I want to thank Robert Bruce Scott for proofreading this chapter.
Stardate 38680.90 (September 6, 2361)
U.S.S. Edison - Docking Port 2 Airlock (Deck 9)
Captain Grace McCallister stood in the Edison’s docking port, her posture straight and her gaze unwavering. The ship was abuzz with activity, a sense of readiness hanging in the air alongside the arrival of new crewmembers. Among them was someone who held a special place in her heart—her daughter, Ensign Claire McCallister.
Grace’s mind drifted back to her own early days aboard starships, the thrill of exploration fueling her passion for engineering before she took the helm. She had worked tirelessly to reach her position, and now, as she prepared to welcome her daughter on board, a mix of pride and protectiveness filled her.
Commander Wes Hamill, the Senior Intelligence Officer, leaned against the bulkhead, a smirk playing on his lips. "Never thought I'd see the day you were the welcoming committee," he quipped, his grin softening the sharp lines of his uniform. Wes's witty humor was known throughout the ship, as were his occasional lapses in discipline that often landed him in hot water with superior officers.
Despite his penchant for bending regulations, Wes possessed a remarkable talent for deciphering complex intel codes. This ability had earned him a valued spot on the Edison, though his less-than-exemplary interactions with higher-ups often hindered his advancement prospects. He was temporarily fulfilling Commander Icid Ghaila’s duties, who was occupied with a personal matter elsewhere on the ship.
Grace allowed a fleeting smile to touch her lips, a brief crack in her otherwise composed demeanor. “It’s not every day we receive a visit from Rear Admiral Nechayev,” she replied, her voice cool and precise. Memories of shared laughter and late-night study sessions at the Academy flitted through her mind, a reminder of the bond they shared. “And Claire will be joining us shortly—she’s in good company with Alynna.”
Wes’s playful expression faded, replaced by a thoughtful frown. “The Admiral’s visit… definitely raises some eyebrows,” he murmured, his brow furrowing slightly.
Grace nodded, her demeanor shifting to seriousness. “Exactly. We need to coordinate with Alynna regarding the situation near the Delphi System. Tai-Anna has flagged some unsettling data from the starbase’s probes; the strange signals coming from there are worrisome.”
The airlock opened signaling the arrival of their guests. Rear Admiral Alynna Nechayev strode through, her posture exuding confidence and authority, followed closely by Commander Kathryn Janeway and Commander Andrea Dhener.
In their wake, Claire trailed hesitantly, a flutter of excitement mixed with a touch of nervousness in her heart. She glanced around, taking in the busy environment of the ship—the gentle hum of machinery and the murmur of crew members creating a sense of purposeful activity.
Claire had always been drawn to the science behind starships—the physics of warp drives, the chemistry of alien atmospheres, and the biology of extraterrestrial life. She found herself constantly absorbing knowledge, her mind eager to understand how these complex systems worked. Her desire to one day command her own vessel, like her mother, grew with each new concept she grasped.
“Permission to come aboard, Captain,” Alynna requested, her gaze unwavering as she met Grace’s. Their embrace was a silent language, a quick, warm connection forged in years of friendship.
“Granted. Welcome aboard, Admiral,” Grace replied, her tone warm, reflecting the genuine affection she held for her friend.
“Thank you, Captain. It’s good to see you,” Alynna responded, her usual confident air softening just a touch. “I checked in on Claire at the starbase, even had lunch with her. She’s as sharp as ever.”
Grace’s heart swelled at the mention of her daughter. “That’s reassuring to hear.”
Alynna’s sharp eyes landed on Wes, a subtle arch of her brow questioning his casual stance. “Well, Commander Hamill,” she remarked, crossing her arms with a slight smirk, “I believe a little more decorum is in order.”
Caught off guard, Wes quickly straightened, a sheepish grin breaking across his face. “Just keeping things relaxed, Admiral.” He knew he had to tread carefully; his history of impulsive remarks had often landed him in hot water.
Alynna’s tone hardened, her words carrying the weight of her rank. “Commander, while I appreciate your relaxed attitude, maintaining professionalism is crucial, especially when senior officers are present.” Her voice was firm, yet there was a glimmer of understanding in her eyes, as if she recognized the balance between camaraderie and command.
Grace’s gaze mirrored Alynna’s disapproval, and Wes’s smile evaporated. “Understood, Admiral.” He stood at attention, his earlier levity replaced by a rigid formality.
Alynna moved aside, her arm instinctively finding its way around Claire’s shoulders, a silent promise of support for her goddaughter. "Captain McCallister, Commander Hamill," Alynna said, gesturing towards two women standing beside her. "Allow me to introduce Commander Kathryn Janeway, the new Chief Operations Officer, Commander Andrea Dehner, the new ship's counselor, and Ensign Claire McCallister."
"Captain!" Claire called out, interrupting Alynna mid-sentence, her voice a blend of delight and nervousness, as she stood slightly apart, her hands clasped nervously.
Grace, expertly balancing her role as a mother and a commanding officer, replied, "Welcome aboard, Ensign. Let’s not interrupt the introductions," her voice taking on a sharper edge, the initial smile now a thin line. "Perhaps you could save your greetings for later, when we’re not in the middle of formal introductions."
Claire's nod was quick, her cheeks flushing even more intensely as she hastily took a step back, a visible slump in her shoulders betraying her discomfort.
Alynna, undeterred, then turned to Janeway and Dehner and said, "Commander Janeway, Commander Dehner, I'd like you to meet Captain Grace McCallister and Commander Wes Hamill."
Grace extended her hand to Janeway. “Commander, it’s a pleasure to welcome you as the new Chief of Operations. Your reputation precedes you." a warm smile reforming on her lips.
Kathryn accepted the handshake with a firm, if slightly cool, smile. "Thank you, Captain. I’m ready to contribute to the Edison’s mission and, hopefully, demonstrate my capabilities." Her voice was steady and carried a subtle undercurrent of command.
“And Commander Dehner,” Grace continued, now addressing the ship’s counselor. “It’s an honor to have you on board. The welfare of our crew is of the utmost importance.”
Commander Dehner’s calm demeanor exuded reassurance. “I appreciate that, Captain. I’m here to support both the mission and the crew,” she said, her soft yet firm voice carrying a diplomatic undertone, one that promised a safe space for every crew member aboard.
There was a subtle strength in her presence, reminiscent of her distant relative, Elizabeth Dehner, who had once faced the unknown with remarkable courage at the cost of her life. Andrea often felt the weight of that legacy, but she was determined to carve her own path.
Alynna’s eyes held a hint of unspoken news as she addressed Grace. “Simone Archer will be joining the crew as part of the mission, acting as a liaison with the Federation Council. President Voser requested her presence to assist with public relations.”
Surprise flitted across Grace’s face, but she quickly masked it with a composed expression. “An interesting addition, indeed. We shall ensure she is fully prepared for her role.”
Alynna nodded, her tone sincere and supportive. “I have the utmost confidence in your leadership.”
Wes, ever the curious officer, asked, “Admiral, will you be remaining with us on the ship for the duration of the mission?”
“Indeed, Commander, I will be staying aboard,” Alynna confirmed. “This assignment is of critical importance, and I intend to see it through to its successful conclusion.” Her voice was resolute, underscoring her commitment to the mission.
Grace nodded, her own resolve strengthening. “Thank you, Alynna. Let us get everyone settled and briefed. We have a great deal to accomplish.”
As they moved deeper into the ship, Janeway turned to Claire, her expression softening. “You know, Ensign, I’ve heard great things about you. If you ever need anything or want to discuss your experiences, my door is always open.” There was warmth in Janeway's gaze that made Claire's heart flutter unexpectedly.
Claire’s eyes brightened at the offer, and she nodded eagerly. “Thank you, Commander. I’d love that.” The warmth of Janeway’s words eased some of Claire’s nerves, and she felt a flicker of excitement at the prospect of working alongside such esteemed officers.
Claire and Janeway exchanged a few more glances, the beginning of a quiet camaraderie forming beneath the professional surface of the Edison.
As they walked, Andrea fell into step beside Claire, her demeanor calm and inviting. “You know, Claire,” she began, her voice gentle yet firm, “I’ve heard about your family’s legacy in Starfleet. It’s impressive to see you following in those footsteps. If you ever want to talk about your experiences or share your thoughts on the mission, I’m here for you.”
Claire smiled, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. “Thank you, Commander Dehner. That means a lot.”
END
