The first attempt...

[Guest Robert Long]

Just off-duty, Robert Long walks into his quarters, goes over and sits at his computer console, and accesses the communications. "Computer, recognize Ensign Long, Robert Security Chief, USS Challenger for secure communication to Fleet Captain Rebecca Long Commanding USS Harrison, location Neutral Zone." "Input authorization code." Robert enters his code and waits for the connection to establish and his mother to appear on the screen.

 

Rebecca appears on the screen buttoning the flap on her uniform. "Fleet Captain Long." "Mom, it's me..." "Yes Robert, what do you need?" "I'm sorry to disturb you...but I need a favor." Looking more concerned Rebecca leans forward, "What's wrong son?" "Is this a secure channel on your end?" Rebecca reaches off to the side and taps a couple buttons. "It is now." "There's a new ensign who just arrived onboard recently who told me something...disturbing. Do you still have any favors you can pull back at Star Fleet Command, namely the security and...intel departments?" "I think so, but you are the one with the reliable contacts there...what is it for?" "He told me that his father died in what officials ruled an accident at the Martian spacedocks." "Those happen all the time son." "Yes, they do, but not to someone who knew his way around ships...and someone who was Intel that dealt with the Romulans." Rebecca raises her eyebrows. "I see your point. I'll ask around, discreetly, and let you know if I turn anything up." "Thank you. The information he gave me was: that his father's full name was Marcus Julian Randall, Starfleet Intelligence Corps ZX-4493." "Is there anything else?" "No, thanks mom." "Your welcome son, love you." "I love you too. Long out." Robert closes the channel and sits back trying to decide how best now to ask his father for help...