It was a cool morning the temperature was in the comfortable 60 degrees. And nearly every table at the Federation Cafe that was situated outside was full. The Cafe was basically the Mess Hall for the Federation Officers and Enlisted, it was located on the outside of the Federation District.
Richard was sitting at a table alone drinking his second cup of coffee this morning going over the Federation News on a PADD. Richard's father was on the Colony apparently to visit his estranged son. To Argyle Wallace's mistaken belief his son had avoid him nearly the last three days.
"Mind if I take a seat Ricky?" A familiar voice asked Richard and he put the PADD on the table and looked up at the person that was his father. With out a word, Richard gave a look of tolerance and approval for the Elderly man to take a seat.
"You know sir, I have not gone by that name in 28 years. You can call me Richard or Commander." There I broke the cold ice and informed him how I felt about that business, now if I could just as easily open up about everything else.
"Sorry son. Just last time I talked to you in person you were just becoming a man." Mister Wallace said with a very sincere tone.
Richard didn't say anything he thought a few things but then blurted something out. "Well look at me now. I have gray hair in certain spots. I am getting wrinkles. I am not your little Ricky anymore." A look of annoyance and disapproval was more ever present on his face a look that Richards father was not used to.
"So I see son. Though for a man who has lived the lifestyle you have I can understand why."
That does it. Richard ran his right hand over his face and gave a scowl. "Know here comes again your disapproval me in Star Fleet. Well, I didn't ask for your criticism of my choice. I've done allot to better our country and yes it's come to take a heavy toll on me but so what. You remember what happen when I told you that I took the Star Fleet entrance exam and passed?" Richard leaned back and crossed his arms.
This was a heavy burden on his father over the last 25 years and he regraded it dearly. He couldn't reply to Richard's question for that would of hurt himself again. He only shook his head in a manner of shame.
"Oh, I see too damn proud to admit that maybe you were too hard on me. Let me refresh your memory. No you told me that if I go through with it that I will be disowned and considered an outsider and not welcomed in your home.
See I can see that day clearer in my head then what happen 2 days ago. So why are you here?"
"I am here to....," Argyle Wallace tried to explain it but couldn't.
"Yeah that was what I thought. Not even the courage to say your sorry. You are something I hate and dispise." Richard's comm badge beeped interrupting a family moment. Upon tapping his comm badge he notice his father had tears running down his face.
"Wallace here."
[Commodore Hunter and I need to see you in his office right now. Lieutenant McGrady out.]
"Excuse me father dear. Work calls. You can stop by my office and have more tender family moments if you chose." Richard stood up and headed to the Co's office which took a few minutes.
Richard walked in and saw Lieutenant McGrady and Commodore Hunter with a serious look of regret and frustration on both their faces. "Sir, Commander Wallace reports as ordered."
What the heck is going on?
"Commander since I am your commanding officer I take no pleasure in this.
Lieutenant McGrady's report to JAG Corps stated that during the actions against the Pirates you violated 4 rules of engagement. Also it is standard practice that you be investigated for the loss of the USS Benjamin Franklin." Commodore Hunter stood up and walked a PADD over to Wallace.
"This is Not Lieutenant McGrady's doing she had no idea that her report would have this consequence. " Hunter then read the charges aloud.
"Commander Wallace Richard, Chief of Security Serenity Colony& New Canada System. You are hereby charge with firing with out properly Identifying your ship or intentions, Failure to exercise your rights to find a peaceful opportunity other then armed conflict. Unlawful use of deadly force. Destruction of the USS Benjamin Franklin.
You are hereby notified that an Article 32 hearing in which formal evidence will be presented will take place on September 8th 2386 Serenity Colony. As according to custom you will be able to present evidence on your behalf. " Hunter handed the PADD over to Wallace for him to read.
What did I do wrong? I was not in any wrong! Richard had a very unhappy expression on his face.
"Who will be defending me sir?" Richard asked knowing he had nobody in mind.
"Lieutenant McGrady will assist in your defense since she feels responsible. I am requesting that a civilian Attorney handle your defense. One that has just arrived at my request several days ago.
He has 48 years experience in defending clients and lost 2 cases in that time. I feel as does Admiral Pike you deserve the best defense possible we the Federation owe it to you."
Richard knew who it was and grind his teeth, and gave a rather huge sigh. "My father."
"Yes. I know you two have differences but he is the best. You will work with him and put aside your feelings for now that is an order." Hunter said turning around and taking a seat at his desk . He then dismissed Wallace and McGrady.
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