[Galaxy] 19 Jun, Duty log, Whittaker/Gallagher - Fleet Plot

[DwarfPlanet]

[ Earth, Starfleet Headquarters ]

"Enter," responded Captain Whittaker to the knock at his door.

Commander Gallagher entered and stood before the desk.  He held a PADD
which he promptly handed over.  "Lankford has reported, Sir."

Lieutenant Commander Victor Lankford was one of their top field agents,
"top" primarily because he had the moral flexibility to take on any
assignment.  Most field agents would only go so far, so ingrained were
they in Starfleet principals.  At the moment, Lankford was investigating
a report from New Darwin regarding Naussicans and "practical
invisibility screens" formerly only encountered under Romulan control.

Whittaker took the PADD and began reading.  "Give me the executive
summary, Commander," he instructed Gallagher.

"Lankford reports that the Naussicans have indeed been given Romulan
screens.  However, they are treated as mission-specific issue and not
intended for long-term use outside of Romulan purview.  They are
instructed in the devices' use, but not repair or even maintenance.  He
suggests that some have even been sabotaged for limited operation."

Whittaker sat emotionless as he listened and scanned the PADD.  "What's
this Klingon connection?"

"Lankford believes that the Klingons have been gifted several 'invis
screens' under similar conditions as the Naussicans, but the Klingons
are more organized and can negotiate trade agreements for more permanent
arrangements.  He believes they've put some of their warship designs on
the table."

"And the Romulan response?"

"More interested in keeping the advantage for themselves, at this
point."

Whittaker continued coldly perusing the PADD, inwardly thanking God for
small favors.  He set the PADD aside.  "Any word from Ibarra?"

Lieutenant Julio Ibarra was another of those "top" agents, investigating
the Romulan intelligence network.  "Nothing yet, Sir.  Preliminary
check-ins suggested his new lead was promising, but he was far from
developing an effective counter-espionage plan."

"And his _last_ check-in?"

"Overdue."

Whittaker paused a moment, considering.  "If he's on to something, I
want a full operation in play.  I'll clear it with the Boss, you prepare
a mission outline with personnel recommendations."

"Yes, Sir," Gallagher said as he turned to leave.

"And Gallagher," Whittaker said, stopping the commander.  Locking eyes,
he said simply, "Find Ibarra."


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Captain Whittaker
Starfleet Headquarters

Commander Gallagher
Starfleet Headquarters