[Randallw]

“The Ocampa are a free people and we will remain so. We have been independent for 1000 generations and we shall continue to defend our freedom from any so called empire that claims dominion over us”. said the head of the Ocampan council.
Kelim paused for a moment after this outburst by the councillor. The Dominion had arrived a week before and the week so far had involved endless debate by the Ocampans. Honestly, the Talaxians had been less trouble, and they had been powerless since the Haakonians had set them free. This councillor, from all that Kelim knew, was a mere 5 years old, there had been Jem’Hadar serving under Kelim that were older. The Vorta chose his words wisely, and put on his most genial smile.
“Now, now, there is no need to resort to diatribe; the Dominion has no intention of infringing in any way the freedom of the Ocampan people. We merely wish to establish peaceful relations. In fact we are anxious to discuss the possibility of cooperation between our peoples”
“Slavery, you mean” replied the councillor angrily.
“I can’t imagine where you could have gathered such outrageous ideas. No, we merely wish to continue our exploration of the surrounding space. Towards that end we wish to establish minor facilities to help our vessels in this area” explained the Vorta supervisor “We have no intention of forcing anything on your people. We offer many benefits should you agree to our proposal, entirely your own decision of course, indeed we are prepared to assist in the defence of your planet. This will of course require additional facilities and equipment, but I can see you are prepared to take any course of action to defend yourselves.”
“An occupation?” questioned the Ocampa.
“Occupation? why of course not, it would be a joint effort by both sides”.
“With you making all the decisions I assume” replied the Ocampan councillor sarcastically
“We are prepared to admit Ocampa is best suited to be organised by those who have lived here so long, albeit in such cramped circumstances” Kelim said indicating the underground city outside the room’s window. The surface was uninhabitable by the Ocampa, the result of some ancient disaster the Ocampa were not prepared to discuss. ”But enough diplomacy, I am sure you are hungry after our long deliberations. I took the opportunity of having refreshments prepared” he said signalling to the armed Jem’Hadar guards flanking the doorway. They opened the door and more Jem’Hadar, still armed, wheeled in a cart of various foods the likes of which the Ocampa, forced by circumstances to survive on hydroponically grown food, were not familiar with.
“I suggest the Talaxian soup. It’s a bit spicy, but we recently gained the recipe. I’m sure you’ll like it”
The Ocampan councillor hesitantly chose some of the food on offer and began to dine.
“By the way congratulations on your daughter winning her school prize. What is she 5 months old? About the time they start to be more trouble than you are prepared for” remarked Kelim. The councillor began to choke on his food.
“Oh dear, I do hope the food is not too rich” inquired Kelim
“What do you know about my daughter?” inquired the Ocampan, a look of shock crossing his face.
“Oh word gets around. She sounds quite intelligent. Surely she will go on to follow her father serving her people well. The rest of your family must be quite proud”
“My family!” asked the Ocampan, shock showing even more on his face.
“Oh yes, they are settling in well in your new house, in what, the Orius district isn’t it?. I must say you have a nice dwelling. I took the liberty of viewing it though one of our ships tactical sensors when I arrived. Not that I am able to appreciate it enough I am sure. My talents lean more towards more intellectual pursuits, Organising weapons tests, commanding the troops under me” explained Kelim
“What are you saying?” the Ocampan asked hesitantly.
“Me, nothing, I am merely congratulating you on the condition of your family. It would be dreadful if something bad happened. Still I am sure there is nothing to worry about. Once you have finished your meal I am sure we can finish our discussion.”
Yes, Kelim did not see much more difficulty in the negotiations. Soon the Dominion would manage to establish their new bases and then they could expand further.