was they spent their career climbing on the backs of others for their own selfish dreams and goals just as Perkins said. Hudson would stop them, not because of the intelligent group of Admirals mentioned this but as his civic duty to stop the destruction of the Federation. “No further questions. I think the Lieutenant has had enough time to back pedal, forward pedal, and side pedal her testimony.”

Hudson sat down ending the line of questioning.

Judge Marshal looked at both lawyers with a neutral expression. “Are we at closing arguments then,” he asked.

Hudson JAG

Regent Noggra stood and addressed the admirals with a great deal of respect. “We have no been allowed to address the two fraternization charges or the conduct unbecoming an officer charge. Unless of course, the court is going to drop those due to the larger on going investigation by FedSec, SFSecurity, and the Klingon High Council. Otherwise, I must insist that my client be allowed to defend against those charges.”

Lt. Mardusk, counselor

Bump

Bump

Judge Marshall looked at Noggra. “The court will deliberate on the facts it has been given by boths sides but if you have more to share it is your right to present it. Lt Hudson is the only one resting his case. You do have the floor if you choose to take it,” Marshall gestured to the Klingon Lawyer.

Judge Marshall

bump

bump

OOC: Sorry for the delay. Life has been too much lately and I just haven’t had the mental capacity to deal with a trail. LOL

IC: Regent Noggra stood, “I have no further questions for Lt. Mardusk at this time. I withhold the right to recall her at a later time.” With the judges approval Cara stepped down and returned to her seat beside Regent Noggra. “I would like to call Dr. DoLittle to the stand.” The doors opened and in walked a precocious looking fellow in medical blue and Lt Cmdr pips on his collar. He walked over to the witness seat and sat. He set his hand on the scanner. “DoLittle, Jerry, Lt. Cmdr. Current Assignment USS Atlantis“

“Dr. DoLittle, you are the veterinarian on record for the targs, Hall and Oats. Have you personally examined them?” Noggra asked.

“Yes, I am and I have. There are no other veterinarians on board. I do have a technician and a nurse, but they are not qualified to examine any animals on their own.”

“Are you familiar with the Federation customs regulations for live animals?”

“Of course. Any animal, domestic or research falls under code 42.694. The Federation Veterinary Council of the FCDC determines exactly how that code is enforced. Any animal coming from outside the Federation has to undergo a complete physical and vaccination routine and a 30 day quarantine.”

The regent nodded, “And are there any other requirements specifically for domestic animals?”

“Just like humanoid passengers they have to pass a physical exam upon coming on board. If there are any missing vaccinations they will be given, or extras if there are specific concerns on a particular ship. If the animal is not old enough or for some reason can not have the vaccinations, they will be quarantined. Depending the situation that can be in a bioquarentine area in sickbay or to the owners quarters.”

“Can you explain the process for clearing the targs to come aboard?” Noggra asked.

“Of course,” DoLittle said. “I was informed by Lt Cmdr Mardusk prior to their arrival back on board that they were bringing two domesticated targs with them. Upon their arrival the CMO of their transport, Dr. Vekla of the Ptolemy, arranged to have them transported directly to sickbay to be checked. She also sent over all their records and we discussed her evaluation of them and any concerns she had. Lt. Mardusk met me in sickbay and Lt Cmdr Mardusk transported over with the targs. Once they arrived I did an immediate physical exam of both and found them to be very healthy, if a bit rambunctious after several ship changes. I took blood samples and had them sent to the lab. Then I checked over their medical files. They had gone through the appropriate quarantine on the IKS Ghol under the supervision of Dr Janna Kingsly. Their vaccinations were up to date, but a booster was due two weeks after their arrival. We made an appointment for them to return with Hall and Oats to get receive the booster. I had already checked for any possible species specific health risks on board. There were none, so I cleared both targs to leave sickbay, with a recommendation that the Lt and Lt Cmdr make sure they get some much needed exercise to help with their energy.”

“Thank you Dr. Just one further question. Lt. Mardusk testified that when she was presented with the charges that she brought both targs back in to see you. Can you tell the court what transpired?” the regent asked.

“Lt. Mardusk brough Hall and Oats in to see me. She also had a PaDD with all of their records on it, which I already had a copy. She also brought a copy of the charge and asked me if they should be quarantined until the charges were resolved,” DoLittle said. “I told her no. That they had both passed their physical exams, were up to date on their vaccinations, and had gone through their quarantine already. I spent the next few hours with Lt. Mardusk, going through the targs’ records. We contacted Dr. Janna Kinglsy on the IKS Ghol, the customs agent who approved their arrival on Earth, the diplomatic corps office about their approval and arrangements to transport the targs. Everything there seemed to be in order, so then I contacted each of the approving doctors on each of Mardusks’ transport vessels on their way to the Atlantis to make sure no corners were cut. I found nothing concerning, and allowed Lt. Mardusk to take Hall and Oats back to her quarters with her.”

“Thank you doctor.” He looked at Hudson, “Your witness.”

Lt. Mardusk, counselor

“No questions,” Hudson waved his hand dismissively. He had made his case against the Lieutenant. It did not matter who they strolled into the courtroom, Hudson knew his case was solid. The evidence had come from the highest levels of the Starfleet judiciary system. Those that had contacted him about the case were dead on with their assessment. These Starfleet officers would say and do anything to avoid justice. Hudson did not doubt that those called as witnesses for the defense were not brilliant in their fields nor that every scrap of paperwork would back up what they were saying on the stand. What he was struggling to believe was the depth of the conspiracy surrounding these officers. So many people were willing to perjure themselves for this ship. Captains, Commanders, Lieutenant Commanders and even Admirals were backing them in equal numbers as those against them.

Hudson avoided looking at the judge’s bench. The last person he wanted to make eye contact with Admiral McLaren. That smug officer was probably smiling and gloating at the parade of people Noggra sent up to the stand. They were all in on clearing the crew no matter what. Maybe when they found the Lieutenant guilty during the sentencing phase he could bring charges up on everyone else that stood up as part of their defense.

Judge Marshall looked over all the documents submitted by the defense as Noggra cross-examined the witnesses. He felt a slight wave of relieve hearing Hudson give up the opportunity for cross. Hudson had said enough in Marshall’s opinion. Folding his hands he rested them lightly on the desk. “Thank you Counselor Noggra. Unless you have more evidence to produce I think we can move to deliberations.”

Judge Marshall and Hudson JAG

Noggra inclined his head, “Indeed I do, your honor.” DoLittle stepped down and left the room. Noggra picked up a PaDD and approached the judges. “I have here signed and sworn affidavits with recorded testimony from Attache K’Musar of the diplomatic corp who approved the gift, Director T’shesol of the FCDC. She has also submitted the plans, approvals, and subsequent quarterly inspections for the facility on the IKS Ghol. There is also a signed and sworn affidavit from FCDC Agent Rolil Th’achalik who was the customs agent that completed the intake and approval of the targs when arriving on Earth.” Noggra handed the PaDD to Judge Marshall.

“At this time, I would like to call Dr. Janna Kinglsy of the FCDC, assigned to the IKS Ghol to the stand.”

The door opened and a human woman entered. She was wearing a suit, was slightly plump and scanned the room as she took the stand. She placed her hand on the scanner. “Kinglsy, Janna, Doctor of veterinary medicine Federation Center for Disease Control, assigned to off site quarantine facility on board the Klingon Vessel IKS Ghol,” the computer intoned.

“Dr. Kinglsy will you tell the court what your job is?” the Regent asked.

“I am a doctor of veterinary medicine. I am assigned to a quarantine facility. My job there is to ensure any animals coming into the Federation from outside its borders, or from worlds known to have outbreaks, are evaluated, healthy, and not silently carrying any adverse pathogens. The facility I am attached to, is on board the IKS Ghol. The facility is run by Federation rule and I am subject to our laws,” Kinglsy explained.

The disdain Hudson held for the Klingon and his witnesses was barely held behind a neutral expression Hudson wore. He took a sip of water and watched the proceedings.

“And what is the purpose of having this facility on a non-federation ship, Doctor?”

“Animals must go through quarantine when they enter the Federation. Since they are already on board a ship and quarantined by default against outside influences for the duration of their trip, it just makes sense to combine the two. It lessons the time the animals are isolated, and they can be delivered much more quickly. Baring complications of course.”

Regent Noggra snorted, “You mean so that the new owners can get their animals and not wait longer for the rules.”

Kinglsy shook her head, “No. People can deal. It’s better for the animals. Many are very social animals and especially domesticated animals need to be placed with their owners quickly to ensure bonding and acclimation to their new environment. Kept isolated too long, animals can become depressed and lose the will to live. A journey in a star ship, isolated like that is very traumatic to a pet that does not understand what space travel is. It is healthier for the animals.”

“Can you tell us about the targs Hall and Oats?”

Kinglsy then went into a very long and very specific explination of the process of brining the targs on board, their examinations, details of their health and behavior profiles along with charts showing their daily exams and weekly blood tests.

“Your witness,” Noggra said to Hudson as he sat.

Lt. Mardusk, counselor

“No further questions,” Hudson waved his hand as if fanning away a foul scent. His evidence stood firm. The judges would have to be blind not to see the parade of sycophants desperate to be on good terms with those whose name ended in Mardusk. Now that Cara had it as protection, she was probably thought she was untouchable. Her husband was a Lt. Commander and her mother-in-law was an Admiral. That Admiral was on especially good terms with the Captain who seemed to run the Atlantis like a personal yacht rather than a Federation starship. It was natural that the counselor would believe her new family name would protect her. When the jury reached a verdict, she along with the rest of this crew, would see that Admiral Perkins and his camp was the winning team to align with and not the menagerie ran by Admiral McLaren.

“Thank you Dr. Kingsly,” Judge Marshall stated in a neutral tone. The woman’s credentials were rock solid and the quick scan he did of her record showed nothing but exemplary service. “You may step down. Thank you for your testimony.”

Hudson and Marshall

Dr. Kingsly nodded, “Yes you’re honor.” She stood and made her way out the door. The door didn’t even close before another figure stepped inside. Rear Admiral Bennett, the head of the Star Fleet Judge Advocate General’s office. She walked right past Hudson, dismissing him as if he was nothing, and stopped in front of the judges. “I want to know why my explicit orders to drop the charges of fraternization against Lt. Cara Mardusk were not dropped. This farce is threatening a 5 year deep cover investigation that spans three political powers and three quadrants.”

Lt. Mardusk, counselor

Judge Marshall was fed up with these trials on the Atlantis. In all his years serving on the bench, he had never seen more tampering with court proceedings by either side. He eyed up Admiral Bennett and began to try and figure who was lining her pockets. It was either Admiral McLaren or Admiral Perkins. Both men had made their opinions equally clear on what they thought the outcome of the trial should be. McLaren wanted all charges dropped. Perkins wanted to send everyone to prison for as long as possible. There had to be a middle ground and that was Marshall and the other two judges on the bench. There was a reason there were five of them on the bench. It broke any ties and made things fair. “Admiral,” Judge Marshall stated in a neutral tone hiding his irritation with Bennett. “As a member of the Judicial branch I am confident you have a reason for making a scene in my courtroom in such a manner.”

Judge Marshall

Rear Admiral Bennett nodded, “Forgive the intrusion, but it is imperative that this breach of orders be dealt with before this goes any further. I am prepared to read three of you in. However, Admiral Perkins and McLaren don’t have high enough clearance.”

Lt. Mardusk, counselor

“Clear the room,” Marshall ordered. His tone left no room for debate.

Cara gave the Regent a curious and confused look. She had no idea why Bennett was there. She hadn’t spoken to the woman in years. He just nodded and walked her out of the room. Two of the ship’s security officers escorted them to a private office to wait, away from where Hudson and the judges could question or speculate around his client.

He waited patiently as the room emptied looking Admiral Bennett up and down. As soon as the doors closed Marshall let out a frustrated breath of air. “First off rank is not an issue in this room,” he stabbed a finger on the desk driving home his point. “I don’t care if you are a Rear Admiral, Vice Admiral, full Admiral or the damn President of the Federation. The courtroom is hallowed ground. It is free of rank and the authority rank holds. That is the only way anyone gets a fair trial. Hell Bennett,” Thurgood stated still frustrated, “one of the charges brought against Lt. Mardusk was that she used her rank to bring in some damn pets instead of going through proper channels. You storming in there like some savior ready to toss around rank and protocols presents an optic that she did precisely what she was charged for. Now,” he held up a hand, “I am not saying she did that or that the charges aren’t a witchhunt against her but you have made my job increasingly more difficult to pronounce fair and non-judicial judgment. I will have McLaren trying to force a mistrial based on your behavior to clear the Lieutenant and Perkins will be trying to use this to show she is guilty for using her connections to avoid punishment.” Marshall was angry but it would be clear that he was more concerned about the fairness of the lieutenant’s trial over how he would be liked or hated for his ruling. “However, since you did bowl your way into my courtroom what the hell is so important you had to stop the trial.”

Judge Marshall

Bennett listened as Marshall berated her. “So if she did, find her guilty. FIne her, throw her in the Brig, or send her to a penal colony. As for intruding, well you were in between witnesses. I’ve attempted to contact you, the other judges, even the prosecutor, with no answer. If that is a comms malfunction, conspiracy, or the inadequacy of a yeoman somewhere, I don’t know. I was left with no choice but to come here personally. I’m only here about the charges relating to one Donovan O’Hara. Two and a half years ago, Cara O’Farrell was part of a task force that was charged with bringing down The Confederation of the Pious.” The judges, being admirals, should be aware of the incident and the confidentiality the witnesses and those involved were kept. Nothing was leaked. “One of the things that the Pious did, was to use Red Haze to drug their victims to make them more pliable when kidnapping them. When Lt Mardusk’s sister and friends were drugged with Red Haze, she contacted Detective Maifer Ararr of the Federation Security Agency Narcotics division. He was part of the original task force.”

“Now, if it had ended there, I would not be here. However, after apprehending Donovan O’Hara and confiscating his illegal drugs, it was discovered that the Red Haze he was in possession of is the same chemical formula as that used by the Confederation of the Pious. The task force is being recalled. This investigation, and any guild Lt Mardusk carries in concern to it, is of a much larger investigation that spans not only the entirety of the Federation, but the Romulans Empire, the Cardassian Union, the Klingon Empire, and even into the Feregni Alliance. The investigation by the prosecution into this matter, despite being ordered to cease and disist, is jepordizing an investigation and work to retrieve people where were abducted by the Pious. This has spread into years of work. This particular matter falls into a bigger jurisdiction than what this court covers. The intergalactic courts have jurisdiction here. Whatever Lt. Mardusk’s involvement with Donovan O’Hara, any crimes she may or may not have committed will be investigated and tried there.”

“As for the other charges, I have no information, nor do I have any stake in the outcome, nor do I want to know.”

Lt. Mardusk, counselor

“So what do you want me to do,” Marshall looked at Bennett with a raised eyebrow? “Walk into the courtroom and say disregard all testimony about O’Donovan?” It was, in a sense, a rhetorical question. It was something Marshall could do and if it was going to help end this farce of a trial he would. Standing up he motioned for Bennett to exit the room. “Your point is understood but for the record, it was not a conspiracy or cover up in regards to you trying to contact me. I did not respond because I did not want it to appear I was participating in judicial misconduct. I will tell the court to ignore the part of the case pertaining to O’Donovan. Now unless there is anything else I have a trial to wrap up.” Admirals in general tended to give Marshall a headache. McLaren, Perkins, Bennett…they were all the same and Marshall was ready to send them all packing.

Judge Marshall walked into the room and waited for it to fill again. Clearing his throat, Judge Marshall addressed the courts.

“As to the charges Article 133 of the UCMJ Conduct unbecoming of an Officer and Health Code Violation - undocumented paperwork for exotic animals. The Lieutenant is not guilty. The Targs were brought in with all paperword in check and approved. There was nothing that was suspicious or out of order.”

“Article 134 of the UCMJ Fraternization with a superior officer the court finds the accused innocent of all charges and not guilty. One can not fraternize with a spouse. Well they can but the court is not interested in hearing about that.” Judge Marshall’s tone was light and humorous. The charge was ridiculous and laughable. “Also of note, the law was not applied correctly here. The statue maintains that it is only fraternization with an officer and an enlisted personnel. The last time I checked both the counselor and the security chief are both officers.”

“Moving onto the last charge UCMJ Article 112a: Wrongful Use, Possession, etc. of Controlled Substances.” Judge Marshall paused careful with his words. The last thing he wanted was to destroy the current investigation Bennett mentioned. “The lieutenant is innocent of all charges. After a thorough investigation of her office and quarters along with detailed interviews with a multitude of individuals, there is zero evidence Lt Mardusk has or ever been involved with any controlled substance.” Looking over at Bennett, Marshall gave the Admiral a barely imperceptible nod.

“I would like to say one other thing,” Marshall looked at Hudson. “Mr. Hudson please do not bring bogus and ludicrous charges back into my courtroom against innocent people. I will not tolerate a witch hunt again. You have been warned. Case dismissed.”

Judge Marshall