The judge looked over at the Tribunal, "In the case number 66344.05, The United Federation of Planets and Star Fleet vs. Commodore Wayne Laurence, how do you find?"
Nicole and Vincent stood up as a hush fell across the universe. ONN, FBN and other networks were broadcasting in subspace throughout the Federation Space.
Nicole looked at Vincent, "We, under the authority of Brigadier General William Russo find Commodore Wayne Laurence..."
"Not Guilty.", Nicole tried to speak clearly.
The verdict was critical. Commodore Laurence had attacked the Phoenix Colony. The morality of finding him not guilty showed the greatness of the tribunal.
The judge tried to calm the court room, "Please explain."
"We find the Commodore was following orders that were incomplete to make a rational decision on the actions of Admiral William Hunt, Vice Admiral Nicole Branson, Commodore Vincent Viceroy and the citizens of the Phoenix Colony. Commodore Laurence had no way of knowing that the colony was not harbouring a vial defector in Admiral William Hunt. Commodore Laurence acted to the best of his abilities and with the best understanding of the situation.", Nicole continued.
The courtroom was in shock.
Vincent interrupted, "It is the belief of the Tribunal that Commodore Laurence suffered the greatest punishment of all when his task force faced the wrath of the City Station Sparta suffering huge loses. "
The words were designed to limit any further punishment.
The Judge looked at both members and then at Brigadier General Russo.
"Notwithstanding the decision of Tribunal, Commodore Wayne Laurence is hereby stripped of the rank of Commodore and returned to the rank of Captain and is ordered to return to Star Base 185 to command the regional Star Ships under this sanctioned rank.", the Judge spoke.
Nicole and Vincent were discussing the nightmares when they walked out of the courtroom. Nicole was shocked to see Admiral Coren and Captain Addison Laree standing there with Dr. Orchid Coren.
Christine T'Nley came rushing over, "So Vice Admiral, what about the news that you have been seen with Captain Lionel Laurence, son of now Captain Wayne Laurence and Captain of the USS Wainwright. I thought you were gay? Oh wait, I know that you will do anything for power. What does the Laurence family have that you want?"
Nicole looked at Christine, "Geez, Christine."
Christine smiled, "Did you F**K him?"
"Must have been very good to get the pumped up lesbian to change her verdict.", Christine spoke very loudly so Orchid and Addison could here.
Vincent stepped between them.
"Oh wait, here he is, the Commodore. Any more trouble sleeping, Commodore?", Christine asked.
"What the hell?", Vincent snapped.
"Starving to death is no great way to die.", Christine muttered.
Orchid walked over, "You are sleeping with Captain Lionel Laurence?"
"This oughta be good.", Christine smiled shoving a mic towards the famous couple.
"God no.", Nicole retorted.
Orchid walked over and took Addison by the hand and they left. Nicole was deeply hurt.
Lionel walked out, "It was a good thing that you did for my dad."
"Do you wanna grab lunch?", he asked.
"I can't. Lionel. I am gay.", Nicole snapped.
"You still have to eat.", Lionel laughed.
The pair left together. The girls were with male partners but could think only of each other.
Orchid even looked over at Nicole as they ate lunch. She just wanted the feelings to go away but even after two years apart, she was worn down by the feelings.
She just could not stop thinking about Nicole.
Posted by:
Vice Admiral Nicole Branson
Military Tribunal Co-Chair
Phoenix Colony
Phoenix Fleet
Commodore Vincent Viceroy
Military Tribunal Co-Chair
Phoenix Colony
Phoenix Fleet
Christine T'Nley
Omega News Network
Phoenix Colony
Phoenix Fleet
