title: Destruction of the Talismen
author: Kathleen Zucati
description: Kathleen Krauss Zucati was born and still lives in the Pacific Northwest. Her son, Hal, is co-author of this book. She and her first husband are all-molded fiberglass trailer enthusiasts.
zlib_text: Star Trek - Voy - 019 - Cloak And Dagger
  
  by Christie Golden
  
  PROLOGUE
  
  TRAMP. TRAMP. TRAMP. TRAMP.
  
  The echoing sound of booted feet striding in unison on the smooth stone floor
  of the Senate chamber was a familiar one to Jekri Kaleh. She could not count
  the number of times she had entered this room to stand before the gathered
  Senate, and occasionally, as was the case today, even in the presence of the
  Empress herself. Sometimes Jekri had entered in triumph, more rarely in shame.
  
  But always, the Romulan head of the Tal Shiar came with her head held high and
  her bright silver eyes gleaming.
  
  Today, her heart pounded with excitement in her abdomen, though her face was
  nearly Vulcan-like in its lack of expression. It was not becoming for the head
  of the Tal Shiar to gloat.
  
  Tramp. Tramp. Tramp-tramp. Tramp.
  
  Inwardly, Jekri frowned. Their honored guest, the reason for the assembly, was
  out of step. Such things bothered her, but there was no help for it. And
  besides, if what her guts we