Stepping through the airlock, Fleet Captain McCallister led his senior staff through the threshold on what was old but familiar grounds for him and so many of them. Returning to Deep Space 19 had been like a homecoming for the Odyssey. Only a few years ago, the Odyssey was based out of this station, supporting efforts with the Romulans while trying to undertake explorative work in the far reaches of the Beta Quadrant. 

McCallister immediately noticed several modifications to the station. However, what caught him off guard was Commander Layla Fitzgerald’s presence. As always, the chief science officer of Deep Space 19 greeted them with a broad smile and open arms. He had expected to see someone more senior than her, but he was more than happy to see her.

“Welcome back!” she called out, her arms wide in a warm embrace.

“Layla, it’s so good to see you,” McCallister replied, returning the hug.

Their history ran deep, dating back to their days on the Trinity. McCallister, once the ship’s chief operations officer and later its field-promoted captain, and Fitzgerald, the science officer, had weathered many adventures together. 

“You’re looking well,” she said, smiling before teasing him about some grey hairs coming through.

“Well, fatherhood and being a captain for so long does it to you,” McCallister chuckled. “How’s Sturok?”

“He’s doing well,” Fitzgerald replied, her smile softening at the mention of her husband. “He regrets he couldn’t be here to welcome you. He’s busy with the admiral, preparing for the briefing.”

Sturok had also served on the Trinity; as such, McCallister nodded, recalling his role in encouraging Sturok to ask Fitzgerald out years ago. “I suppose the admiral’s summons has something to do with these underspace corridors?” he inquired.

Fitzgerald nodded. “Indeed, the admiral is hosting an important briefing for us all, but Admiral Jaret wishes to see you in her office first, J-P.”

Surprised to hear that, McCallister nodded. “Now?” He checked.

“Now,” Fitzgerald confirmed. “I’ll take your staff to the wardroom.” 

Fitzgerald gestured for them all to follow her down one corridor. Hanging back, Duncan and Reyas approached McCallister. 

“You okay, James?” Reyas asked about her concern for her husband, which was evident in her tone. 

“My gut is telling me something big is coming,” McCallister replied. “Why would the admiral want to see me separately?”

“It’s probably nothing,” Duncan stated with a shrug. “Maybe she’s giving you a preview of the briefing?”

“Well, whatever happens, we’ll face it together,” Reyas assured her husband.

Appreciating their thoughts, McCallister agreed with them and made his way towards the nearest turbolift, letting them catch up with the rest of the group. 

“Come in,” Jaret replied after hearing the chime go off. 

Standing and reading a PADD in her hands, Vice Admiral Jaret had kept her focus on its contents as the doors to her office opened. Hearing footsteps behind her, she spun on her heels and smiled immediately at her guest.

“James,” She greeted.

“Admiral, it’s good to see you,” McCallister said as he walked across the room to close the gap between them.

She extended her arms towards McCallister, just like Fitzgerald had done earlier, and hugged him. “You’re looking well,” Jaret told him as she motioned him to sit on the long, curved navy blue sofa underneath the large viewport. “You still a tea drinker?”

“Aye, ma’am,” McCallister answered as he sat down.

Jaret replicated two mugs of tea before returning to where her guest was and handing him on. “Here you go,” She said before sitting down too. 

“Thank you,” He replied politely. 

Leaning onto the sofa, the admiral took a sip of her tea and rested the mug on her lap with one hand clasping it. “I read your last mission report; it sounded like you and the Bexa were lucky to find that underspace aperture back to the Typhon Expanse.”

McCallister nodded. “We had spent almost three weeks hiding in a class nine nebula making repairs to both ships. We weren’t expecting to find that aperture to take us back so close to the Lioh system.”

“Your report stated it closed behind you after you arrived on the other side?” Jaret checked.

“Yeah, Corella believes the high level of tachyons around the exit aperture forced it to collapse on itself naturally. We left behind a probe for the folks at Deep Space Seventeen to study it; the last we heard, they said they believed the aperture was regenerating.” McCallister said. He looked at the admiral. “Permission to speak freely, ma’am?”

“Of course,” Jaret encouraged. She knew what he was going to ask him, so she let him speak his mind before she shared the next bit.

“Commodore Py’Tellan wasn’t forthcoming with why both ships were sent to Deep Space Nineteen? All she shared was orders from the top brass at Fourth Fleet Operations wanted us here,” He stated. “I’m assuming it’s got something to do with the underspace development?”

“I take it you’ve not been read in on our little tunnel through the stars?” She asked, using her thumb to point towards the windows behind her. 

Shaking his head, McCallister denied all knowledge.  He didn’t know that an aperture had been found at Kovar. “No, but we detected the warning buoy as we approached the station. I also noticed the station has moved, and many orbital defence platforms are in the system.”

“I’m glad you’ve not lost your observational skills, James,” Jaret said almost jokingly. “I’ll brief you and the others in more detail soon, but I can confirm we’ve got an underspace corridor aperture here in the Kovar system that leads to the Delta Quadrant.”

Instantly, she saw the pieces fall into place across McCallister’s expression. “Let me guess. You want us to investigate what’s on the other side.”

With her eyes widening alongside her big grin, Jaret nodded. “You got it in one, James!” 

McCallister sighed slightly as he rested his mug on the glass coffee table before them. “Though my crew will be eager to get back to exploring the Delta Quadrant, we’ve still got some hull damage after our incident with the Entharans.”

Jaret knew what McCallister was saying. “We’ll get the Odyssey fully repaired while you’re here, but James, it’s okay.” She assured him with a soft smile. “I read the reports about what this Korvain guy was like. He sounds like a ruthless son of a bitch.”

“Ruthless doesn’t give him enough credit, admiral,” McCallister stated. “After we went into hiding, we discovered he has many ties with other worlds in the Swallow Nebula region. Anytime we tried to seek help from someone, somehow, one of his scouts would be nearby. It’s no fun playing cat and mouse with an Odyssey-class ship and a Ross-class ship.”

“Then it’s good you’re safe here and that he hasn’t found out about the Kovar aperture,” Jaret replied.

The sudden realisation then hit McCallister like a Borg Probe at transwarp. “Are you telling me that aperture links us to the—”

“The Swallow Nebula region?” Jaret asked before nodding. “It does. One of our long-range probes confirmed it a couple of weeks ago, along with sensor logs we obtained from some Caatati refugees.”

McCallister appeared to deflate at hearing that. He didn’t get a chance to say anything else before Jaret carried on talking.

“And we’re not sending just you and the Themis back,” She said, sounding commanding. “You’ll go in with a few others.”

“Ma’am, we’ve still not heard from the Constitution. Isn’t Starfleet spread too thin to mount such an operation?” McCallister quizzed.

Shaking her head, Jaret’s smile remained. “I’ve got some good news for you,” she paused as she looked out her window. “It should be arriving anytime soon.” Jaret tapped her combadge and asked ops if their next guests had arrived. An affirmative response came back, and Jaret looked out of the large bay window. 

Her words made no sense until McCallister also looked out of the window. Dropping out of warp and in close formation were three vessels. All of them were approaching the station at high impulse. Instantly, the colour in McCallister’s face went completely white. 

“Is that…” He stuttered before composing himself. “Is that the Constitution?”

Jaret nodded, still smiling. “Along with the Bellerophon and the—”

“The Triton,” McCallister interrupted. His smile got wider. He turned to Jaret. “How? What? When? How?”

Chuckling, Jaret was pleased to see their arrival had improved his mood. “Repairs to both the Bellerophon and Triton were completed a month or so ago. They’ve been undertaking some shakedown cruises, but their crews have been reassigned elsewhere. And the Constitution, well, I’ll let your brother explain how he got back to us via the Barzan Wormhole a few weeks ago.”

“So are you sending all five of us through the aperture then?” McCallister asked.

“Not five,” Jaret corrected him. “Seven.”

“Seven?”

“Seven,” Jaret said with a nod. “The Destiny and the Orion are joining you too.”

A wider shocked expression now appeared across McCallister’s face. “That’s one hell of an exploration squadron!”

“And you’ll remain in command of them all, James,” Jaret stated. “With one little change.”

From being surprised and startled, McCallister now appeared confused and worried. “I knew something was going to happen.”

“It’s all good,” Jaret said as she stood up and walked over to the door that linked her office to the small meeting room on the other side. Jaret noticed that McCallister hadn’t followed her and gestured for him to follow her. 

Seconds later, he jumped off the sofa and was beside her. She opened the door and soon took him into the room. 

Sitting at the head of the table with a mug of tea in one hand and a collection of PADDs around him was Fleet Admiral Luke Duncan. Immediately after hearing the door open, the senior flag officer smirked and looked up from his work. “James, it’s been too long.”

“Fleet Admiral Duncan,” McCallister said, grinning. “It’s good to see you, sir.”

They closed the distance between each other to shake their hands. Duncan was the reason why McCallister was a captain and how he got the Odyssey. He wasn’t expecting to see the Director of Fourth Fleet Operations be here.

“Max will be happy to hear you’re here,” McCallister expressed. 

“Please don’t tell him yet,” Duncan said. “I want to surprise him and my grandsons.”

“My lips are sealed, sir,” McCallister promised.

Another person stepped forward from the other side of the room. McCallister immediately recognised him. “Commander Sturok!” 

The tall Vulcan officer bowed his head after placing his hands behind his back. “It is agreeable to see you, Fleet Captain McCallister,” Sturok said formally. 

Jaret then caught McCallister had considered something, and before asking him what was wrong, he spoke up.

“Now what Layla said makes sense,” He stated.

“What did she say?” Jaret probed. 

“Well, she indicated that Sturok was busy with the admiral getting ready for the briefing, but she didn’t state which admiral,” McCallister said, still smiling. 

“That’s my doing,” Duncan said as he leaned against the long wooden polished table. “What we’re going to talk about is critical to the defence of not just the Federation in this region but also our interests in the Delta Quadrant.”

“That sounds concerning,” McCallister remarked, crossing his arms.

“Hopefully, we can avoid any issues,” Jaret assured him.

Duncan turned to Sturok. “Commander, can you go ahead of us and ensure everyone is ready for us.”

“Of course, sir,” Sturok replied with another slight bow of his head before he swiftly left the room.

“James, I’m afraid I can’t remain on Deep Space Nineteen as long as I’d like to,” Duncan stated. “Once we’ve briefed your squadron, I’m heading to the Devron Fleet Yards to see what other assets we can move out to help with this new situation we find ourselves in.”

“I understand, sir,” McCallister said. 

Duncan turned around and picked up a wooden box on the table. “James, as you know, with our losses from Frontier Day, Starfleet is still recovering, and we need good leaders now more than ever.” He turned back, handed the box to McCallister and gestured for him to open it. “As a result of the current situation and with the Odyssey Squadron being expanded, I hereby promote you to the field commission of Commodore.”

Jaret was so pleased for McCallister that she gave him a small clap as she congratulated him. He was in pure shock as he looked at his commodore pips.

“I don’t know what to say,” McCallister uttered. 

“Thank you?” Jaret suggested.

“Of course,” McCallister said, trying to excuse his initial response. “It’s just not expected, especially with me only being made a fleet captain earlier this year.”

“Well, it’s not the norm; you’re right there, James,” Duncan confirmed. “But as I said, with so many experienced officers being killed by the Borg and now with underspace corridors opening up across the entire galaxy, Starfleet needs to respond and that needs well-tested field officers doing their bit.”

“You can use my office in a minute to replicate a new uniform, but you need to know that your promotion does come with one change,” Jaret said, changing her tone slightly.

“I don’t like the sound of that,” McCallister replied.

The two admirals looked at one another before looking back at McCallister. 

“You’re going to be at the forefront of our operations in the Swallow Nebula region, and you’ll be in charge of seven ships, which includes over five thousand officers; you will have a lot on your plate to deal with,” Jaret said. 

“We need your focus to be on the mission and the entire squadron, James,” Duncan added. “Do you understand?” 

McCallister nodded. “Sure.”

“That means that the Odyssey will be your flagship, but you won’t be in actual command of her,” Jaret remarked. The moment she said that she saw McCallister’s face drop again.

“Then who will command the Odyssey?” McCallister quizzed.

“Max!” a familiar voice called out.

After leading the rest of the Odyssey’s senior staff into the enormous room that was Deep Space 19’s primary wardroom, Captain Max Duncan wasn’t expecting to hear anyone call after him. The room was busy with not only the Odyssey’s senior staff and the station’s senior staff (whom he knew) but also others he didn’t initially recognise. 

The voice that had called him was his long-time friend and Odyssey’s former chief engineer, Tremt Hunsen. 

“Tremt, I wasn’t expecting to see you here,” Duncan said as he made his way over. His husband, Court, had stayed by his side as the others all moved towards one of the tables on the other side of the room that Fitzgerald had motioned for them to go towards. It was filled with pastries and other refreshments. 

Captain Cambil stood with Hunsen. The Bajoran woman held a mug of raktajino tightly. “I don’t think any of us was expecting this,” Cambil said, motioning to the large crowd of officers. She then noticed the door through which the Odyssey lot had come through was closed, and they were missing someone. “Where’s James?”

“He was told to see the admiral,” Court answered.

Duncan saw both Cambil and Hunsen look surprised to hear that. “Do you know why?” he asked.

“No,” Cambil said, shaking her head. “However, do you know who that is?” She said, pointing towards the other side of the room with her index finger, which was initially wrapped around her coffee mug. 

Duncan and Court looked over their shoulders to where Cambil was aiming. Standing almost in the opposite corner was a tall man wearing a red command uniform who initially had his back to them. He was talking to a woman wearing a similar uniform. She was an Efrosian who had long, curly white hair.  The man then turned around. 

“Captain Zack Marshall-Bennet,” Duncan commented. 

Captain Zack Marshall-Bennet was a commanding presence in Deep Space 19’s wardroom. His short sandy-brown hair, sharp blue eyes, and well-kept beard gave him a refined yet rugged look. His Starfleet uniform, with a bold red command stripe, accentuated his athletic build.

“I heard after Starfleet Intelligence found him that he turned down a promotion to the admiralty,” Cambil said in hushed tones. 

“Really? Why?” Court asked in a similar quieter manner.

“He never wanted to become an admiral,” Cambil replied. “He was given back command of his old ship, the Destiny.”

“Whose that with him?” Duncan asked, without gesturing to the Efrosian woman who chuckled at something Bennet had said. 

“Captain Mo’Lee-Krabreii,” Cambil said through almost gritted teeth.

“You know her?” Hunsen inquired.

“You could say that,” Cambil said with a sigh.”

Turning back to her, Duncan was intrigued. “Don’t leave us there, Bexa. Do you two go back?”

“We do,” She said. “We served on the Crazy Horse together back in the late seventies. She was a pilot; I was in security and tactical.”

“And you weren’t the best of friends?” Hunsen guessed.

“That’s putting it mildly,” Cambil remarked. “She could give the Borg Queen a chill with her sharp wit.”

Duncan, Court and Hunsen turned their attention back to Krabreii. She appeared to be an extremely confident woman. Her skin had a pale, almost light tan hue common to her species, contrasted by her deep-set, expressive eyes that carried a sense of wisdom and intensity. Her hair was a cascading mane of snowy white, worn long and flowing freely, which added to the regal and authoritative presence that she projected.

“She can’t be that bad,” Duncan stated, looking back at Cambil. “Can she?”

“She’s a veteran pilot with so much confidence,” Cambil answered. “She rose through the ranks quickly after the Dominion War, like so many of us. She’s fiercely independent.”

“How come she’s still a captain then?” Court questioned.

“She’s made a few remarks that have upset the brass,” Cambil said. “Last I heard she has pissed off Admirals Dahlgreen, Beckett and Dowd.”

“That doesn’t seem like many,” Hunsen stated.

“Oh, that’s only the recent count,” Cambil said. “Before the attack on Mars, she once told Admiral Picard that Earl Grey tea tasted like Klingon bath water, and about ten years ago, she broke Admiral Janeway’s favourite coffee mug.”

“Damn, how comes she’s like that?” Duncan wondered aloud. “Surely she’s been put in her place?”

“Oh, she has,” Cambil confirmed. “But she’s never done anything to really get her booted out of the service. She’s too good. I’ve heard that Fleet Admiral Ramar had to step in to keep her from walking away after the Klingons killed her husband during the Archanis Campaign.”

“Well, I suppose that’s one way of getting yourself noticed by the top brass,” Duncan remarked.

“Talking of the top brass,” Hunsen gestured with his head to the main doors to the wardroom opening.

At that moment, everyone stopped and turned around after hearing someone call out for everyone to come to attention at the arrival of the three figures who entered. “Admirals on deck!” 

Duncan felt his stomach jump up as he saw his father standing at one end of the group. He hadn’t seen him for a little while, and a smile appeared across his face. Quickly, the fleet admiral caught his son’s attention, and he gave him a knowing wink. Duncan’s attention turned back to see Jaret leading the group, but it wasn’t her that his focus remained on. His commanding officer followed behind the two admirals, but James Preston McCallister was not in his usual uniform. 

Duncan turned to his husband, and straight away, he saw that Court had picked up on it, too, as much as Cambil and Hunsen had.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, I’d like to introduce you to the newest member of the admiralty,” Fleet Admiral Duncan said, addressing the entire room, “Commodore James Preston Harvey McCallister.”

“The Delta Quadrant, sector four-one-seven-five-one grid three,” Fleet Admiral Duncan’s voice boomed across the wardroom as he started his briefing. A massive holographic representation of the area he was talking about appeared in the centre of the room. Numerous planets, borders and locations were marked on it. The stardate of these scans indicated they were over twenty-seven years old. “If you don’t know, this is the furthest area away from the Swallow Nebula itself. Voyager passed through this area in early twenty-three-seventy-four, making contact with species like the Caatati, the Arritheans, the Vori, the Kradin, the Bo’mar, the Srivani, the Krenim, the Zahl, and the list goes on and on.”

Pausing, Duncan pressed a button on the podium he was standing behind, which zoomed in on one particular map section. It now showed the location of an underspace aperture. “Commander Fitzgerald has determined that the underspace corridor aperture that opened near Kovar takes a direct route to here two light years from a pair of binary pulsars.” Duncan pointed to the binary pulsars on the holographic map. “In two days, the Odyssey Squadron will depart from this station, enter the aperture, and make its way into this region of space. The primary goal is to re-explore this area of space and make peaceful contact with those who live nearby.”

“We know from what Voyager encountered that some of these species may be hostile,” Duncan stated, his voice carrying a note of caution. “However, knowing if any more underspace corridors intersect into this area and who has access to them is a priority too. We must be prepared for any eventuality.”

“Our Caatati guests have shared some updates on the geopolitical status quo in this area,” Vice Admiral Jaret said. She was sitting to Duncan’s right. Looking at the other senior staff members all assembled, Jaret carried on. “We can safely say that not much has changed in the past three decades. Some uneasy peace treaties have been signed between some of the main players. However, nothing else has changed except for a few more Borg incursions recorded in the area and the Hirogen establishing several training holographic bases.”

“Until we get our hands dirty,” uttered Captain Mo’Lee-Krabreii. At the far end of the table, the Efrosian woman was seated, her elbow resting on the surface and her chin propped up by the palm of her right hand. Her indifferent tone suggested that she had little interest in the briefing; however, what she was saying most people were thinking. 

“You think we’ll make things worse there, captain?” Jaret called out.

Krabreii sat up and carefully placed her hand on the table away from her chin. She gently shook her head before answering, “No, but we know these apertures are opening up across the galaxy. Is this an area we really want to squander our limited resources on? We must carefully consider our resource allocation to ensure the success of the defence of the Federation.”

“We can do that here and out there,” Fleet Admiral Duncan replied. “The work the D-E-I has undertaken to secure good relations with our galactic neighbours has been immeasurable.”

“In the Gradin Belt, yes,” Krabreii replied. “But the Swallow Nebula region, as you said, does contain hostile races.”

“Races we can’t afford to have as more enemies, captain,” McCallister now spoke up. The newly promoted commodore had been on the other side of the table, where Jaret was. He had sat up and leant forward to look at Krabreii. “We know there are other races in this region that can help us begin to make inroads to establishing peaceful contact with others. Races like the Kradin, the Arritheans and Mari all had a peaceful encounter with Voyager.” He then pointed across the table towards Cambil, “With the help of Captain Taes and the crew of the Constellation, Captain Cambil was able to open up a dialogue with a distant Krenim colony.”

“Hang on; you’re placing our hopes on a race that is at war with another race they share their homeworld with, a species that Voyager had a brief trade agreement with, another race who shared violent thoughts on the black market and race who can manipulate time and who recently proved that Starfleet is responsible for a good number of paradoxes?” Krabreii challenged. “I don’t mean to sound so pessimistic here, but so far, our experiences in this area aren’t great. Furthermore, Starfleet Intelligence’s analysis of the region even placed species like the Srivani as a high threat to our security. I’m not sure I’m not the only one in the room who would like to run the risk of following Admiral Janeway’s footsteps in having hot iron needles screwed into my skull anytime soon.”

“Your concerns are noted, captain, but we’re going, and if you can’t command the Orion, then I’ll find someone else to,” Fleet Admiral Duncan firmly said. It was enough to shut her up, and he continued with his briefing. “We have reason to believe that this corridor also connects to others here in the Alpha and Beta Quadrants, so we must be mindful of other races entering this region.”

“Are we sharing this mission with any of our allies?” Captain Bennet asked. The Destiny’s commander had been sat almost in the centre of the table, being flanked by his senior staff. 

Duncan shook his head. “No, with how things are between the Klingon Empire and the Romulan Republic, this will be a Starfleet solo mission.”

“That’s a shame,” Bennet remarked. “Will the entire squadron remain together, or will we split up?”

“Splitting up into groups of twos or threes,” Duncan answered. “Commodore McCallister will issue out orders. Deep Space Nineteen’s job will be to protect this aperture and work on ways for the squadron to maintain consistent contact with the station using the underspace corridor. Let’s get moving people. Dismissed. Thank you. But can Captains Duncan, Banfield and Reyas come with myself and Commodore McCallister.”

The room was then filled with chatter as everyone started to disperse into their groups. Those called got up and moved over to be with the admirals.

After moving into the anteroom of the wardroom, McCallister could see on his wife’s face, along with the other two, how pleased they were with his promotion to commodore. More he could see on Max’s face how excited he was to see his father. 

Clearing his throat, the fleet admiral spoke up. “I wish we had more time to celebrate James’ promotion, but this situation is happening so quickly that we don’t have time to put on a proper party.”

“Maybe once things have settled down?” Reyas requested.

“Perhaps,” Fleet Admiral Duncan stated, allowing the brief remark. “But I must also make a few more appointments before I leave the station tomorrow.”

Straight away, McCallister noticed Max’s excitement almost fade into the shadows after hearing that from his father. 

Fleet Admiral Duncan continued, “With James’ promotion, it does mean he will be required to oversee more of the squadron, and with this mission ahead of you, we want him to be the face of those bigger diplomatic overtures with races like the Zahl and Krenim. His focus can’t be split between all that and commanding the Odyssey, so we’ve decided that the Odyssey will remain his flagship, but it will have a brand new captain.”

Reyas, Banfield and Max all looked a bit surprised by that. McCallister assured them that he was okay with this decision. “I’m good, but I’m not that good.” He looked at Max. “You know what I’m going to say, don’t you?”

Max smirked at McCallister. “I think I do, though you should say it.”

“Captain Maxwell Duncan, congratulations, the Odyssey is yours,” McCallister said, grinning.

The others congratulated the younger Duncan before his father stepped forward and hugged him tightly.

“Well done, Max; it wouldn’t be the Odyssey without a Duncan in command,” Fleet Admiral Duncan said with enormous pride before looking at McCallister. “No offence, James.”

“None taken, admiral,” McCallister chuckled before looking at the other two. “And you know we wouldn’t have gotten this far these last few years without you both so close by my side.”

“Well, I can’t speak for Karyn, as she’s married to you and has no choice in the matter, but joining the Odyssey has been an honour of a lifetime, commodore,” Banfield smiled. 

“The Odyssey is our home and family,” Reyas added sincerely, taking her husband’s hand into hers. 

“Both of you have helped me keep the focus of science at the tip of our exploration efforts, and I’d always be grateful for that, but I need you both to take that further for me,” McCallister said as he squirmed.  

Reyas squeezed his hands. “James, whatever it is, you know I’d support you.”

“Likewise, sir,” Banfield added.

“Then will you both be willing to take command of your own ships?” McCallister asked.

Both women were surprised at that question. Reyas spoke first.

“James, I’m already in command of the Telemachus and the Academy unit,” She reminded him. “Am I being reassigned?”

Fleet Admiral Duncan interjected. “Karyn, you and Corella are fine officers with years of experience. Both of you make an excellent impact on the work that the Odyssey does. However, Starfleet needs officers like you to take a huge leap of faith and step up further.”

“Which ships?” Banfield asked.

“The Triton and Bellerophon,” McCallister answered, looking at his wife. He knew that making this choice would split up his family; however, the notion of the greater good was needed here. “You two are at the top of my list. I need people in command of these ships who I know will do their best.”

Both women didn’t say anything momentarily as they considered his request. 

“I don’t want the Triton,” Reyas stated; she started to smile. “Give me the Bellerophon.”

“Are you sure, Karyn?” Banfield checked. “You and James served on the Triton before the Odyssey. Don’t you have some deep connection with it?”

Reyas looked at her husband. “We did, but I’d feel like I would be following in his footsteps or Rio’s.” She shook her head. “I don’t want that.” 

Banfield then nodded. “Fine, I’ll take the Triton. Is that okay with the admiral?”

“It’s absolutely fine with me,” Fleet Admiral Duncan replied. He turned to Reyas and McCallister. “Perhaps we three can give you some time to discuss this privately?”

“Thank you, sir,” McCallister said.

Seconds later, after they had left, McCallister turned to his wife. “I’m sorry; I shouldn’t have dropped them on you like that.”

Reyas took a step forward and kissed him. She took her lips away from him. “Don’t ever do that again!” She told him with a slight slap to his shoulder. Looking deeply into his eyes, she placed her hands around his neck, and he wrapped his arms around her waist. “I’m proud of you for your promotion and grateful you want to give me a ship.”

“I know you’ve not been happy with how things have changed with the academy outreach programme, and I didn’t want to be the reason you were unable to advance in your career,” McCallister said honestly. “I’ve felt that I’ve been the one stopping you from moving on over the last few years. From you not being able to advance in the chain of command on the Odyssey because we were married and that with you being captured by the Changelings, you’ve not been given the chance.”

“It’s never been about that, James,” Reyas said. “I’ve loved my work over the years under your command.”

“Really?” 

“Honestly, yes, but if I take this command, what does it mean for us and our family?” Reyas asked.

“Nothing changes between us; we can make this work; we’ve been through a lot worse.” McCallister confidently said. “And with us only having Alfie left at home, our family remains where it is. If I didn’t offer you this, I was certain the admiral would have reassigned you elsewhere. At least this way, we can be closer together.”

Reyas appreciated knowing that. “I suppose we have no choice in this then.”

McCallister nodded and sighed. “And with me being released from the Odyssey, I could always transfer my flag to the Bellerophon if the mission required it.”

“Now that is true,” Reyas nodded. She kissed him again. “I was hoping we could see Theo and Henri while we were back.”

“Me too, but I’ve not heard of a corridor opening up between Cestus and here,” McCallister placed his forehead against hers. “Are we good?”

“We’re good,” She whispered.

They walked out of the anteroom and found the others standing there for them.

“Are we all good?” Max teased.

McCallister looked at his former first officer. “Maybe I should have made Tobias my successor.”

“Or Jordan and William?” Banfield offered.

“You wouldn’t!” Max threw back in mock offence.

They all chuckled at the light humour.

“Talking of my son-in-law and grandsons, Max, will you, Tobias and the boy be available to join your mother and me for dinner tonight before we leave?” 

“Absolutely, sir,” Duncan said with a smirk.

“Great, then I will leave you all to get on with organising your new assignments,” The Fleet Admiral turned around to leave them alone in the corridor.

The moment he was gone, Banfield spoke up. “I call dibs on having Lukiz with me!”

“Oh man!” Max cried as the group walked in the opposite direction.

McCallister chuckled. He knew where these new appointments would go and may regret not protesting enough when he got his new admiral bars.

“A promotion?” 

“Well, not quite,” Banfield responded, trying to soften the blow of the unexpected news she had just delivered. “The admiral called it more like an appointment; I already have the four pips, Carter. The unexpectedness of the news hung in the air, catching Westerham off guard.

“Yes, I know that, but moving to the Triton?” Westerham queried, his voice tinged with concern. “I thought we planned to always finish here on the Odyssey before retiring and returning to our place on Mellstoxx? Our original plans held such significance for us. We would teach briefly before just sitting at home and enjoying doing nothing!”

Banfield knew she had just shared a massive shift in their plans as she looked at her husband across the living room of their quarters. She had been waiting for him in their shared quarters for him to finish his shift in engineering. 

“Carter,” Banfield said, getting out of her chair and walking over to where he sat in the armchair opposite to her; she placed his hands in hers, “I’ve turned down numerous approaches from Starfleet to command a science ship; this could be my last one.”

“I know that, Corella,” he said, squeezing her hands lightly. “And I don’t want to be the barrier to your career, but I’ve only just got out of that hell hole the Changelings put me in and spending quality time with our family.”

“I need a new chief engineer,” Banfield said quickly.

“Come again?” Westerham said, surprised.

“A new chief engineer, it’s yours if you’ll take it,” Banfield said with a smile. “And I’ve already cleared it with the commodore; he is allowing it and permitting Athena and Brook to transfer to the Triton if they want to continue their studies there instead of here on the Odyssey.”

“And if they won’t?” Westerham asked.

“They’re adults, Carter; we must respect their decisions now,” Banfield said, standing up and placing her hands on her hips. “Logan can move with us to the Triton, and this new chapter in our lives will continue on a ship just as diverse as the Odyssey.”

Westerham leant further back into his chair as he considered this news. “Chief Engineer on a Luna-class ship, you say?”

Banfield nodded slowly with a smile. “One that has just had a massive refit.”

Rubbing his chin at first, Westerham eventually nodded. “Fine, I’ll do it.”

Excited with the news, Banfield pulled her husband up into a tight hug. “Thank you!” 

“Now, who will be your first officer?” Westerham asked after they finished hugging.

“Oh, I’ve got a good candidate in mind for that,” Banfield said with a grin.

“Me? First Officer? Are you sure?” Jen stuttered out at the surprised request that had come from Banfield only a few seconds ago.

Nodding from where she stood in the central computer operations room, Banfield crossed her arms against her chest. Jen had been making a few updates when Banfield strolled in, asked if he was alone, and then blurted out what had happened after the massive squadron meeting. After Jen had congratulated her on her new assignment, she had progressed to ask him to become his first officer on the Triton. 

“It makes perfect sense this is the next step in your career, Lukiz,” Banfield added.

“Don’t you want someone like Tomaz or Craigen with you?” Jen replied after getting up off from the floor. 

“No, I want you,” Banfield answered honestly, pointing at him. “Both Tomaz and Craigen are good, but they don’t have the experience like you.”

“You mean life experience from my other hosts?” Jen clarified as he put his tools away in the nearby kit box.

“That and you did serve on the Triton.” 

“That was fifteen years ago as an ensign on the gamma shift,” Jen stated back, not sounding too convinced at that point that Banfield was using. 

“And in the past fifteen years, you’ve climbed the ladder to being one of the most senior officers on this ship; you’ve got the bridge command qualifications; you are the perfect candidate, Lukiz,” Banfield insisted. “You know what sitting in the captain’s chair is like. Wasn’t your eighth host a Starfleet captain?”

 “Seventh, and it was Norvo,” He corrected her.

“And hasn’t every host since Norvo been in Starfleet in a different field of expertise?” She challenged. 

“Well, yes, but there’s only been two since. Razrim was a security officer, and then Daubin was a counsellor.” 

“So what more do you need?” Banfield asked. “Say yes. Join me.”

Rubbing his forehead and then looking around the room, Jen seriously considered her request. “All I’ve known is the Odyssey for the last ten years. I’ve got friends here that I consider family.”

“I know you do, Lukiz, and I respect that,” Banfield hesitated at first before she carried on speaking. “And I know you and Rosle have been seeing one another.”

He winced at that. “We’ve been trying to keep that a secret.”

“Well, you know this ship, it’s a gossip mill,” Banfield bluntly said. “I can’t offer Rosle anything on the Triton, but the fact we’re remaining in the squadron with the Odyssey means you’ll still be able to see one another.”

“How long do I have to consider it?” Jen inquired.

“I need to know by this evening,” Banfield stated. “As I need to start putting a crew together.”

“A whole new crew?” Jen said, surprised at hearing that.

Banfield nodded. “And so far, there’s only two of us.”

“Who?”

“Me and Carter,” She replied. “He’ll be chief engineer if you’re okay with that?”

“Carter is an excellent engineer,” Jen admitted. He took a second and nodded. “I’m provisionally saying yes, but can I at least have time to speak to Rosle about it this evening?”

“Deal!” Banfield said as she offered him her hand.

Pleased he had that assurance, Jen shook Banfield’s hand and chuckled. “I never thought about being a first officer.”

“You’ll be amazing, Lukiz!” Banfield said with confidence. “I promise you!”

The soft hum of the Odyssey provided a constant, soothing backdrop as Alfie and Jordan found themselves enveloped in a world of their own making. Jordan’s comfortable room had become a haven where they could escape the rigours of their demanding training. The dim lighting cast a warm glow over the space, illuminating the PADDs strewn across the floor. It was a showcase of the day’s hard work.

Soft music played softly in the background, adding to the moment’s intimacy. The gentle strumming of guitars and the soothing melodies seemed to amplify the emotions running through them. Alfie’s heart raced as he kissed Jordan, their lips moving in a synchronised dance they had perfected over the past few weeks. What had started with them agreeing to remain close friends had evolved back to what they had during their last training field excursion. They had reverted to it being something much more passionate, more consuming. Tonight, as they tangled together on Jordan’s bed, it felt like all the walls they’d rebuilt had finally come down. Over the last few weeks, they sneaked a few kisses here and there while training or studying. The innocence of their friendship had been lost. What they had tried to restart was gone. Everything had changed so fast again. Now, they had decided they wanted to be together, but they had decided to keep it between them for now. 

Jordan’s fingers trailed lightly over Alfie’s jawline, sending shivers down his spine. He pulled Alfie closer, deepening their kiss, their bodies pressed together, desperately trying to eliminate any space between them. They broke apart briefly, both gasping for air, their eyes meeting and communicating more than words ever could.

“Are you sure no one else is going to be around?” Alfie whispered, his voice barely audible over the hum of the ship and the soft rock ballad playing.

Jordan responded by capturing Alfie’s lips again, the intensity of the kiss leaving no room for doubt. “No one is going to be home for ages. I want you more than anything,” he breathed against Alfie’s mouth, his eyes sparkling with a mix of desire and affection.

Alfie smiled, a feeling of contentment washing over him. This was where he wanted to be, with Jordan. They had spent months convincing themselves that friendship was all they needed, but the magnetic pull between them had grown too strong to ignore. As they held each other close, the boundary between friends and lovers blurred completely. 

Their discarded cadet uniform jackets were thrown on the floor. Jordan’s hands slid under Alfie’s shirt, their touch igniting sparks on his skin. Alfie responded by running his fingers through Jordan’s hair, their kiss growing more fervent, more insistent. The rest of the galaxy seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them lost in each other’s embrace. As they lay together, their breathing eventually steadied, and the reality of their situation began to settle in. 

Jordan rested his head on Alfie’s chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. “We’ll figure it out,” he murmured, sensing Alfie’s unspoken worries.

“We will,” Alfie agreed, wrapping his arms around Jordan and holding him tight. “As long as we’re together.”

Suddenly, voices echoed downstairs. Jordan had his own room, which he shared with his parents in large quarters. They recognised the deep, authoritative tone of Jordan’s father calling out.  

“Jordan! William! Come down here, please!”

Both Alfie and Jordan froze, their eyes widening in shock. They exchanged a panicked glance, the spell of their intimate moment broken. They hadn’t expected anyone, least of all Jordan’s family, to interrupt them.

“What do we do?” Alfie whispered, his voice tense with urgency.

“I… I don’t know,” Jordan replied, his mind racing. The unexpected arrival left them with a myriad of emotions and no clear plan. They held each other’s gaze, trying to figure out their next move as the reality of their situation settled in.

“Jordan! William!” Jordan’s father called again, impatience creeping into his voice.

Jordan shot up off his bed and picked up their jackets, throwing one to Alfie and then quickly rushing to get his one on. “Get up; we just need to make it look like we were just studying.”

“Studying anatomy?” Alfie joked as he got up from the bed and started to put the jacket on. 

Seconds later, they both walked out of Jordan’s room and saw both of Jordan’s fathers standing in the living area of their shared quarters.

“Oh, Alfie, I didn’t know you were here with Jordan,” Max said, looking between his son and his friend.

Alfie looked at Max and then back at the captain. “I’m sorry, sir. We were deep in our studies.”

 “Studying what?” Tobias asked as William followed his brother and friend down the twisted staircase.

“Interspecies biology,” Jordan said, smirking.

“Must have been intense,” William commented as he walked over to one of the sofas in the centre of the room. “You guys have been in there all afternoon.”

Ignoring his younger brother, Jordan looked back at his parents. “Can Alfie leave?”

“Sure,” Max confirmed.

As he approached the door, Alfie thanked them for having him. Jordan then called out to him as the doors opened.

“I’ll drop your study notes off later?”

Alfie just nodded as he left the Duncan-Court household.

Jordan then turned back to his parents. “So, what did you want to talk to us about?”

Before his question was answered, Tobias stepped forward. “Why does your jacket look too small for you, Jord?”

Feeling alarmed that he had been caught, Jordan took a breath and looked down at his uniform. “Ah, man, I must put on Alfie’s earlier after we—” He paused as he considered his words. “We got changed from being in the gym earlier.”

Deciding to ignore it, Max just told Jordan to come and sit down so they could talk. “Listen, we’ve got some news to discuss with you, and then we’re going to visit the station to see your grandparents.”

“That sounds very formal,” William responded.

“Well, it’s important,” Tobias added.

“Things around here will change, and you both need to understand what it means,” Max said before telling them about his news. “Especially for you, Jordan.”

Jordan was intrigued as he unzipped Alfie’s jacket. It was too tight, and he needed to breathe in case whatever he was about to be told was bad news. 

Hopefully not.  

Walking into his shared quarters with his parents, Alfie soon realised he wasn’t wearing his uniform jacket as it was a bit loose around the shoulders. Smelling the collar, he realised it had Jordan’s sense on it. He smiled at that and stopped mid-track as he saw his mother and father standing at the doorway waiting for him.

“I promise it’s not what it looks like,” Alfie said. He quickly dropped his action of sniffing Jordan’s jacket.

Both James and Karyn looked at each other. Alfie immediately saw the confusion across their faces and then saw his father’s uniform change. He walked forward and smiled. “Dad, have you been promoted?”

James nodded. “I’m a commodore now!”

Closing the distance between him and his father, Alfie wrapped his arms around his dad and congratulated him. “Well done, Dad, I’m proud.”

“Thanks, mate,” James said after letting go of him. 

Alfie looked between his parents and saw something else stitched into their expressions. “So why do I feel like this isn’t good news?”

“Sit down, Alfie,” Karyn insisted as they all went to the sofa and armchairs. “We have something to talk to you about.”

Worried beyond light years, Alfie sat down. In his mind, he wondered if they had found out about him and Jordan. Had someone else noticed the small things they had been doing to one another lately? Had they been too obvious? Nerves now shuddered down his spine. 

“My promotion isn’t the only thing that has happened today,” James shared.

This now worried Alfie. 

“I’ve been asked to take command of the Bellerophon,” Karyn said. 

Relief. Pure relief swept over Alfie. “Oh wow, Mom, that’s great news too!” He got out of his seat and went over to her to hug her. “I’m super proud of you both,” He said after letting go.

“Thank you, Alfie,” Karyn said, smiling sweetly. “But it does mean I won’t be here on the Odyssey.”

“Oh,” Alfie said, realising the implications of his mother’s news. “Oh,” He repeated.

“Before you even start to think it, your mother and I are not separating,” James assured him.

“What?” Alfie asked, surprised to even hear that. “That thought didn’t cross my mind.”

“I’m sure it didn’t,” Karyn said, grabbing Alfie’s hand. “But we wanted to let you know these changes will impact us all.”

“I understand,” Alfie assured them.

“My promotion to commodore brings some changes too, Alf,” James stated. “I won’t be commanding the Odyssey anymore.”

“Who will?” Alfie instantly asked.

“Captain Duncan,” James answered.

“That makes sense,” Alfie said, realising that Jordan must have been having the same conversation with his parents.

“I may have to travel between the other ships in the squadron,” James stated. “Which means I won’t be here as much, some of the time.”

“Okay,” Alfie said.

“So,” Karyn said after looking at her husband and then back at her son, “we’ve discussed this with Max and Tobias, and if you’re up for it, we wondered if you wanted to request shared quarters with Jordan.”

Alfie’s eyes opened as wide as they could, and his chin dropped almost to the floor. “Wh-what-what?”

“Shared quarters with Jordan,” James repeated. “They won’t be as big as ours, but like the other cadets on the ship, you would have your own shared dormitory-style quarters. And this isn’t to say you can’t come home to these quarters when I’m here but with your brothers on Cestus and your mother moving to the Bellerophon and me not being around as much. We don’t want you to be alone. If Jordan agrees to it, what do you think?”

A huge grin just appeared across Alfie’s face. He imagined Jordan was doing the same thing. 

“No, Max, and that’s the fifth time I’ve said no,” Slyvexs, the Denobulan doctor and chief medical officer, emphasised even more. She was moving around her office as she tidied it up. PADDS were placed across her desk, and there were a few empty coffee mugs. “I will not become your first officer.”

“Come on, Slyvexs, you’re the next most senior officer. You have the rank, the qualification and experience,” Duncan pleaded to her.

“Yes, but I don’t have the desire, and as I told Commodore McCallister before he promoted me earlier this year, I am not interested in coming away from my work on sickbay. Be it treating a patient or undertaking medical research. I will lead all the doctors and medical staff in our squadron, but that’s as far as I go.” Slyvexs insisted.

“But why?” 

Rolling her eyes, Slyvexs paused what she was doing and stared at Duncan. “Max, you know I’ve always said I want to retire at some point. I don’t want to be stressing over being the first officer. I still want to be young enough to enjoy my retirement on Risa. Find someone else.”

“Please, Slyvexs, I need someone with years of experience as a commander. Tomaz, Craigen, Tobias, and Tierra haven’t been commanders long enough,” Duncan replied.

“Then find someone else off the ship,” Slyvexs suggested. “What about Louwanna?”

“She said no, like you,” Duncan huffed as he slumped into the chair opposite Slyvex’s desk. 

“I thought she was hoping to return to the Odyssey now that Tremt’s semi-paternal leave is over?” Slyvexs questioned as she sat down in her chair. 

“They’re considering their options,” Duncan said and then, like a torpedo hitting a shield hard, he realised something. “That’s it!”

“What is?” Slyvexs asked, confused as to what had happened so quickly. 

“Slyvexs, you’re a genius!” Duncan said as he got out of his chair and hurriedly departed sickbay. 

“Okay, bye,” Slyvexs said as she watched Duncan’s shadow instantly depart her office. She was still bewildered by what idea had reached Duncan’s head, but she was glad he was no longer pestering her. 

USS Themis (NCC-76554), docked at Deep Space 19, Kovar System, Alcott Sector, Beta Quadrant

Ten Forward on the Themis was relatively quiet for the start of the evening. It was no surprise, though, as the ship was docked at the station, and most of the crew took advantage of the station’s promenade or visited Kovar. The ship was all prepped and ready for its mission back to the Delta Quadrant, so Captain Cambil permitted her crew to enjoy the next few days off. Duncan sat in one of the booths in a far corner as he waited for his friends to arrive. His mind wandered through the memories of the past year, especially those that involved the Blood Dilithium incident. He remembered how it had impacted Hunsen and how much his friend had suffered. The trauma was still fresh, even after all this time. Hunsen had been taken over by a telepathic pitcher plant that the rogue dilithium had infected. What made the whole incident so bad was how Hunsen, who had lost control, had manipulated the other telepathic crewmembers and had led a mutiny against McCallister. It had left a bitter taste in the former chief engineer’s mouth and when the opportunity to leave came along, Hunsen had agreed to join Captain Cambil as her first officer on the Themis. Now, in the past year or so, things had changed. Hunsen had become a father and a respective leader on this ship now.  

A familiar voice snapped him out of his thoughts. “Max,” Hunsen said, a warm smile on his face as he approached the booth. Behind him was his Imazdi, Horin, her presence exuding the same calm and confidence that had always characterised her.

“Tremt, Louwanna,” Duncan greeted, standing up to embrace his friends. “It’s good to see you both.”

“Likewise,” Horin said, her Betazoid eyes sparkling. “It’s been too long, Max.”

“Congratulations on the new appointment, Captain Duncan!” Hunsen said after finishing hugging his friend.

“Thank you,” Duncan said, smirking. 

They settled into the booth, and for a while, the conversation was light. They talked about their recent missions about their families and shared some laughs. They reminisced about old times. However, Duncan knew the real reason for this meeting would soon have to come up.

Horin’s gaze softened, her telepathic abilities picking up on Duncan’s unease. “Max, you seem to have something on your mind,” she said, her voice gentle but probing. “What’s going on?”

Duncan took a deep breath. “You’re right, Louwanna. There is something I need to discuss with you both.” He turned to Hunsen, who was watching him intently, already sensing the gravity of the moment. “Tremt, I want you to come back to the Odyssey. As my first officer.”

Hunsen’s expression shifted from curiosity to surprise and then to something more complex. He projected a mix of emotions, confusion, and hesitation that both Horin and Duncan could see. “Max, I… I didn’t expect this,” he said slowly. “I left the Odyssey for a reason.”

“I know,” Duncan replied gently. “And I understand why. The whole blood dilithium incident was traumatic for all of us, but especially for you. But the Odyssey needs you, Tremt. I need you. Your expertise, your leadership… we could do so much good together.”

Hunsen looked down at his hands, his thoughts clearly conflicted. Horin placed a reassuring hand on his arm, her touch transmitting calm and support. “Tremt, sometimes facing the past is the only way to move forward. You’re one of the best officers Starfleet has, and the Odyssey could benefit greatly from your return. Someone has to keep Max in check!”

Hunsen looked up, meeting Duncan’s eyes and then back to Horin’s. The bond between Betazoids meant they didn’t need to speak to communicate the depth of their feelings. “It’s not just about me. The memories, the pain… it’s still there.”

Duncan leaned forward, his voice earnest. “Tremt, no one is asking you to forget what happened. But you’ve always been strong, even in the face of adversity. The crew respects you, and so do I. We’ll face this together as a team.”

For a long moment, there was silence as Hunsen wrestled with his thoughts. Finally, he sighed, his mental barriers lowering enough for his friends to sense his internal struggle. “I need some time to think about this, Max. It’s a big decision. Not just for me, but for us.” He looked at Horin. She smiled back at him.

Duncan nodded but then added, “I understand, Tremt. But I need to know by tomorrow. I need to finalise the crew roster and I could do with my first officer helping me.”

Hunsen’s eyes widened slightly, the pressure of the deadline adding to his turmoil. “By tomorrow?”

“Yes,” Duncan confirmed. “I wouldn’t rush you if it weren’t important, but time is of the essence.”

Horin looked at Hunsen. “Tremt, be honest, do you really need to think about this? You and I get to be together on the Odyssey, and Eddim will be both of his parents. You know the ship and the crew. Bexa will understand, and it means she can make T’Rani the first officer here.”

“Sounds like Louwanna has this already planned out for us all,” Hunsen joked.

“To quote T’Rani, it’s the logical direction,” Horin remarked with a raised eyebrow, trying to emulate their Vulcan friend. 

Hunsen looked between his Imzadi and then back to Duncan. “It looks like you have your first officer, then, Max!” He grinned.

“Fantastic!” Duncan said, almost cheering at the news as he and Hunsen hugged one another. After they let go, he told them he had to leave them. “I’ve got dinner with the folks.”

“Give my regards to the fleet admiral and captain!” Hunsen said.

“I will…Number One!” Duncan said with a wink as he got up and left the Themis. 

Captain Duncan sprinted down the corridor of the Odyssey, his footsteps echoing through the pristine halls of the starship. He had promised his family he would be back in time to change and join them for dinner on Deep Space Nineteen, but the meeting with Hunsen and Horin had run longer than expected. Max’s mind raced as he navigated the familiar path to his quarters, trying to think of ways to make up for his tardiness.

As the doors to his quarters slid open, Max was greeted by the sight of his two sons standing by the couch, already dressed and waiting. Jordan, the elder of the two, wore a crisp navy blazer over a white shirt and dark trousers. William, younger but equally dapper, sported a light grey sweater over a collared shirt paired with khaki pants and polished shoes.

“Dad, you’re late,” William remarked, a playful grin on his face.

“I know, I know,” Max replied, slightly out of breath. He ruffled William’s hair affectionately before dashing up the stairs to the bedroom he shared with his husband.

Max burst into the bedroom to find Tobias calmly adjusting his smart casual outfit in front of the holographic mirror. Tobias looked effortlessly stylish in a tailored charcoal blazer over a light blue shirt, with slim-fit black trousers and sleek black shoes. His husband turned to face him, a smile playing on his lips. 

“Sorry, I’m late!” Max apologised as he began to strip off his Starfleet uniform, tossing his jacket onto a nearby chair.

“How did your meeting with Tremt go? Did he say yes?” Tobias asked, smoothing down the front of his blazer.

Max’s eyes lit up as he hurriedly pulled his undershirt over his head. “It went really well. Tremt has agreed to become my new Number One!”

“That’s great news!” Tobias said, genuinely pleased. “I’m so happy, but you need to hurry up, or we’ll be super late meeting your parents at the station.”

Max nodded, understanding the urgency. He kicked off his boots and headed for the sonic shower. “I know, I know!” he called over his shoulder.

Several seconds later, Max emerged from the shower with a towel wrapped hastily around his waist, showing off his chiselled six-pack abs. 

Tobias raised an eyebrow, an amused glint in his eye. “You know, Max, as much as I enjoy seeing you wearing just a towel, you can’t go to the station dressed like that.”

Max chuckled, his cheeks flushing slightly as he struck a playful pose. “Point taken,” he said, then turned back towards the sonic shower after picking up the scented gel he wanted to use. 

“So tell me more about the meeting with Tremt. How did you convince him?” Tobias asked as he leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed, watching his husband with an affectionate smile. 

Max stepped back into the sonic shower to finish off, his voice slightly muffled but still audible. “Well, I think it was more the fact that Louwanna wanted him back with her here. It didn’t take too much convincing.” He rubbed his face as the sonic waves hit him. “But now we need to think about replacements for some of the senior staff. It’s going to be a challenge to get it done in the next day or so.”

“Did you hear about Lukiz?” Tobias asked, leaning closer. “He’s leaving to become the first officer on the Triton with Captain Banfield. We’ll need a new operations officer and a chief science officer.”

Max groaned from inside the shower. “Great. She did say she wanted him, but I didn’t think Lukiz would want to leave.”

“What because of him and Rosle?” Tobias checked.

“Yeah,” Max replied. “And with Karyn moving to the Bellerophon, she’ll probably be taking Edeena, which means we will also need a new training officer for the cadets.”

Tobias raised his voice slightly to be heard over the shower’s hum. “That’s a lot of vacancies to fill. Got anyone in mind?”

Max paused, scrubbing at his hair, before asking, “Actually, I was wondering if you’d be interested in taking on that role, Tobias.”

Tobias blinked in surprise, his eyes widening slightly. “Me? The training officer?”

Max rinsed off under the shower’s water mode and turned it off, stepping out with water still dripping from head to toe, glistening on his toned body. He grabbed a towel and wrapped it around his waist. “You’d be perfect for it. You have the experience, the patience, and the respect of the cadets. Plus, it would mean we get to work even closer together.”

Tobias pondered this, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. “I thought I got to work closely with you anyway,” He said suggestively as he pulled Max close to him. “It’s definitely something to consider. But we should probably focus on getting to dinner first before making any big decisions.”

Max laughed, the sound rich and warm. “Agreed. Let’s not keep my parents waiting any longer.” As Max hurriedly dressed in his civilian clothes, choosing a fitted white shirt, a light grey blazer, and dark trousers, finishing the look with a pair of brown leather shoes, he could feel Tobias’s eyes on him.

After fastening the last button on his shirt, Max turned to Tobias. “How do I look?”

Tobias stepped closer, straightening Max’s collar with a tender touch. “You look perfect,” he said, pressing a kiss to Max’s lips. “Now, let’s go before we end up missing dinner entirely.”

Hand in hand, Max and Tobias made their way downstairs to where Jordan and William were waiting. 

“Ready to go?” Max asked, looking at his sons.

“Ready,” Jordan replied with a nod.

“Then let’s not keep your grandparents waiting,” Max said, ushering his family out of their quarters and towards the docking port. 

Deep Space 19, Kovar System, Alcott Sector, Beta Quadrant

Stardate: 78750.3

Jen sat across from Rosle in The Clocktower Inn, the ambiance of the restaurant warm and inviting. The Clocktower Inn was a favourite spot on Deep Space 19, known for its blend of classic and contemporary cuisine. Rosle wore a sleek, dark red dress that complimented her auburn hair.

They were halfway through their appetisers—Jen had chosen the calamari, while Rosle opted for a salad—when Jen decided it was time to share his news. He took a deep breath, trying to gauge the best way to start.

“Rosle, there’s something important I need to tell you,” Jen began, his voice steady but filled with a hint of apprehension.

Rosle looked up from her plate, her eyes meeting his with curiosity and a touch of concern. “What is it, Lukiz? You look serious.”

Jen reached across the table, taking her hand in his. “I’ve been offered a new position. I’ve accepted a role as the first officer on the Triton.”

Rosle’s eyes widened in surprise, but she quickly composed herself. “Lukiz, that’s incredible! Congratulations!” Her smile was genuine, but there was a flicker of worry in her eyes. “When do you transfer?”

“Tomorrow,” Lukiz replied, squeezing her hand gently. “I didn’t want to keep it from you any longer. I know this complicates things for us, but I didn’t want to make a decision without talking to you first.”

Rosle nodded, her fingers lightly tracing the back of his hand. “I appreciate that. It’s a wonderful opportunity for you, and I’m really happy. But yes, it does complicate things.” She paused, her eyes searching his. “But I don’t want to stop our relationship. I’m willing to give it a try if you are.”

Jen’s relief was palpable. “I was hoping you’d say that. I don’t want to lose what we have, Rosle. We’ll figure it out, won’t we?”

“Of course we will,” Rosle said firmly.

As they continued their meal, discussing how they would manage the distance and their plans to visit each other, the door to the restaurant opened, and Jen caught sight of Duncan and Court walking in with their sons in tow, looking sharp in their smart casual attire.

“Look who it is,” Lukiz said, nodding towards the entrance. 

Rosle turned her head and smiled. “They seem to be in a good mood. It must be a family dinner or something. Maybe they’re celebrating the captain’s new job?”

Duncan and Court spotted them, and Duncan gave a warm wave. “Lukiz! Rosle! Enjoying your evening?” Duncan called out as they approached.

“Yes, thanks,” Jen replied. “Just having a celebratory dinner.”

“Celebratory?” Tobias asked, raising an eyebrow.

Jen nodded. “I was just telling Rosle about my new position. I’ve accepted the role of first officer on the Triton.”

Duncan’s face lit up with pride. “We had heard the rumours! That’s fantastic news, Lukiz. Congratulations! You’ll be missed on the Odyssey, but the Triton is lucky to have you.”

“Thank you, Captain,” Lukiz said. “I’ll miss you all as well.”

The other couple exchanged a few more pleasantries before excusing themselves to join Duncan’s parents at their table. As they walked away, Rosle turned back to Jen, a tender smile on her face.

“This is going to work, I promise,” she said softly. 

Jen felt a surge of gratitude and affection. “Thank you, Rosle. That means the world to me.” He leant forward over the table as she did, and they briefly kissed. 

“To us,” He said with a smile, picking up his glass. 

“To us,” she replied before picking up her drink, raising it towards him, and clinking it against him. 

Stirring from his sleep after hearing the computer announce the time, Max found himself wrapped up with his husband close by. Looking down at his chest, Max saw Tobias’ face resting against his torso, all snuggled into him with his right arm wrapped closely across his abs. Taking a moment to savour this time, Max smiled. 

Tobias, still half-asleep, mumbled something unintelligible and snuggled closer. Max couldn’t help but smile more as he kissed Tobias’s forehead softly. “Good morning, Commander Court,” he whispered. 

Tobias blinked a few times, his eyes slowly focusing. A sleepy smile spread across his face as he looked up at Max. “Morning, birthday boy,” he said, his voice thick with sleep. He reached up to pull Max into a gentle kiss. “Happy birthday.”

Max chuckled. “Thank you, Tobes. It’s a good start to the day already.”

“I can make it an even better one if you want?” Tobias asked suggestively as he leaned further on top of Max.

“Oh yeah?” 

“Oh yeah!” Tobias echoed back before he reached over to the bedside table and retrieved a small, neatly wrapped package.

Max chuckled at Tobias’s attempt at being seductive and stupid simultaneously. Curious, he took the package. “You didn’t have to get me anything,” he said, but his smile showed his appreciation.

“Of course I did,” Tobias replied, settling back against the pillows to watch Max open the gift.

Max carefully unwrapped the package, revealing a small, ornate box. He opened it to find an old-fashioned compass pocket watch nestled inside. The brass casing was polished to a shine, and the intricate engravings on the lid hinted at its craftsmanship.

“Tobias, this is incredible,” Max said, his voice filled with awe. He gently lifted the watch from its box, feeling its weight in his hand. “It’s beautiful.”

Tobias’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “It’s not just any watch,” he explained. “It’s a compass pocket watch. I thought it would be perfect for your first day officially commanding the Odyssey. Something to remind you of your path, wherever it may lead.”

Max’s heart swelled with emotion as he turned the watch over in his hands. “It’s perfect,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper. He leaned in to kiss Tobias, a kiss full of gratitude and love. “Thank you, Tobias. This means more to me than you know.”

Tobias smiled, resting his hand on Max”s cheek. “You deserve it, Max. You’ve worked so hard for this. I’m so proud of you.”

Max felt a surge of determination and confidence. Today was a significant day—his first day as the captain of the Odyssey.

Stepping into the living room of his quarters, Commodore James McCallister stopped before he reached the final step of the twisted staircase. He looked around and realised just how empty his quarters now seemed. With his wife now on the Bellerophon, conducting final transfer requests for her crew and Alfie already out on his morning run with Jordan, the whole place wasn’t feeling like his home anymore. 

These quarters had been home to him and his family for over fifteen years. His boys had grown up on the Odyssey. He had raised his family, and now that they were all going off in different directions, he wondered if he could accept remaining here. Should he request smaller quarters and allow this space to be reused for VIPs?

“Computer, tea, hot,” He ordered as he took his final steps across the living room and into the kitchen area. The replicator came to life and automatically created his warm beverage. Picking it up, McCallister sipped it and noticed his reflection against the replicator’s shiny surface.

His new commodore pips and gold piping looked odd. McCallister was more used to seeing his previous uniform. This one made him look older. Should he have turned the promotion down? Would he still have been able to continue? Probably not.

The door chime went off.

“Come in,” McCallister replied. 

Standing in the doorway, wearing his cadet uniform and looking smart, was his son, Alfie.

“Alf, I thought you went for a run this morning with Jordan?” McCallister asked his son. He couldn’t get over how handsome Alfie was in his uniform. He reminded him a lot of himself back when he was a young, eager cadet.

“I did, but Jordan and I decided to go early. We’ve also started to move some of our staff into our quarters,” Alfie said. “So I decided to take a shower there, get changed and meet you here.”

“That’s kind, but why?” McCallister asked as he put his mug down on the nearby kitchen counter. 

“As you’re officially starting your new job today as sole squadron commander, I thought I would walk you to the command centre,” Alfie replied. He then stood to attention before speaking in a more formal tone. “Cadet Alfie McCallister-Reyas reporting for duty, sir!”

“At ease, cadet,” McCallister said with a smirk. “Let me guess, your mother asked you to do this?”

Alfie sighed. “A bit, but I planned to do something nice, Dad.”

McCallister chuckled as he walked over to his son and gave him a hug. “I appreciate it.”

“She also ordered me to make sure you’ve eaten breakfast,” Alfie said after they let go. “So, I’ve organised for us to have breakfast in the commodore’s private dining hall.”

“There is no commodore’s private dining hall,” 

Alfie shook his head. “Yeah, there is,” He replied. “Well, as of oh-five hundred this morning, there is. Captain Duncan ordered a refurbishment of one of the private function rooms for your use.”

“I see my former first officer is already taking over my old places,” McCallister joked. He hadn’t even considered the fact that the captain’s dining hall was no longer his. Perhaps he should consider relocating to one of the other ships in the squadron? 

“So, hurry up, or we’ll be late, and I’m starving!” Alfie remarked, rubbing his belly.

“Some things never change,” McCallister chuckled as he put his arm over his son’s shoulders and gave him one more hug before they left his quarters to have breakfast together.

USS Themis (NCC-76554), docked at Deep Space 19, Kovar System, Alcott Sector, Beta Quadrant

“What’s all this?” 

Captain Cambil looked up from where she sat at the table’s head and stood up gracefully. “It’s your going away breakfast!” 

Hunsen grinned as he stepped into the captain’s private dining hall. “I know we only spoke about this last night, but—”

“There’s no ‘but’, Tremt,” Cambil stopped him as she gestured for him to join her. “We might not be able to give you the going away celebration I’d like, but you can at least officially have one final meal with me before you go.”

“Thank you, ma’am,” He replied sincerely.

“Sit, sit,” Cambil insisted as she poured Deka tea into some cups. In the last few months, she had gotten Hunsen hooked on the beverage for breakfast. “Just remember, not even Max Duncan can outdo me on a celebratory breakfast.”

“I won’t, ma’am,” Hunsen chuckled. “I promise.”

She picked up one cup, handed it to him, and took her own. “To my Number One.”

Clinking their cups against each other, Hunsen appreciated the sentiment. “Thank you, ma’am. It has been an honour.”

“Drop the formalities, Tremt; you’re only my first officer for another two hours or so,” Cambil said as she placed a napkin over her lap. “But it has been an honour to have you as my first, first officer.”

Hunsen took a sip of his tea. “So, who’s my replacement?”

“T’Rani, of course,” Cambil confirmed. 

“She’ll make an excellent first officer,” Hunsen agreed. 

“I’m promoting her and Cline,” Cambil shared.

“Good, they deserve it, especially after completing their latest bridge qualifications,” He stated. “I hear Max has asked Abbej if she could join Odyssey?”

“Yeah, she’s turned him down. For now, she wants to remain here; even though things between her and Tierra are mending, they still want to give it time.” Cambil informed him. “I’m afraid you’ll need to find someone else to poach. Got any candidates in mind?”

“Max and I are going through candidates later,” Hunsen conveyed. “There’s someone that Captain Banfield knows who is currently teaching down at the Academy’s campus on Kovar; we may approach.”

“Anyone else you plan to steal?” Cambil asked, putting her cup down.

“From here?” He checked. Cambil nodded. “No one; the others are all either based from the station or the Starfleet facilities on Kovar. I think the new crews from the Bellerophon and Triton are being taken from the Odyssey.”

“Not all those eager young cadets?” Cambil probed.

Hunsen shook his head. “No, no, they’re staying behind with us. Though the training unit is losing some of its senior staff, it will continue to function in a different capacity on the Odyssey.” 

“Well, I hope it goes smoothly and with good luck,” Cambil said sincerely. “We could do with luck before we return to the Delta Quadrant.”

“Are you worried about our return to the other side of the galaxy?” Hunsen asked as the holographic servers came in with their usual breakfast orders.

Shrugging, Cambil showed some concern. “I am, and I’m not, if that makes sense. It’s returning to what we know but through a new means. That said, I am intrigued by what we may find. I just hope we don’t have another run into the Krenim.”

“Agreed,” Hunsen said, raising his cup again. “Here’s to no more alternative timeline shenanigans!”

“All hands, attention to orders. From Fourth Fleet Operations to Captain Karyn Reyas. As of this date, you are requested and required to take command of U-S-S Bellerophon. Signed, Fleet Admiral Luke R. Duncan, stardate seven-eight-seven-five-five point one.”

Commodore James Preston McCallister stood in the centre of the bridge of the Bellerophon with a PADD in his hands. In his dress uniform, McCallister smirked at his wife as he passed her the device. 

“Computer, transfer all command codes to Captain Reyas, voice authorisation McCallister four-seven-alpha-tango,” McCallister ordered, his voice resonating with the formality and significance of the moment.

“Command codes transferred. U-S-S Bellerophon, now under the command of Captain Karyn Reyas.”

“I relieve you, sir,” Reyas said, her voice filled with formality and a noticeable dash of humour, adding a light-hearted touch to the serious moment. She grinned quite a lot at her husband handing over the Bellerophon to her. 

“I stand relieved,” McCallister said, shaking his wife’s hand. 

“Okay, everyone, we’ve got some work to do,” Reyas declared to her crew. 

“Like getting a ship launched in less than twenty-four hours,” Jirani, Reyas’ new first officer, said.

“And I have another two more ships to launch,” McCallister shared before he excused himself as he left the bridge. Walking towards the turbolift, McCallister looked around the Intrepid-class bridge. As the lift doors opened, he took one more glance around and saw his wife catch his eye. She smirked. He smirked back. Watching her take her seat, McCallister knew she was okay, and he could move on.

USS Triton (NCC-80106), docked at Deep Space 19, Kovar System, Alcott Sector, Beta Quadrant

“All hands, attention to orders. From Fourth Fleet Operations to Captain Corella Banfield. As of this date, you are requested and required to take command of U-S-S Triton. Signed, Fleet Admiral Luke R. Duncan, stardate seven-eight-seven-five-five point one.”

Returning to his former command, McCallister felt a level of nostalgia brush over him. He had been in this position back in the mid-eighties. Taking command of the Luna-class ship, ready to leave a diverse crew. He had been here before, and now he was looking at the woman who was stepping in to take on the next journey with this crew. She was no James Preston McCallister, no Rio Canção, no Horatio McCallister. Corella Banfield was her own person. She was impressive. She was professional. She was honourable. She was ready for the centre seat. 

Again, as he had just performed on the Bellerophon, McCallister took in a breath and spoke up. “Computer, transfer all command codes to Captain Banfield, voice authorisation McCallister four-seven-alpha-tango.”

“Command codes transferred. U-S-S Triton, now under the command of Captain Corella Banfield.”

“I relieve you, sir,” Banfield said, extending her hand towards her former captain.

McCallister shook her hand. “I stand relieved, captain.” Smiling at Banfield, he saw Jen standing behind her. “Commander Jen, I’m expecting you to help look after this ship.”

 “Don’t worry, sir, we’ll take good care of her,” Jen confirmed. 

Banfield nodded. “Triton is in safe hands, I promise.”

“I know she is,” McCallister stated. Again, he took a glance around. McCallister had loved this ship many years ago. He had wished he had commanded her a lot longer, but then he wouldn’t have had the opportunity with the Odyssey.

“I’ll leave you two alone to get your crew together,” McCallister told them before he turned around and headed straight to the lift. 

He had one more old lover to see off.

USS Odyssey (NCC-80000), docked at Deep Space 19, Kovar System, Alcott Sector, Beta Quadrant

“Commodore on deck!” declared Tomaz at the top of his voice. 

Everyone was assembled on the Odyssey’s bridge. The entire senior staff stood around the edge, all at attention. The gesture was kind and appreciated by McCallister, especially when he saw his son standing to one side, too. 

Stepping out onto the bridge from the turbolift, McCallister crossed the bridge. Over fifteen years, he made this journey on numerous occasions. Now, McCallister would not be making it to the centre seat anymore. Instead, he was now handing over everything to the man who had been his right hand for the last couple of years. He had made Duncan a captain earlier on in the year during the Dominion Lost Fleet incursion into the Deneb sector. Now, it was time to make it all official.

Gazing around the bridge, he took in everyone’s glare. Tomaz, Flemen, Court, Slyvexs, Horin, Tierra, Keli, Rosle and Gray. All of them were in dress uniforms, too. 

“Captain Duncan, are you ready to take over?” McCallister asked his friend.

Duncan just nodded.

“Then let’s make this quick,” McCallister said as they stood together in the centre. Seeing Hunsen standing close to Duncan, McCallister was pleased to see his former chief engineer back on the bridge of the Odyssey. He agreed with Duncan’s choice of his new first officer. “Now, everyone, I’m not going anywhere fast, but I want to make it clear that the Odyssey is just my flagship now; the true commander is,” He stopped and looked at Duncan. “Maxwell Jack Duncan-Court.”

A good number of them cheered.

Pulling a PADD out that he had, McCallister read its contents. “To Commodore James Preston McCallister, Commanding Officer U-S-S Odyssey, stardate seven-eight-seven-five-five point one. You are hereby requested and required to relinquish command of your vessel to Captain Maxwell Duncan-Court, Executive Officer U-S-S Odyssey, as of this date. Signed, Fleet Admiral Luke Duncan, Fourth Fleet Operations.” Looking up from the device, McCallister smiled at Duncan again. “Computer, transfer all command codes to Captain Max Duncan. Voice authorisation, McCallister four-seven-alpha-tango.”

“Transfer complete. U-S-S Odyssey now under command of Captain Maxwell Duncan,” The computer replied.

“I relieve you, commodore,” Duncan said, extending his hand.

Shaking Duncan’s hand firmly, McCallister replied. “I stand relieved.”

Looking around the bridge, Duncan ordered everyone to be dismissed. He turned back to McCallister. “Commodore, I know you want us to get going soon, but we’re still down in a few key positions.”

McCallister nodded. “I know, Max, but the Delta Quadrant doesn’t wait for anyone. You still looking for an ops manager?”

“We are,” Duncan confirmed.

“Then speak with Admiral Jaret. I know she’s got a strong deputy operations officer. She may lend her, or she may join full-time,” McCallister advised.

“Thank you, sir,” Duncan replied. 

“No worries,” McCallister stated before looking over at Tomaz. “Commander Tomaz and I have a briefing with Starfleet Intelligence. I’ll catch you later?”

“Sounds good to me,” Duncan said before leaving the commodore’s company.

McCallister caught his son’s attention and made his way over to Alfie. “You okay?”

“I’m fine, thanks, sir,” Alfie answered. He leaned in quietly. “You okay?”

Appreciating the sentiment, McCallister nodded.

“I always thought you would be captain of the Odyssey, Dad,” Alfie said as they approached the turbolift.

“Just remember, Alfie, not everything is certain,” McCallister counselled. Once again, McCallister looked over his shoulder and saw Duncan getting to work with his new senior staff. 

McCallister was proud. He had built these people up, and he was happy to be passing the torch. 

Sitting at the back of the lecture hall, Duncan wondered if he had been seen by the professor taking the session. Remaining quiet, he just observed. He was here not just to learn about what the lecture was about but to gauge if its key speaker was a potential as his new chief science officer.

At the front of the room, standing confidently before a massive holographic display, was Commander Brianna Reddick. Her presence was commanding and magnetic. In her late thirties, she radiated confidence and poise. Her skin seemed to glow under the soft lighting of the room. Her expressive dark eyes, framed by long lashes, held a spark of intelligence and curiosity that captivated her audience. Reddick’s black hair was pulled back into a sleek, tight bun at the nape of her neck, emphasising her strong jawline and high cheekbones. She held the room’s attention as she continued with her talking points. 

The subject of today’s lecture: wormholes.

The lights dimmed, and a holographic display flickered to life; Reddick began, her voice clear and resonant. “Greetings, esteemed travellers of the stars. Tonight, we embark on a journey into the heart of one of the universe’s most wondrous and mysterious marvels: the enchanted gateways known as wormholes.”

Duncan smirked at her flare for the dramatics that was expected for an Hysperian. He kept his focus on Reddick as she continued her presentation. 

She gestured to the holographic display, which now showed a dynamic 3D model of a wormhole, its swirling, luminous structure captivating the audience. “Wormholes are mystical passageways through the very fabric of space-time, conjuring enchanted shortcuts for epic voyages across the cosmos. Picture, if you will, the ability to journey from one distant realm of the galaxy to another in the blink of an eye.”

As she spoke, her hands moved gracefully, manipulating the hologram to show the complex mathematics and physical principles underlying how a wormhole worked. She explained the concepts of neutrino energy, ionised hydrogen, theta-band radiation and quantum-level fluctuations – all fundamental components needed to stabilise a traversable wormhole.

Reddick’s lecture was a masterful blend of profound scientific knowledge and engaging storytelling. She wove in historical references to Einstein and Rosen’s pioneering work, anecdotes from Starfleet missions that had encountered wormholes, and the latest research from the Trill Science Ministry. The cadets were enthralled, their attention unwavering as Reddick posed thought-provoking questions and encouraged active participation.

“Now,” she continued, “let’s consider the potential applications and risks of wormhole travel. While the idea of instantaneous travel is tantalising, we must also address the inherent dangers—unstable wormholes, temporal anomalies, and the ethical implications of such power. Which is quite interesting to what is happening in our galaxy now.”

Her passion for the subject was evident, and her enthusiasm was infectious. Duncan couldn’t help but be impressed by her ability to make complex topics accessible and exciting. He noted her command of the room, the respect she garnered from her audience, and the ease with which she handled questions.

As the lecture drew to a close, Reddick summarised the key points and opened the floor for further discussion. The room erupted with eager questions, and she answered each with patience and clarity, fostering a vibrant dialogue.

Satisfied with what he had seen, Duncan quietly exited the hall, leaving the cadets to their discussions. He made his way through the campus corridors, deep in thought. Reddick had not only proven her expertise in theoretical physics but also demonstrated the qualities he sought in a leader—a brilliant mind, an engaging communicator, and a mentor who could inspire the next generation of Starfleet scientists.

Duncan knew one thing for certain: he needed Reddick on the Odyssey.

After sitting outside for a little while, Duncan turned to see Reddick standing before him.

“Captain Duncan,” Reddick chirped. “I noticed you at the back of my lecture. What do I owe the pleasure to?”

Duncan smiled. They had never met before, so he was somewhat astonished that she knew of him. “It’s been a few years since I visited the campus here on Kovar. I was just returning for old time’s sake.”

“Nostalgia?” Reddick questioned. “That doesn’t sound like you, sir.”

“And what do you know of me?” Duncan asked bluntly. 

“That you’ve just taken command of the Odyssey, your father is the famed Fleet Admiral Luke Duncan and your mother, Captain Nicola Duncan, is a former mentor of mine,” Reddick replied.

“You’ve served with my mother?” Duncan questioned. 

“Oh yes, many years ago when I was a young lowly ensign,” Reddick chuckled. “And I’m also good friends with your former chief science officer.”

“Corella?”

She nodded. “I taught alongside her back on Mellstoxx a few years ago before transferring here.” Reddick gestured to the building around here. “Can I get you a drink?” She gestured towards a small nearby replimat in the lobby area of the main building. “The Kovar Campus may not be as state of the art as the one back in San Francisco or even on Mellstoxx, but it has its charms.”

“Thank you, Tarkalean team extra sweet would be nice,” Duncan replied. 

“Ah, a man after my own heart,” she jokingly said as she went over to the replicator, ordered two teas, and brought them back to the table where Duncan was now sitting. 

“You mentioned you knew Corella; I assume you know she’s taking command of the Triton?” Duncan asked after thanking her for his drink. He raised the glass mug to his lips and took a sip. He was impressed with how good the replicator had made it. 

By this time, Reddick had sat down and her drink in her hands. In response to his question, she nodded before taking a sip. “Yeah, it’s about time she had her own ship.”

“So I’ll get straight to the point,” Duncan said, deciding he was fed up with beating around the bush. “I need a new chief science officer, and I’m told you’re one of the best in the sector. Are you interested?”

Reddick chuckled. “I had a feeling something like this would happen sooner or later.”

“What do you mean by that?” Duncan probed. 

Resting back into her chair, Reddick asked permission to speak freely, showing she respected his rank and position as her superior. Duncan nodded before drinking more of his tea as Reddick replied. “I’ve enjoyed being a teacher for some time now, but there’s always that niggling feeling in the back of your mind that if you’re doing a good job in teaching the next generation, that at some point you’ll be asked to return to an active field assignment.”

“A few years ago, I was just a counsellor; now I’m a captain. Sometimes life throws the unexpected at you, commander,” Duncan responded.

“Yes, but you’ve been on the Odyssey for a long time. I’m not surprised that you followed in, Capt—” she paused as she corrected herself. “I meant Commodore McCallister’s footsteps.”

“Well, you’ve still not answered my question,” Duncan insisted. “Plus, what you’ve just taught in there,” He pointed to the nearby doors to the lecture hall, “Would certainly help on our mission.”

“The underspace corridors,” Reddick stated as she took some more of her drink. “They are a fascinating phenomenon.”

“So come study them as we head through one of their apertures,” Duncan suggested. 

Scratching the back of her head, Reddick considered his offer. “It’s tempting, sir, it really is, but I’ve got students here who rely on me as their tutor, and I’m in the middle of research.”

“So bring your research with you and your students,” Duncan remarked.

“Come again, sir?”

“You heard me,” Duncan said plainly. “The Odyssey has its own training unit; in fact, my husband is about to take over leading it, and my son is a member of it. We could do with someone else helping him with it.”

“That’s a lot of responsibility,” Reddick retorted. “I’d have to ask the commandment of the campus if that’s okay.”

“You don’t need to,” Duncan stated, placing his drink down. “I’ve already cleared it with her.”

“You have?”

Duncan nodded. “You tutor a group of seventeen cadets, and the Odyssey have plenty of research labs. As Chief Science Officer, you can have your own personal one if you so deem it.”

Reddick paused in her conversation as she seriously considered Duncan’s offer. “If we’re going to be studying these underspace corridors, then you’ll need one hell of a pilot.”

Smirking, Duncan was starting like Reddick, especially because she was one step ahead of him. “I take it you have someone in mind?”

“I do, in fact,” She replied with a smile as she diverted her eyes across the lobby towards someone approaching her. “Here comes my knight in shining armour now.”

Duncan turned his head over his shoulder to see a tallish Mazerite man in a red Starfleet uniform approaching them. He bore the rank of lieutenant commander. Duncan had not met him before, but he was impressed that Reddick knew they required a chief flight control officer. Had she just saved him hours of searching?

“Captain Max Duncan, please meet Lieutenant Commander Elddie Paynkor, one of our flight instructors,” Reddick introduced.

Paynkor had changed his demeanour after seeing who Reddick was sitting with. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, sir,” he said, extending his hand to shake Duncan’s. 

Duncan couldn’t excuse how handsome the lieutenant commander was. Paynkor had a genuine and inviting smile, along with strong cheekbones. His dark brown and slightly tousled hair complemented his overall look. His Mazerite grey streaks from his temple to behind his ears were noticeable, along with the two folded skin flaps on the sides of his face. 

“Commander Reddick said you’re a pilot,” Duncan stated after finishing shaking his hand.

Paynkor appeared to blush slightly. “I’ve flown a number of ships in my time, sir.”

“Anything as big as an Odyssey-class?” Duncan tested.

“I’ve flown a Sovereign and a Galaxy, sir,” Paynkor answered. “Why?”

Duncan then smirked and looked at Reddick. She was good, and he was getting a good vibe from the man standing in front of him. “Why don’t you join us, commander?” Duncan offered the spare seat. “I’m sure we’ve got plenty to talk about.”

Hunsen made his way through Deep Space Nineteen, trying to locate the one person he was sent to find and talk to. His path led him to a section of the station where maintenance was being conducted. Sparks flew from a conduit as a figure in a Starfleet engineering uniform worked diligently, partially obscured by a tangle of cables and tools. Hunsen paused for a moment, observing the scene before him. Being an engineer, Hunsen smirked at the scene before him. He had been here many times as a senior officer. Taking control of maintenance issues had been something Hunsen had done as a chief engineer. It was a matter of pride and a matter of ensuring quality. He looked at the person he was seeking and saw a similar pride in the work she was undertaking.

The figure straightened, revealing herself to be a Bajoran woman with intense, focused eyes and a ridged nose characteristic of her people. Her short, pixie strawberry blonde hair did not move an inch. She worked tirelessly. 

“Dalen Marjo?” Hunsen called out, stepping closer. The woman glanced up, her eyes briefly scanning his face before returning to her work.

“Commander Dalen Marjo,” she corrected, not missing a beat as she continued to manipulate the tools in her hands. “And you are?”

“Commander Tremt Hunsen, U-S-S Them-” He paused as he corrected himself. “Odyssey,” he introduced himself, his voice steady and confident. “I’ve come to see if you’d be interested in joining us as Chief Operations Officer.”

Dalen didn’t stop working, but her eyes flickered with a hint of curiosity. “I’ve heard of the Odyssey. Impressive ship. But as you can see, I’m a bit busy right now.” She punctuated her statement by tightening a hatchet with a hyper-spanner. 

Hunsen smiled, appreciating her dedication. “I’ve read your file: a brilliant mathematician and an exceptional engineer. Your work speaks for itself. We need someone like you on the Odyssey.”

Dalen chuckled and paused her work, looking directly at Hunsen for the first time. “Flattery won’t get you far, Commander. I put my work first, and I’m not in the habit of leaving things unfinished.”

“You should have been made Chief of Operations here on Deep Space Nineteen earlier this year,” Hunsen stated. 

“That’s not for me or you to comment on,” Dalen said, her focus remaining on her work. “That’s for the admiral to decide.”

“Admiral Jaret is a fine leader and chose to have her new chief of operations because she needed her first officer,” Hunsen remarked. 

“Are you implying the admiral picked Commander Horin so she could get Captain Horin?” Dalen asked.

Hunsen shrugged his shoulders. 

“I know who you are, Commander Hunsen,” She replied. “In fact, I know that Captain Horin is your brother-in-law or whatever you Betazoids call the brother of your Imzadi. So why are you trying to convince me to join your crew while using your Imzadi as the bad guy?”

Hunsen paused. Damn, she was good, he thought. “I’m not saying Jaxxon or Anizza are the bad guys here, but I’d like to help you with your career.”

“I’m happy with my career; thank you, commander,” she replied, continuing to focus on her work. 

“You get to be Chief Operations Officer on one of Starfleet’s finest ships,” Hunsen said. “The Odyssey is a ship that demands the best, and we offer challenges that would match your skills. Your determination and expertise would be invaluable.”

Dalen considered this for a moment before returning to her task. “I’ve heard that before. Why should I believe the Odyssey is any different?”

Hunsen stepped closer, lowering his voice slightly to convey sincerity. “Because we need someone who doesn’t just excel but also inspires. Someone who can face the unknown with unwavering resolve. The Odyssey faces a new frontier, and we need someone who can help us navigate through the challenges ahead. We need you.”

Dalen stopped, her eyes locking onto Hunsen’s, weighing his words carefully. After a moment, she set down her tools and extended her hand. “You make a compelling case, Commander Hunsen. I’ll consider it.”

Hunsen smirked and took her hand, a firm and mutual respect passing between them. “From one engineer to another, I hope you will join us.”

Looking at him carefully, Dalen considered his point. “You’re an engineer, aren’t you?”

“Before I was a first officer,” He nodded. “And the Odyssey was the last ship I was responsible for.”

“So I assume she’s in a good state,” Dalen guessed.

“My former deputy took over from me; yes, she is.”

“Which would make my life as chief operations officer easy?” Dalen probed.

“Keeping a floating starbase operational is no easy job,” Hunsen stated. “It needs someone with the experience to manage it.”

“Another good point,” Dalen agreed. “Give me a hand with this replacement, and let’s keep talking.” 

Hunsen agreed to the idea. He started to like this woman and now saw why his Imzadi’s brother suggested he meet with her.

“All ships report ready, sir,” Dalen announced confidently from the ops station, her voice indicating thorough preparation and a hint of pride. Though she had only taken on the position with less than twenty-four hours’ notice, she (and the others) had quickly transferred to the Odyssey and were quickly acclimatising. 

“Helm standing by, captain,” Paynkor reported from the helm, his tone tinged with the excitement of the impending adventure. The former academy flight instructor appeared to be sitting comfortably in the pilot’s seat. After meeting with Duncan, he jumped at the chance to join the Odyssey. The captain had reviewed his service record and was more than happy to bring someone else who was more than qualified and experienced. 

Taking a deep breath, Duncan looked at his first officer and grinned. This was it. This was the start of their journey.

Hunsen returned the same expression, eyes sparkling with shared anticipation, and gave out the next set of orders. “Prepare for departure, everyone. Helm, set a course for the underspace aperture. Engineering, stand by for warp speed.”

“Commander Reddick, are we all connected regarding shared sensor telemetry?” Duncan asked his new chief science officer, his voice calm but charged with the weight of responsibility.

Looking up from the science station, Reddick nodded in affirmation. “Confirmed, sir. The squadron’s sensors are harmonised, granting absolute vision of what all will behold. We will keep a running record as we enter the underspace aperture.” Reddick’s enthusiasm was laced in her tone. Again, like the other two, she had moved her entire world to be with them on the Odyssey in less than a day. Her cadets had also moved in too.  

“Bridge to engineering, status report,” Duncan asked next after tapping his combadge.

“All systems are ready to go, captain,” replied Tierra. “I’ve reinforced the shielding with the main deflector, just in case we encounter any unknown debris in the corridor.”

“Excellent,” Duncan said as he sat in the centre of the Odyssey’s bridge. As he did, the turbolift doors opened, and McCallister walked out, his presence commanding and reassuring.

“Commodore on the bridge,” announced Keli from the security station.

McCallister waved off the formality with a casual yet authoritative gesture as he walked over to stand behind Duncan’s seat. “Open a channel to the squadron,” he ordered.

Though this was no longer his bridge, McCallister still commanded the squadron and the mission. Duncan knew that it may take some time to get used to these changes, but he had no issues with it. 

“Channel open, sir,” Dalen stated crisply.

“This is Commodore McCallister to all ships; we’re about to mark history as the first group of Starfleet ships to enter this area of the Delta Quadrant since Voyager travelled through it. We need to make a good impression. Stay close, and let’s get through the next phase together. McCallister out.” He nodded to the Bajoran at ops to cut the channel. He looked over at Duncan. “The show is all yours, captain.”

“Thank you, sir,” Duncan replied, appreciating the commodore’s gesture before looking at his helm officer. “Let’s get underway, Commander Paynkor. Take us out, full impulse.”

The Odyssey gracefully detached from the space station, its sleek hull gliding effortlessly away from Deep Space Nineteen. The remaining squadron maintained precise formation as they followed.

“Approaching the aperture, sir,” Paynkor announced, his voice steady yet filled with anticipation.

“Take us in,” Duncan ordered.

Moving in a tight formation, the Odyssey Squadron entered the underspace corridor. The stars blurred around them as they slipped into the mysterious realm and disappeared from the Kovar system. The journey had begun, and the Delta Quadrant awaited them.

Sitting alone at a table in the auditorium, Dalen held a steaming glass of Deka Tea in one hand while glancing over a ship status report displayed on her PADD. She methodically worked through her hasperat, the spicy Bajoran dish providing a comforting warmth. Her focus was solely on her lunch and the report, tuning out the surrounding buzz of the room.

“Commander, may I join you?”

Dalen looked up to see Reddick standing before her with a tray in hand. “Sure, go right ahead,” she said, gesturing to the seat opposite.

“Thank you,” Reddick replied with a warm smile. “I hope you don’t mind the intrusion, but I was hoping us new maidens could stick together.”

Dalen felt slightly awkward at Reddick’s choice of words but decided not to comment on it.

“How are you settling in, Commander?” Reddick asked as she unwrapped her sandwich and took a bite.

“Fine, thank you,” Dalen responded, trying to keep the conversation polite and brief.

“Yeah, it certainly feels like we’ve been thrown into the deep end with all of this,” Reddick remarked. “But have you seen the huge lagoon?”

“Lagoon?” Dalen echoed, puzzled by the term.

“Sorry, I meant pool,” Reddick corrected herself with a sheepish grin.

“You’re Hysperian,” Dalen noted, the realisation dawning on her.

Reddick chuckled as she finished her mouthful. “What gave me away?”

“The odd use of noble language,” Dalen answered.

“Cursed by my own enchantment,” Reddick said with a playful sigh. “I noticed you don’t wear your earring.”

Dalen smirked, not really wanting to get into a long, drawn-out discussion about her heritage. “I don’t believe in the Prophets.”

The ship-wide intercom crackled to life before Reddick could respond or Dalen could say no more.

“All hands, standby to enter normal space. Senior staff, report to your stations,” announced Hunsen.

“No rest for the wicked,” Reddick said as both women stood up from the table. As they started to head towards the auditorium’s exit, Reddick turned to Dalen. “So, Commander, what do you do for amusement?”

Dalen sighed inwardly; she just wanted to get back to work. “Not much, Commander. I like to focus on my work,” she answered as they made their way to the nearest turbolift, her mind already shifting back to the tasks ahead.

McCallister stood at the aft compartment of the bridge alongside Tomaz and Flemen, reviewing the last sets of reports from Starfleet Intelligence about the area they were about to enter.

“The Srivani are going to be the most difficult to deal with,” Tomaz stated from their discussion. “We’ve already adapted our sensors to detect their cloaks and phase variances. However, I’m concerned that these adaptations Voyager made will not be enough.”

“Like everything else, we are using information that is over a quarter of a century old,” Flemen stated. “I’m not so keen on having them placing hot needles in my brain or ageing me.”

“Another reason why I want the squadron working in pairs or a trio is so we can support one another in case we ever have to deal with something like this,” McCallister stated.

“The Bo’mar Sovereignty is going to be one of our biggest barriers,” Flemen commented.

“Yeah, Captain Seven’s little intrusion into their space would have left a bitter taste,” Tomaz stated. 

“Talk to me about the Krenim,” McCallister said. “Bexa thinks they’re worth a shot after she and Taes had saved their colony.”

Flemen pressed a button on the display he was at, and the map of the Kremin Imperium appeared on the screen. “From what we know, their space was under conflict.” With his finger, he circled the area. ” The Krenim have a number of issues with their neighbours, including the Zahl, the Rilner, and the Alsurans.” 

“Great, anyone want to hold a peace summit?” Tomaz suggested.

“Commodore,” Duncan said as he approached the aft section. “We’re about to drop out of the corridor.”

McCallister thanked Duncan before he looked back at Flemen and Tomaz. “Gentlemen, let’s start out small. Go through the database one more time, and give me a list of those governments that Voyager met and left with cordial relationships. I know there are not many, but let’s make some inroads there, especially as-”

“Oh shit!” Duncan grumbled from behind McCallister, interrupting him mid-sentence.

McCallister was shocked to hear Duncan swear, but as he turned himself around, he saw what the new captain of the Odyssey was cursing. 

On the main screen before them was the one thing they were not expecting. A force of Cardassian ships all waiting for them. 

Keli spoke up, looking at McCallister, “Sir, that’s the-”

“Jorrene,” McCallister finished. Straight away, he recognised the hull markings of the ships that had helped them during the Dominion Lost Fleet invasion. “Gul Jacet’s ship.”

“Why on Earth are the Cardassians here?” Duncan asked.

“That’s a good question, Max,” McCallister said.

“Sirs, those ships have raised their shields and are charging their weapons,” Keli announced. 

Duncan didn’t hesitate. “Red alert!”