Amita Choudhary slowly walked the corridors of the Mayflower late at night. She knew that her mind was playing games on her, but there was always an eerie atmosphere when the ship was engaged in night mode. Nearly all of their passengers would be asleep now and the night shift crew were on duty. As such, most systems that weren’t needed were powered down, including a reduction in the lightning. Even with knowing all of that she still found herself feeling wary of her surroundings, the odd creak and moan from the gravity plates or the odd hum from the EPS network made her feel tense.

As leader of this expedition to Archer IV she was looking forward to their chance to actually be on solid ground and begin building a new home world. This expedition was one she was extremely happy to be involved with. Already Starfleet had sent two ships ahead, filled with a number of researchers, scientists and engineers to Archer IV. Their primary goal was to set up a temporary base of operations and to begin identifying locations for colonisation. It would be Amita’s job to work with the civilians who would be building a new life for themselves on Archer IV. She would temporarily hold the powers of a governor as she was the senior civilian expedition leader. Many of those she would be leading would be workers assigned to help with the construction of the colony and others who would support them including doctors, nurses, teachers (children were also part of her expedition), skilled labourers, etc. All of them volunteered for the chance to immigrate to this new world and now their hopes and dreams were only days away from becoming a reality. Actually thinking about walking on the surface of a new planet was a buzz in itself that helped her forget her fears about the ship in night mode. 

Over five years had passed since Earth had established a deep space colony, as such Archer IV would be one of the first. It had been discovered by Enterprise four years ago and had been named in honour of Captain Jonathan Archer.  Since its discovery, the United Earth Parliament and Starfleet Command have been eager to return to the planet and make something of it. Archer IV was too valuable for Earth not to declare it as part of its Commonwealth. High deposits of valuable alloys and deuterium had been found on the planet as well as trace amounts of dilithium crystals. Starfleet was keen to lay claim to the planet and prevent others from doing so. However Captain Archer and his crew had discovered the local flora and fauna would give off toxic hallucinogenic pollen that was deadly to most humanoids. Currently it would take too long to completely eradicate the pollen and no one knew what impact that would have on the planet’s ecosystem. As such Starfleet Medical and the Interspecies Medical Exchange Program had been able to devise an antidote that would last up to twenty-four hours for most humanoids. Even with this barrier, Humanity wasn’t prepared to give up such a valuable world.

Right now as she moved down the corridor back to her quarters she smiled at the idea of being on a strange new world in only a couple of weeks’ time. The Mayflower and her sister ship the Haig were Conestoga-class colony ships and were outfitted with warp three engines. Since leaving Earth they had been travelling at a steady pace of warp two point six to reach the Archer system by the middle of March. In a few days’ time, once they reached their new home, the two magnificent vessels would be pulled apart to be used as part of the new colony. She was slightly sad at the prospect of losing the Mayflower; she had become fond of the vessel and had decided that both ships would be remembered in some way. She was considering naming the first settlements after them. Who knows, she thought, maybe one day they would become great cities on the planet?

She squeezed the mug she held in her hands, which contained hot chocolate in it and in the other hand she carried a plate of chocolate digestive biscuits.  They were a luxury treat and naughty habit she had picked up from her husband when they had first met. She approached the door to her cabin and started to think about her husband, whom she had left on Earth. He would be joining her in two months’ time with their eight-year-old daughter. She pushed the door open with her right elbow and walked in to her private sanctuary. Slowly she put her treats down on the bedside cabinet before dropping herself on to her bunk and followed it with a long sigh, she was pleased to finally be able relax. She pulled out the data-tablet she had stored under her pillow and switched it on, loading up the e-book she had started to read the night before. This long trip did have its advantages, as a keen bookworm she was able to catch up on all the books she wanted to read. Tonight she was reading the next chapter of the sleazy romantic novel entitled: Indescribable. As she began to delve into her book she reached out to grab her mug and get one of the biscuits however she soon stopped herself from doing so when she felt the ship drop out of warp. Automatically she put her tablet down with the mug on the bedside cabinet and rushed towards the communications panel by her door. “Bridge report.” She said after hitting the button.

“Captain the Haig has just been hit by weapon’s fire from an unknown enemy. They just took a shot at us too and have destabilised our warp field.” The duty officer responded with.

“Damn it!” She cursed. “Take us to Emergency Condition One and prepare to engage all bulkheads. I’m on my way up!” Choudhary quickly picked up one of the chocolate digestives and stuffed it into her mouth before leaving her cabin; there was no way whoever was attacking them would deprive her of having at least one of them.

Sweat dripped from the captain’s face and covered most of his blue t-shirt as he pushed himself further and further. There was no way he was going to allow Michael to beat him in their daily morning jog, which most recently had turned into a competition to see who could outpace the other. Today he felt he was winning, as the chief engineer seemed to be having difficulty keeping his focus.

“Not slowing down on me are you Michael?” Burton mocked in between breaths.

Stanton gave out a short laugh at the captain’s question. “Not one bit sir, I just don’t want to embarrass you again!”

“Ha!” Burton blurted out and pushed himself to engage in a sprint along the last part of their route down the corridors of E deck. He began moving ahead of the engineer with some ease.

Stanton on the other hand was not having any of it and began to catch up with his superior officer with a lot more ease. He may have been having difficulty focussing but he had noticed he wasn’t sweating as much as the captain. This may be given to the fact he only wore a black vest and matching shorts while the captain had opted for a t-shirt and jogging bottoms that were a lot thicker and slightly heavier to run in. The chief engineer was now matching his captain and was running by his side. They both went around the final corner and saw their finish line ahead: the doors to the mess hall. Standing by them with a stopwatch in her hands was Commander Levesque. 

“Last one there has to get the first round of drinks in for tonight’s game.” Burton shouted as he once again pushed harder and began moving away from Stanton. Soon enough he defeated the engineer at their finish location by a second. 

“Impressive.” Levesque said to both men after they stopped and were getting their breaths back. She handed them both a towel each and showed them their times.

“You almost had me.” Burton admitted to the engineer as they followed Levesque into the mess hall. 

“You cheated by distracting me!” Stanton protested as he wiped his forehead with the towel.

“Captain’s prerogative!” Burton countered back as all three senior officers approached the counter with what Chef Lawson had prepared for the breakfast buffet. Normally at meal times they would have been served in the captain’s mess together but since Burton and Stanton had begun their morning run they had told Challenger’s meal provider not to worry and just to leave enough for them at the counters. “But you do have to get the first round in tonight!” He added.

Stanton just threw his hands up in surrender and nodded to the agreement.

The three senior officers had been sharing their evening meals together (another ritual they all seemed to have started since Challenger’s launch) and would be watching the latest recording of the San Francisco Giants sent to Commander Levesque from her sister. In the past couple of weeks Levesque had persuaded both male officers to join her in watching the sport. Burton had never enjoyed baseball prior, but he did enjoy the time spent getting to know his two senior most officers.

As they grabbed their breakfast the captain paused to look around the busy mess hall. Most of the alpha shift was here getting a bite to eat before their day started. Some were in deep conversations with each other while others were watching what was being projected on the furthest wall. A couple of weeks ago Second Engineer Masuko had supported Nurse Stewart’s proposal of having a weekly movie night. Levesque had agreed to it and Stanton’s people had rigged up a large screen. While they had been in orbit of Denobula, Ensign Hennessey had organised for the ship to receive local media coverage and right now a morning news show was being televised. Burton looked at what they were watching and the programme was recalling the latest headlines involving the Coalition talks. He paused to take in what the female Denobulan news anchor was saying.

“Yesterday Premier Nerlox and key members from all sides of the political spectrum met with Secretary Campbell’s group to discuss Denobula’s return to the negotiation table when talks surrounding the finalisation of the Coalition of Planets’ Compact resume on Earth in a few days’ time. Here’s what the Earth Foreign Secretary had to say about the talks.” She stopped to look off screen as a video clip of Madilyn Campbell appeared as she exited from the Denobulan Chambers of Congress with Andorian Ambassador Magerit at her side. 

“Secretary Campbell, Ambassador Magerit, how did today’s talks go?” A reporter among several dozen asked in a hasty tone before shoving what must have been a microphone in their direction.

Campbell spoke up to answer. “Very well thank you. Meeting the Denobulan people and their elected representatives has been extremely productive. I truly hope that they all can see the benefits of joining us in the talks on Earth.”

Margerit added her opinion too. “I’m confident that the Denobulan people will see that by taking the next step in developing their relationships with their galactic friends we can ensure the shared belief of peaceful collaboration is a worthy goal for all spacefaring civilisations to aspire to.” 

The image quickly returned back to the female news anchor and Lloyd was about to turn around and suggest to his companions they retreat to his private dining hall when he caught the end of what the news anchor was saying in his peripheral vision. As such he turned back to look at it. He would later regret doing that.

“No matter how big of a profile this visit has been for the various representatives, nothing compares to the attention that has been put on legendary starship captain, Lloyd Burton of the Earth ship Challenger.”

A round of cheers soon erupted around the room and Burton groaned inwards to hear what she just said. Legendary? He thought. He had barely commanded the Challenger for a month and they were describing him as legendary! He stood in disbelief and amazement as everyone quietened down to hear what the news reporter was saying as an image of him appeared to the side of her. He didn’t think it was a flattering one. The photographer had caught him with Levesque and Stanton either side of him, arriving at one of many state dinners they had been invited to. All of them were in their dress uniforms.

“Captain Burton, seen here attending last night’s state dinner, has achieved celebrity status among many in the population. Captain Burton, who only recently assumed command of Earth’s third warp five capable starship, was the leader of the Earth teams that helped in the search and rescue after the terrible seismic-quakes that afflicted the colony on Pherflex at the end of last year. The other day Captain Burton, along with other members of his crew, visited the colony to see how they were progressing with the rebuilding effort. Governor Feelox awarded Captain Burton and his MACO commander, who had also been part of the rescue teams, with the Compassion Star Medal in gratitude for their efforts. The Governor went on to ask Captain Burton to share the award with those from his previous ship that had helped out too; this also included sharing the medal with the family of the Starfleet officer who had died while helping trapped children.”

Another round of applause filled the mess hall and Burton felt his cheeks go red. He had hoped that Major Yu’s and his visit to the colony wouldn’t have been made a big deal, especially as returning to the place where Ros, his fiancée, had died. Nevertheless Secretary Campbell insisted on Burton undertaking the trip as a gesture of goodwill in helping with the talks. Now he looked towards Levesque and Stanton who both wore smirks on their faces. Stanton gave him a cheeky wink of approval.

“Not only is the Captain a hero to the Pherflex colonists but since his arrival on Denobula he has been out and about visiting various community groups across the homeworld and engaging with them. Many have said his visits have started a craze, with many of his followers coming being teenagers and young adults. Numerous of his fans have been declaring that he is quite a heartthrob for a non-Denobulan. They either want to be him by joining Starfleet or want to marry him. Captain Burton you certainly rock-”

At that point Burton stopped listening, rolled his eyes and quickly made his way towards the entrance of his private dining hall as more cheers and applause filled the room. His crew were all in support of his efforts. He was completely embarrassed by the entire media hype.  Seconds later, Levesque and Stanton had followed him in and were now sitting down at the table in the centre of the room. The captain sat at the head of the table and could feel his unease plastered across his face. Neither Levesque nor Stanton said anything at first as the three of them settled down to eat their breakfasts. Nevertheless both commanders had grins they were trying to hide.

“Well at least if the Secretary’s mission doesn’t go well we can count on the captain’s groupies to help persuade the Denobulan government to join the Coalition. You’re just as famous like that huge British boy band from the early twenty-first century…oh what were they called?” Stanton inquired after the silence became too much for him to not say anything. He leant over to pick up the glass jug of orange juice that sat in the middle and began filling up three glasses. He looked at Levesque as he finished his remark and passed her the glass he had made for her. Gratefully she took it and her smirk grew, knowing that their captain was slightly mortified by what had just been said. Burton by this time had dropped the fork of bacon he was about to chew on and glared at Michael with a look that could kill. Attempting to act innocently, Stanton looked at his captain as he passed him his glass of orange juice and simply said; “What?” as to say he didn’t know what he had done wrong. “They were huge back then as well, won lots of awards and released billions of albums and were considered heartthrobs too!”

Levesque chuckled at the engineer’s teasing and leant over to place an assuring hand on Burton’s hand that had just held his fork. “Captain I think it’s a good thing that you’re having a positive influence on the Denobulan public. This is a big step for their civilisation to be joining a wider family and as you know they’re big on family values. They need to know they can truly trust us beyond us being trading partners and sharing scientific information. Your work here is contributing to the success of those talks that Secretary Campbell is leading.”

For the second time that day Burton rolled his eyes and looked to his first officer after almost burning a hole into his chief engineer from the glare he had given him. “Thank you Commander, I didn’t know these intercultural visits would become…” He paused not knowing what to call it. “this!” He said, gesturing with his hands in no particular direction. 

Secretary Campbell had requested for him and the crew to do a lot of publicity visits to various events, from touring schools, hospitals, research laboratories, manufacturing warehouses, museums, shops and art galleries. That was on top of attending meetings with various politicians and community groups. She had hoped it would broaden the message they were trying to share with the Denobulans. An “on the ground approach was needed”, she had said, she wanted them speaking with the regular population and not just the politicians.

Burton then looked back at Stanton; being British he had gone through the British education system and knew his history well, including knowing which boy band he was referring to. “And Commander, don’t you ever compare me to any boy band from the twenty-first century unless you want to be spending a week scrubbing the plasma exhausts with a toothbrush!”

Stanton chuckled and simply responded with, “Aye sir!” before sipping on his orange juice, still smirking at the fact he may not have won this morning’s jog but he had won another round of winding his new captain up.

Ben-Ami placed her hand on the crewman’s shoulder as she guided him from sickbay; she had just spent the last hour in a therapy session talking through how he was taken by the Orions. She had spent the last few weeks using her listening and therapeutic skills to help the crew, for the most part the traumas were short lived, the crew were resilient, a compliment to the training they undertook with Starfleet – but at the end of the day they were still Human, and still fallible and intrinsically affected by problems they took great pains to hide from the outside world. 

“Thank you Ro’fa” said the crewman as he crossed the threshold of sickbay, he wiped away the last tear and smiled bravely at her, “Thank you so much” he hugged her.

She returned the hug; sometimes professional and clinical detachment had to be pushed aside when a person needed that human contact, that reassurance that could only be conveyed via a hug.

“Evan, you’re doing well. It’ll take time, but you’ll get there.” she let him go, and watched him walk away. Once he was gone she stepped back into sickbay and locked the door behind her, walking over to the main table she lifted a data-slate and pressed the record button.

“Therapy Session Eleven – Crewman Evan Davies. – Ro’fa Ben-Ami. Penultimate session of cognitive behavioural therapy. Final goal setting has been set, Evan has learnt the coping mechanisms and strata-based interventions from our sessions. He is no longer plagued with recurring nightmares of Orion slavers, although he does still have issues regarding the kidnapping; he has learnt that focusing on the past is not beneficial to his future development. Mood diary completed, and shows labile mood with poor affect.”

“Mental State Examination- Appearance- Well-dressed man of twenty-four, excellent personal hygiene and dress. Appropriate for time, location and intent. No signs of inappropriate dressing indicative of formal thought or mood disorder. No overt signs of substance misuse. Rapport- Fully cooperative, easily established rapport. No attempt to reserve congruence.”

“Behaviour- Congruence easily established and maintained throughout session. Rapid eye-movement when discussing matters of emotional intelligence and awareness. Mild non-clinical dyskinesia is evident by two issues of choreoathetosis, as mentioned in previous therapy records. Prescribed procyclodine-decanoate previously was reduced from 20 in the last session. Query psychomotor retardation? Parkinsonian facial akinesia? Mood- Previous alexithymic presentation no longer present. Evan presents as euthymic. Affect- Congruence established and maintained throughout. Non-verbal communication in-keeping with expressed thoughts and feelings. Previous blunted effects are no longer present. Full emotional responsive range apparent and utilised appropriately.  

“Subjectively- ‘Feeling on a pretty even keel. Objectively- Signs of liability of mood. No indication of formal mood disorder.  Speech- Spontaneous and appropriate. Staggered word choice and some substitution are evident, although minor and due to linguistic background. Thought Process- Normal; quantity, tempo, flow and form. No signs of flight of ideas or pressure of speech. No abnormality in thought formation and implementation.  Thought Content- No delusions, phobias or preoccupations. Slightly overvalued ideas relating to relationships with fellow crewmembers. No sign of formal thought disorder.”

“Perceptions- No sign of hallucinations, pseudo-hallucinations, illusions. Cognition- No issues with alertness, orientation, attention, memory, visuospatial functioning, language and executive functions. No signs of cognitive impairment.” 

“Conclusion- Remaining CBT session shall bring to an end previous discussions and lead to Evan having the coping mechanisms to deal with his issues without relying on professional intervention. Diagnosis – Adjustment Disorder F-three-two-one-point-x.”

Kefira set down the data-slate and ran her fingers through her hair, she then pressed the communication panel on the desk, “Bridge, this is Ro’fa Ben-Ami. Could you ask the Captain to pop-down to sickbay?”

“Yes ma’am, however the captain isn’t on duty for another half an hour.” Came the response from a female officer.

“When he is available then.” Ben-Ami said. “Sickbay out.”

Burton had been told of his Chief Medical Officer’s request to see him when he had turned up on the bridge after finishing breakfast. Before visiting the bridge he had returned to his quarters so he could have a shower and get changed into a fresh clean uniform. He was surprised to hear that Ben-Ami was up so early. Approaching the double doors of sickbay, he tapped the side button to open them. He walked in and found the good doctor sitting at one of the side stations, typing up a report of some type.

“Morning Kefira, you wanted to see me?” He wondered as he stopped less than a meter away from her.

Kefira smiled at the ship’s commander, “Yom tov Captain” she gestured for him to come in, “I thought you’d want to know I have completed my full after-action psych reports”

“That’s good to hear.” He responded. “What are the results?” 

She looked at the data-tablet, “Everyone who was abducted has gone through a full psychological debrief, and the effects of the assault will have far reaching effects on Challenger, but there is one person I am quite concerned about, this crewmember is probably more affected by the assault than any other, but feels he cannot come to me and talk about it.”

“Who?” Burton asked concerned about this matter as he crossed his arms and frowned slightly. Already he was going through the list of those that had been kidnapped and he was pretty certain they had all gone to see her.

Be-Ami looked solemnly at her superior officer, “That would be you Captain.”

Burton was quite taken back by the remark. “M-me?” He stuttered out. “What…where…why…you’ve lost me Kefira.” He said perplexed at trying to understand where she was coming from.

“Yes you” she looked at him, “My remit is not only the physical and mental health of the crew, but also of the most vital member of the crew…the Captain.” she stood up and lent against the edge of a work-surface, “You are the Captain of one of the first Warp five starships, you were selected from many candidates to serve as the embodiment of Earth and our societies, it’s a lot of pressure to put on anyone’s shoulders, and then on your first mission to have your ship attacked and some of your crew abducted and brutalised…well it’s not just something you can take in your stride and chalk down to experience” she leant forward slightly, “Captain, I am the only person on this ship to whom you can talk about this type of thing without fearing you are revealing too much of your true self to your subordinates, I am in and out of your chain of command at the same time. I am concerned that this attack has affected you more than you realise.”

“Well when you put it like that…” Burton started off with. In all honesty he hadn’t taken time to sit down and reflect on what had happened and the implications it had on him. “In all honesty I was more focussed on getting our crew back and completing this mission.”

She nodded, “I can understand that Captain, but by not allowing yourself time to come to terms with what has happened.” she placed her hand on his arm, “You are under more pressure than any member of this crew can understand, but you can always talk to me” she smiled at him and added with a laugh, “After all I’m the only one on the ship who can overrule you”

“Thank you Kefira, I’ll take your words on board and take some to think about it all.” He said with a reassuring smile. He noted the gentle hand gesture on his arm and he wasn’t too sure how to take it. “Is there anything else?” He asked. 

The two officers went on to talk about a few other matters regarding those that had been kidnapped and when the captain was satisfied with everything he needed to know he left sickbay and returned to the bridge to resume his morning duties.

Earth Embassy, Denobula

“Again Premier Nerlox this is great news! One I know many of my colleagues will be happy to hear about.” Campbell said as she looked at the large screen before her.

“The success of persuading Congress to hold a referendum is down to you and your team Madam Secretary. I’ve never seen Speaker of the House Groznik being persuaded by someone outside of his party, let alone a non-Denobulan.” The Denobulan leader spoke from the cosy confines of his office in the Denobulan capital city. “In the meantime I will instruct Ambassador Vesneki to attend the talks and await confirmation from the referendum if the Denobulan people wish to join the Coalition.”

Currently Secretary Campbell was leaning against the edge of the sofa within the room that the Earth Embassy had assigned to her to use as an office and meeting room during her stay on Denobula. The plush and elegant styles of furniture in the room were of the similar style used in Prime Minister Samuels’ office back on Earth. 

Delighted to hear that Vesneki, the Denobulan ambassador to Earth, would be returning to the negotiation table, Campbell carried on her conversation with the Denobulan Premier, whom she knew so well. “It’s a start Norlox; we still have several meetings scheduled for the rest of today and tomorrow that I wish for us to keep. Are you happy for us to carry on?”

“Of course Madilyn, I enjoy having you back on Denobula. In fact, Marlisa and I are having a family dinner tonight, why don’t you all join us tonight to celebrate what we’ve achieved so far?” 

“That sounds wonderful Norlox, I’ll tell the others.” Campbell said, still smiling.

“And invite Captain Burton and his senior staff too. His efforts with engaging with the Denobulan people have been received in the highest of esteem.” Nerlox added between breaths. “I must go; I have a meeting with the cabinet shortly. I’ll have my office send details over to the Embassy about tonight. Good day Madam Secretary.”

“And to you Mister Premier.” Campbell said with a slight bow of her head before the screen went blank. As soon as it did she turned round to see her husband and the rest of her staff standing to one side, all with similar big grins on their faces too.

 “Congratulations Madam Secretary.” Jane Hennessey, her deputy chief of staff, said first.

 “Thank you,” Campbell replied in her direction before looking at them all. “To you all, we couldn’t have achieved this big landmark victory without your hard work too. Let’s make sure we pass on the good news to Captain Burton and his crew too.”

There was a slight grunt from her husband and when she looked at him her expression changed from one of delight to one of pure irritation. 

“You’re really going to consult with Starfleet’s latest pinup boy?” He said.

Madilyn looked at the rest of her staff. “Guys we need a minute.”

Jane Hennessey replied with a simple, “Of course,” and ushered everyone else out of the room before closing the door behind her. 

Madilyn watched as they filed out of the room and then looked at her husband; who was now wearing a similar expression to hers: one of annoyance. She crossed her arms against her chest as she walked over to him. “You can’t talk to me like that.” Madilyn told him in a firm voice as she moved to stand face to face with him.

Robert had his hands originally in his trouser pockets; he pulled out his left one and waved it slightly in defence to his side as he spoke. “What? I can’t tell you the truth?”

“That was inappropriate and it makes the staff uncomfortable.” She argued back.

He huffed. “Oh come on, I didn’t say anything none of them were thinking-”

Madilyn didn’t let him finish as she began talking over the top of him in a more raised voice, forcing him to stop talking. “It’s not just what you said; it’s also how you said it.”

“Oh, so how I speak to my wife is now a problem?” He threw back. “Listen I’m your husband and if I can’t-”

Again she interrupted him. “Yes that’s right Robert, you’re my husband. That’s the problem. It’s always been the problem Robert.”

There was a moment of silence as both took in what she had verbally punched at him. Robert now had placed his hands on his hips and then pointed his left hand towards her. “I have supported you,” He started in a lower tone of voice, “I have worked for you, I have backed you up your entire political career.” He said, now raising his voice at her. “And I did it because I know how important-”

 “And this can’t be seen as an extension of our marriage Rob.” She snapped back. “That comment there about Burton was out of line and unprofessional. What the hell do you think that looks like to everyone else when the Foreign Secretary’s husband, who is also her chief of staff, is making comments like that? The lines are getting blurred, Rob. In here you’re my chief of staff first, remember that!”

“Madilyn do you hear yourself?” Robert said after another moment of silence between them. “Starfleet is taking away the hard work you and I have put in to this administration. You’ve been attending meetings non-stop to persuade these lazy politicians to join us in something that will be far greater than anyone thought possible while Burton is lapping up all the media hype and attention from the real work. This Coalition has no recourse yet Madilyn; we have no allies, no infrastructure. I mean we can’t do anything to keep the likes of Margerit and anyone else inline.” 

“That’s the idea Robert.” Madilyn countered with. “You just said it yourself, we need allies. Putting this coalition together is going to be hard work, but once the rules are in place we will have a better chance at making things run smoother. In the meantime we need the likes of Captains Burton, Archer and Hernandez going out there and proving to the others that we are serious, and by we I mean Earth. We need to show them all that Earth means business and that Humanity has a lot to offer the intergalactic stage. So don’t belittle whatever Burton is doing, it’s helping. Are we clear?”

“Is that Madilyn my wife speaking or the Foreign Secretary speaking?” Robert asked.

“Both.” She snapped firmly.

“Fine.” He said and soon left the room with a temper. 

Madilyn turned on her heels and walked over to the large bay windows, annoyed with herself and how her husband had just been. So much for ensuring peace with other nations if she couldn’t keep the peace at home she mused. 

Challenger NX-03

Pouring the last glass with amaretto, Burton placed three ice cubes in it and passed it over to Callahan who was seated around the rectangle-shaped table in the captain’s private dining mess.

Along with Commanders Levesque and Stanton, the four most senior officers on board Challenger had retreated to the small hall for a nightcap. They, along with other members of the senior staff had spent the evening on the planet below joining Secretary Campbell and others at Premier Nerlox’s official residence for a celebratory meal to commemorate the Denobulan Congress’ agreement to hold a referendum over the planet’s admission to the Coalition of Planets. Admiral Gardner had already praised their efforts earlier on in the day. The entire evening had sailed smoothly and now they were able to rest a bit. The rest of their day had been busy with further interaction with the Denobulans. Secretary Campbell had worked them all hard all day and all evening. 

After their return to Challenger the captain had invited those who had joined him for a drink before they went to bed. Yu, Kefira and Alcott had declined the offer, all citing they wanted an early night while Ensign Hennessey had not joined them on the surface. The Chief Communications Officer had requested to stay on board and finish off the latest diagnostic on the communication array. It was a poor excuse as Burton had heard that Ned’s former wife was Secretary Campbell’s deputy chief of staff. Burton had agreed to the ensign’s request on the grounds he would also assume command in his absence. The captain thought the shove into the centre chair might do him some good too.      

“Cheers!” Burton said, raising his glass. The four of them all slightly knocked their glasses together, making a clinking noise, before taking a sip.

The four of them were quiet for a moment before the captain spoke up again. “Have any of you heard from anyone back at home?” He inquired as he leant back in his chair and got comfortable in it. Deep down the captain knew that everyone would have heard something from Earth in the last few weeks. However, the captain wanted to think something else was going on besides what they were currently engaged with. So trying to think of something besides the talks would be a welcome change for the captain. 

Callahan replied. “I spoke with the wife last night sir.” He said as he placed his own glass down on the table. 

Since Challenger’s launch, Burton had found he shared a number of traits with this man, besides the armoury attribute, they both enjoyed a lot of sport. On occasions they would share meals to discuss the latest sports news coming from Earth. This had led to them sharing personal information about their home life. Pleased at the news, Burton turned his attention to Callahan. “How are Laura and the children?” He asked.

“Well thank you sir.” He replied with a sincere smile and not offering any more information than that. 

With an expression like that, Burton had summarised that Callahan had ended his conversation with his wife negatively. She had been against him returning to Starfleet and was quite bitter at the way he left her. Burton turned to the other two officers before making it any more uncomfortable for the armoury officer. “And what about you two?” He inquired and he looked to Stanton first. “Have you heard from Alex?” He asked, referring to Stanton’s other-half.

The young engineer smiled for a moment, before answering. “We’ve spoken several times on subspace. He’s good, he’s got himself a dog. He’s been… well… um… frustrated that I’ve told him not to rush out here, after the… incident with the Orions,” he said, rubbing his neck a little. “Maybe during Ezrah’s absence we might have a use for another pilot, though. You managed to get one senior officer from the Discovery, so you might as well make it a pair.”

Burton chuckled slightly at the engineer’s remarks. Ensign Alcott had requested a leave of absence in the near future. His father had recently been diagnosed with Clark’s Syndrome. Alcott’s father wouldn’t be showing any signs of his condition yet, but the young pilot had placed a request to return to Earth. He wanted to spend some time with his father and the rest of his family before his condition got any worse. 

Burton scratched the back of his head, a trait he did when he was thinking as he pondered Stanton’s question. “I suppose there’s no harm in putting the request in.” He finally said. He knew that Stanton’s partner was a skilled pilot. “The only issue I think Starfleet will have with it is having a large number of experienced officers on one ship.”

“There’s no harm in asking though.” Callahan remarked.

“True.” Burton said in agreement. “I’ll send the request to Starfleet in the morning.”

“I’m sure he’d be happy to take the job, if Starfleet is willing to part with him,” Stanton replied, with a small smile, as he thought about that possibility. While in most cases wanting a loved one aboard the ship wouldn’t have worked out, one of the perquisites of dating another officer was sometimes getting to share a duty assignment; this almost made up for the vast majority of instances where they hadn’t been allowed to serve together. Little did anyone there know, though, that Alex had not been one of Ezrah’s instructors, but had been assigned to investigate a possibly-illicit relationship between the cadet and his actual instructor: Commander Carlisle. If he would end up replacing Ezrah at the helm, it would certainly be an irony.

“Nicole, have you spoken to any of your family?” Burton asked next as he turned his attention to his first officer.

“Hmm? Oh no, not really…just my siblings Claudia and Elijah. I’m the black sheep of the family.” She quickly explained to the perplexed faces before her. Actually black sheep wasn’t the most accurate description. The bain of their existence on the other hand seemed more appropriate at least the way her mother regarded her. They hadn’t always had an adversarial relationship but after her brother-in-law Cooper had become a Starfleet consultant (at Nicole’s encouragement) her mother’s wrath fell on her. Needless to say, after that, she no longer felt completely welcome at home. “But they are both doing well; Elijah was complaining about fatherhood. And Claudia well, she is continuing to spread her red wine empire across the planet.”

Burton showed interest with her last comments. “Well make sure when we’re back home you get us some to try out. We could help her extend her business to the galactic stage!” 

“What about yourself sir?” asked Callahan in between sips of his drink.

“I’ve spoken to my brothers. Roman is with Columbia on its mission to Rigel while my other brother, Seth, his ship the Republic, is heading to meet my sister’s ship at Archer Four to help out with the colonisation process.” Burton explained. “Both the Republic and Voyager are supporting the construction of the first settlements as well as doing some extra research on the planet.”

The public address announcer beeped, indicating someone was being paged.

“Captain Burton to the bridge. Emergency. Captain Burton to the bridge. Emergency.” It was the voice of Ensign Hennessy, he sounded tense.

Burton sighed inwards and rose from his seat. He approached the nearest communications panel and tapped it. “Burton here. What is it Ned?”

“We’re picking up a distress call from a convoy of colony ships. Most of the message is garbled, but from the context it sounds like they’re under attack.”

Automatically everyone around the table stood up and began heading for the door. They know what their captain would expect of them. “Lay in a course and prepare to leave orbit Ensign. I’m on my way up and get me Secretary Campbell by the time I’m on the bridge. Burton out.” He replied and hit the communications panel to swiftly leave. Leaving the dining hall, he followed the others on to the nearest lift. 

Once more unto the breach.

Challenger had now been at high warp for almost three hours and was quickly approaching its destination. On the bridge of the NX-class ship Captain Burton stepped out of his office and made his way over to his chair in the centre of the room. He had just spent the last hour updating Secretary Campbell on what was happening while she remained on Denobula. Thankfully she had understood why he had left her and her staff there when the distress call had come in. She had even remarked she would ask for another ship to return them home if it came down to it.

“Report?” He asked, wanting to know the latest.

“We are only two minutes away from the colony ships sir.” spoke Ensign Alcott from the helm. 

Lieutenant Commander Callahan then interjected. “Long range sensors are detecting a Vulcan cruiser on a similar intercept course sir.”

Burton turned to his chief armoury officer. “Which ship?” He asked

“The T’Paal.” He responded after double-checking over the readings on his console. “She’s a Suurok-class combat cruiser.”

Burton nodded as a sign of acknowledgement with the information. He hoped the Vulcan ship was responding as well and wouldn’t just pass by. He knew that as part of the Coalition Compact they would be expected and required to respond. Even though the Compact would not be signed for another week or so, Burton hoped the Vulcan ship would still respond to a distress call; the alliance between Earth and Vulcan still remained. He turned to face the main viewer and wondered what was happening with their colony ships. They would know in two minutes.

Sitting back in his chair the Challenger‘s captain smoothed out his uniform. “Tactical alert.” He ordered calmly, knowing that they would probably find themselves in a dangerous situation in a moment. The bridge’s lights dimmed and the screens all around switched to their red and yellow displays as per the tactical alert protocol.

“Coming out of warp.” Alcott announced as he looked up from the helm and starred at the main viewer to show the ship slowing down.

Burton turned in his chair to look at his first officer, “Commander, begin scanning for the colony ships.”

“Scanning…got them Captain, bearing oh-thirty mark two-nine-nine.” Levesque announced bringing the sensor display up on the view screen. “Other than the ships themselves, I’m not reading much out there.”

“Ned, see if you can get in touch with them.” Burton ordered as he looked at what Levesque had displayed on the main screen.

“Yes, captain,” the communications officer answered as he busied himself with the subspace radio.

Tapping the intercom button on his chair, Captain Burton opened a channel. “Bridge to Major Yu, prepare your MACOs for a boarding party.”

“Affirmative Captain, I’ll have Lieutenant al-Fayyad prep a shuttle and Iyer and Hardberger’s teams ready for transporter insertion.” Replied the MACO leader. 

A beep at the armoury station went off and straight away Callahan spoke up. “Sir, I’m detecting a non-allied ship in the area, quickly approaching us.”

“Put it up.” Lloyd ordered as he stood to see who was out there. Was it a ship that attacked the colony ships or was it some poor soul who had shared the same fate as the others?

The view screen changed to show a green vessel making its way towards them, it had an almost bird-like appearance to it with its nacelles outstretched above it like wings.

Burton glared at it for a second before speaking up. “Can we identify it?”

“Hmm, not yet…” Levesque mused; too engrossed in flipping through the various sensor bands to notice she said anything. Quickly giving up on the passive sensors, the Science Officer spun her chair around and looked into the science station viewer. “By the silhouette and the energy readings…Captain that’s a Romulan ship…Bird of Prey by the looks of it.”

“Open a channel.” Burton commanded his communication’s officer. Inside of him he started to feel a sense of anxiety. The presence of a Romulan ship normally brought bad news. He had been briefed by Starfleet Intelligence on a list of races to keep an eye out for, who to see as a potential ally and those to avoid outright. The Romulans sat on that last list. “But keep trying to get the colony ships.”

“Aye, sir,” Hennessy replied toggling a switch on his console. “Channel open, sir.”

The moment he got the all clear to speak to their guest, the captain spoke up. “Romulan vessel, this is Captain Lloyd Burton of the Earth ship Challenger. Please state your intentions in this unclaimed area of space.”

Furthermore, from Starfleet Intelligence’s briefing, not much was known about the Romulans besides the encounters that Captain Archer and Enterprise had with them. They were extremely hostile, territorial and xenophobic. It was believed they were the ones responsible for the drone attacks earlier on in the year. Burton knew that Captain Archer had nearly lost Enterprise a few years back after hitting one of their minefields. A fate himself wished to avoid. But he also knew that from that engagement their territorial claims were what drove Archer to make quick decisions to ensure his ship survived. Not giving them an inch to take over such claims this time, Burton wasn’t going to let them scare him off. Was that the right decision to make? Could he truly avoid them while trying to save the convoy?

The channel remained open for a few seconds but there was no reply from the Romulans.

“Get a weapons’ lock on them.” Burton ordered Callahan after signalling for the channel to be cut. “Thoughts everyone?”

“Captain, we know Romulan ships have technology comparable to our own, and probably more advanced. I suggest we try to avoid a firefight… at least until the Vulcans get here.” Levesque said a bit vexed at the thought of needing the Vulcans’ help.

She made a good point, Burton thought as he considered his options. He was about to order Alcott to back them off from the Romulans when another alarm went off at the armoury station and he knew that sound too well.

“They’re charging their weapons!” Callahan announced a few seconds before the Romulans fired at the Challenger. The ship rocked from the fire; thankfully the ship was ready for the first volley of fire.

Walking back to his chair the captain sat back down. “Take evasive action away from the colony sips and return fire!” He commanded as he gripped on to the arms of his chair.

Challenger quickly rolled onto its starboard side as the Romulan Bird-of-Prey moved over them as it tried to come back around for another pass. Callahan fired several shots from the ship’s aft phase cannons and a spread of photonic torpedoes. They hit their destination but fizzled against the enemy’s energy shields.

“Bring us back around.” Burton ordered as the Romulans fired back at them. “Target their weapons and engines; hit them with everything we’ve got!” 

The impressive NX-class did what looked like a belly roll combined with a head flip, as the weapons came into range of its target a number of torpedoes were fired followed by streaks of phase cannon fire. The Romulan ship tried to avoid the barrage, but was pummelled by a majority of the fire. It returned fire with its green bolts from its forward plasma cannons, each fire scoring direct hits against the Earth ship. 

On the bridge of the Challenger the ship dealt with heavy fire as it rocked harder than before. The final hit must have been a direct one to the power systems as an almighty whirl of energy exploded from the helm control forcing Ensign Alcott out of his chair and to fall on the floor. Burton got up from his chair to see the injured pilot.

Burton knelt down beside him and found him to be conscious but with a dazed look on his face. He had slight burns to his face and right arm. Two crewmembers from the aft stations joined him to help him. “Get him to sickbay.” Burton ordered them and then realised he had no one to take the helm. He naturally made his way over and sat down at the controls. He hadn’t flown a starship in a long time, however he had spent many days in the simulator back on Earth learning the basics for the NX-class. Instinctively he looked over the controls to see what was working. He took the ship off from automated support and went straight into manual control, using the sensors to show him where to go. He noticed the impulse engines had been slightly damaged and weren’t at hundred-percent. He pushed the engines as far as they would go and then set a course to bring the ship around so that Callahan could get a clear shot on the aggressor. However, in a blink of an eye the Vulcan combat cruiser finally arrived alongside Challenger. It also opened fire on the Romulan ship, scoring a number of hits. Working together, the two allied ships began to make the Romulans feel very uncomfortable. Realising they were outnumbered and now outgunned, the dark green ship flew away at high warp, retreating to the unknown.

Burton gave out a sigh of relief when he watched the Romulan ship head to warp. In a second he realised they still had to save the colony ships. He brought the ship around and headed towards the drifting colony ships. “Nicole, try and see where those Romulans were heading.”

“Aye.” The Science Officer replied, brushing a few stray strands of hair out of her eyes. Quickly spinning her chair back to the scope, she tried to get a good reading on the Romulans’ warp signature, a task made far more difficult than normal as the scope blinked out. Slapping the console a few times, she prayed that the malfunction was simply a loose connection rather than actual damage. After giving up on the hope of fixing a few buttons, she tried to get what information she could using the short-range sensors. “Sorry Captain, I’ve got a basic heading, but that’s about it. Beyond about an AU, if they made a course correction we’d never know.” 

“Ned, coordinate with the Vulcans-” Burton was interrupted when he noticed another ship dropping out of warp on the display before him. The ship registered as another Earth ship, a J-type cargo ship named the E.C.S. Raven. “What are they doing here?” He asked himself.

“Shall I raise the cargo ship, sir?” Hennessy asked but then he got a message through. “They’re offering to help sir.”

“Tell the Raven thank you but stand by so we can coordinate our rescue efforts with the Vulcans.” Burton ordered. “Commander Levesque the ship is yours, I’m leading a team over to the colony ships to see what happened and what help they need.”

“Aye Captain.” She replied; turning over her station to Ensign Habiba and taking up her own position in the command chair.

Burton tapped the communications panel on top of the helm. “Burton to Stanton.”

“Go ahead Captain.”

“Meet me in the shuttlebay with a repair team commander.” He ordered.

“Aye sir, but the repair team is going to be short-handed sir. We’ve got critical repairs to Challenge to make.” advised Stanton.

“Spare whoever you can, Michael. Burton out.” Burton then tapped the button again. “Bridge to sickbay.”

“Ben-Ami here.”

Knowing he may regret asking the next question, Burton took a breath and spoke. “What’s your status down there?”

“Six injured, nothing serious.” She replied.

“Excellent. Then Ro-fa, have Ensign Stewart meet me in the launch bay with a full med kit and prepare sickbay for mass traumas.” He ordered.

“Understood, we’ll be ready.”

Burton closed the channel and looked over to his armoury officer. “John you’re with me too.” He indicated as he made his way over to the lift with his Armoury Officer in tow. From one mess they were about to enter another one.

“Here you go sir.” 

Ensign Niall Stewart looked up after zipping up his field jacket to see a MACO soldier offering him a phase pistol. “What’s that for?” He asked the younger looking soldier.

The soldier looked puzzled and wasn’t too sure how to answer the question. “Umm, your protection sir?”

Challenger’s Nursing Officer and senior field medic examined the weapon in the MACO’s hand and then looked at the markings on the soldier’s uniform. He wore the rank of Private and his name read: L. Jenkins. Niall had yet to get to know the entire MACO unit, however this individual had deep brown eyes and his hair was all swiped over to the left side with a parting on the right hand-side. He looked almost twenty-one maybe twenty-two. 

“Well Private Jenkins I think we can hold off on that. We’re boarding Earth ships and I don’t plan to fire on any of my own kind.” Stewart responded quickly. He was a bit irked that a young soldier was telling him what to do. Stewart had completed his Starfleet training probably before this guy had enlisted with the MACOs.

“Actually it’s standard procedure for all landing parties to be armed with a phase pistol, Niall.” Said a voice next to him. 

Stewart turned to see his friend Sakura Masuko doing up her field jacket before taking the pistol out of Jenkins’ hands and almost slapping it into place on Stewart’s thigh. 

“Why are we arming ourselves before boarding Earth colony ships?” He asked in slight protest.

Lieutenant Masuko picked up the rucksack that contained her tools inside. “You never know they may have been boarded by these Romulans or you may need to use that pistol to cut your way through something.” She offered. “I promise you Niall unless the crew has turned into zombies you hopefully won’t be firing against any of them.”

He rolled his eyes at her and looked at the Second Engineer. “I’m going to hold you to that!”

At that moment Captain Burton entered the locker room where the entire boarding party had been getting themselves sorted. Commander Stanton, Lieutenant Commander Callahan and Major Yu followed him in. It was obvious they were ready as they were all in their field jackets along with having phase pistols and scanners attached to their hips. Major Yu had her standard MACO gear while Commander Stanton carried his rucksack that was most likely filled with the tools he would require over there. It was also obvious they had met briefly to discuss how they would operate the mission before as they all had a confident look about themselves.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” The captain said grabbing their attention. Stewart had only spoken to Captain Burton on a few occasions but he had heard the captain ask Doctor Ben-Ami to have him assigned to the team, something he was proud of. “We’ll be journeying over to the colony ships shortly to determine their status and render as much assistance as we can.” He paused as he looked around the room. “Due to the damage they have sustained we won’t be using the transporter yet. We’ll break off into two teams. The Mayflower, the lead ship, has reported they have sustained the most injuries and damage while the Haig reports minor injuries, that’s particularly down to the fact they are carrying less people as they need the room for most of the colony’s equipment and supplies. Lieutenant Commander Callahan and Major Yu will take a group of MACOs to secure the Haig and help those who are injured. Commander Stanton and I will lead the team to head to the Mayflower. Report to your department heads for your team assignments, except Ensign Stewart who will be with my team.” Burton stated. 

After some discussions the boarding parties were giving their assignments and were making their way towards the launch bay. Captain Burton led his team into Shuttlepod One that was now pretty cramped with a team of seven crewmembers. Burton had decided to take the helm and was eager to launch. Once the green light had been given for them to get underway, the captain had looked over to Shuttlepod Two where Commander Callahan sat at the controls of the craft. They both smiled at each other before the bay doors opened up beneath them and they were set free from Challenger. 

Ensign Stewart looked over to Lieutenant Masuko who sat next to him and she gave him a wide grin and she inclined her head towards the right, motioning towards the fact that he was seated next to Private Jenkins. She gave him a look that indicated something mischievous however he ignored the look. He turned to the MACO, who was one of three soldiers assigned to their team. “So Private Jenkins, what does the ‘L’ stand for?” He asked in a whisper.

Jenkins turned to look at the nurse. “Liam sir.”

Stewart smiled at him and extended his right hand. “Pleased to meet you Liam, I’m Niall.” He said as they shook hands. “I owe you one for making sure I don’t look like an ass in front of the captain for not being properly equipped on my first rescue mission with him.”

“Anytime sir.” He replied as he let go of his hand.

“And do me a favour, drop calling me sir. You make me feel old.” Stewart explained, still whispering. “I’m only twenty-six.”

Nodding, the soldier responded in a low voice. “Understood…Niall.” He said with a smirk on his face. “And for the record I never considered you old. I’m only twenty-two.”

“Good-” Stewart started but was interrupted by the captain.

“Here we go everyone.” Burton announced as he flew the shuttlepod around the Conestoga-class colony ship. The shuttlepod slowed down as it approached one of the ship’s outer hatches and latched on around it. Burton switched off the engines and began the process of securing the ship with the airlock. The computer cycle went through its normal routine and a green light appeared on the shuttle’s ceiling to indicate that a secure air-tight connection had been made. “Let’s go.” The captain ordered as he led the team off their shuttlepod.

S.S. Mayflower BF-21

Moments later they had gone through the Mayflower’s airlock and were now on one of its decks that was darkened out without main power. The deck itself was blazing with emergency blue lightning along the floor. The odd light flickered off here and there. Burton continued to lead the team forward with Stanton and Stewart either side of him while the MACOs flanked them all with Maruko taking scans as they marched forward.

“Halt!” Someone shouted down the corridor at them.

Burton did as he told and raised his hands slightly to show they meant no harm. “I’m Captain Lloyd Burton of the Earth ship Challenger. We’re here to help you!”

Bright white lights covered the landing party from the direction the voice came from and it didn’t take long for them to realise that they were torchlights hitting them. The sound of footprints making their way towards them could be heard and soon they came face to face with their hosts. An Indian woman led the group; she wore civilian attire and held a torch and an EM-Pistol in either hand. Once she saw their guests were Human she lowered her weapon and torch and nodded to those with her to do the same.

“I’m Captain Amita Choudhary of the Mayflower. I’m glad to see you!” She said with a genuine smile.

“Once they had forced us out of warp they just sat there, circling like vultures.” Captain Amita Choudhary said as she finished recalling the Romulan attack against her two colony ships to Captain Burton. The two of them were now walking down one of the few corridors of the Mayflower that didn’t have someone injured lying across the floor or something that was broken. Choudary stopped walking and looked up at Burton. “Can I share something with you, captain to captain?” 

Burton nodded after stopping to face her. “Sure.”

“I feel like an idiot, I should have agreed to the Starfleet escort we were offered.” She shared, realising she had made an error in judgement. “I was too damn proud to accept it, wanting to prove we didn’t need Starfleet.”

Burton smiled at her. He wondered how many more civilian captains would be saying something similar to that in the near future. “It’s okay. The main thing is you haven’t suffered any fatalities and we’re now here to help.”

Choudary nodded in a humble manner. “And I am grateful for your arrival but I have to say I wasn’t expecting one of the prides of Starfleet to turn up along with a Vulcan combat cruiser and my first officer said an Earth Cargo Ship has arrived too? Talk about the cavalry turning up!”

“Well let’s not waste any more time on getting both the Mayflower and Haig back on the road.” Burton offered as they continued on their stroll. “Challenger along with our other two friends out there can help get your ships up and running again in no time. And I’m even prepared to escort you all the way to wherever you’re going?”

“We’re heading to Archer Four.” She shared. “And in light of what has happened I will be more than happy to accept any help you all can provide and having an NX-class to protect us will be an added bonus!” Choudary answered. 

“Archer Four?” Burton repeated, and he finally made the connections that this convoy was the one heading to the colony his sister and brother’s ships were helping out with. Choudary had just given him a silent nod when he asked for confirmation on their destination. “Then let’s get moving on this.” Burton suggested and unzipped the pocket in his right arm sleeve and took out his communicator before flipping it open. “Burton to Stanton.”

“Go ahead captain.” His chief engineer responded.

“Michael, is it safe enough for Mayflower to dock with Challenger?” The captain asked him into communicator.

“I’ve just finished inspecting the main docking port; there are a few minor issues with the airlock cycle, but nothing that will stop both shops from docking safely.” He replied. 

“Excellent, keep working on restoring their systems and once we’re docked get a full engineering team over here to get repairs complete.” Burton ordered and then tapped his communicator again to close the channel and open another. “Burton to Stewart.”

A second later came the reply from Challenger’s Nursing Officer and Senior Field Medic. “Go ahead sir.”

“Where do we stand with the injuries?” Burton inquired.

There was a slight pause from the ensign’s end; possible due to the fact Burton had disturbed him while treating patients. “Private Jenkins and I have been able to stabilise some of the major injuries, nevertheless we need to get them back to Challenger as soon as possible.”

“We’re about to dock both ships together, once we’re docked start moving the critical patients to sickbay.” Burton commanded.

“Aye sir.”

“Burton to Callahan.” The captain said after closing the channel with Stewart and making a new one with the other boarding team.

“Callahan here sir.” Replied the chief armoury officer and third officer. 

“John what’s the status of the Haig?” Burton asked, speaking into the communicator in his hands. 

“The ship is secure, our MACO medics have helped with some of the injuries. We could do with getting a full engineering detail over here to help get the warp drive working again. “ Callahan replied.

“Understood, standby John.” Again the captain pressed his communicator and spoke more into it. “Burton to Challenger.”

Challenger NX-03

Back on the bridge of the Challenger, Commander Levesque had found something to keep her busy. While sitting in the big chair had long been an aspiration of hers, at this moment she felt uneasy about the whole thing. Since leaving Earth a month ago the ship’s mission had been more than true to her name. Being attacked, being abducted, the ship out-matched and out-gunned by the Orions and now the Romulans; it did not bode well for the rest of their mission. It had taken almost everything they had to force the Romulans to retreat, and really the Vulcans had been the tipping point in the battle. Without them arriving when they did, things would be far worse. Now with their battle damage mostly repaired, Levesque had to admit that despite the setbacks she found herself itching for round two with the Romulans.

“Burton to Challenger.”

Dragging herself out from under the science console, she made her way over to the fore-mentioned command chair. “Challenger here, go ahead Captain.” She said after tapping on the communications panel built into the side computer station.

“Nicole, begin docking procedures between Challenger and the Mayflower. Once we’re docked, inform the good Ro-fa she’ll be having patients coming in.” Burton directed over the intercom.

“Aye, Captain. Ro-fa Ben-Ami has already prepared a triage area and all personnel with medical training are waiting to receive casualties. Is there anything else Captain?”

“Have a pilot come over and bring Shuttlepod One back and then prepare an engineering team to head over to the Haig to help Yu secure the ship. Get John to return with Shuttlepod Two with their seriously injured.” Burton stated.

“Understood.” She responded. 

“Thanks Nicole. Burton out.” The captain said and closed the channel. 

“Miss Hathaway,” Levesque began carrying out her orders. “Adjust course one-one-two mark five. Bring us alongside the Mayflower and prepare to extend umbilical.” 

“Aye, Ma’am.” Ensign Hathaway replied, the ship’s red-haired Second Helm Officer.

As the ship began to move, the First Officer scratched her chin as she considered their current situation. She looked over to the armoury station that was currently being manned by Callahan’s right hand. “Cortez, keep an eye on your sensors. This is the perfect time for the Romulans to get the drop on us. If they do come back I want you ready to blow the umbilical as soon as it’s clear and get us ready for action.”

“Yes Ma’am.” Cortez replied as Nicolette dropped into the command chair.

S.S. Mayflower BF-21

“Thanks Nicole. Burton out.” Lloyd flipped the communicator and looked at Choudhary. “Now let’s see if we can get you back on the road!”

Choudhary gave the Starfleet captain the same smile she had welcomed him with as she extended her arm and pointed down the direction of the corridor they were on. “This way then Captain Burton.” She said in a much happier tone.

Imperial Bird-of-Prey ChR Dhivael

Commander T’Voras glared at the sensor readings from his chair in the middle of the Dhivael’s control centre. The Hevam ship, whose commander had designated Ch’lenjer, was now engaged with saving the other crafts they had attacked. His ship was far away now for the enemy ships not to see them. 

 “Commander, incoming transmission from the home-world.” Decurion Morek reported from the communication station. 

The Romulan leader blinked and turned round to face the main screen. “Put it through.” He snapped. 

His orders were quickly carried out and the image of Admiral Valdore appeared before them. “Admiral.” T’Voras greeted his superior officer with. 

“Report Commander T’Voras.” The flag officer said in a cold but stern tone.

“Our initial attack was disrupted by the arrival of another Hevam ship. It is of the same configuration as the ship named En’ter’priz.” T’Voras described. “We began to engage them however the arrival of a Thaessu combat cruiser forced us away.”

Valdore appeared to growl at the mention of their distant-cousins. “Very well. How much damage did the Hevam aaenhr ships take?”

“They are adrift admiral.”

The Romulan admiral considered his options for a split-second before making a choice. “Proceed to phase two then and rendezvous with the rest of the task force. We move on to Gai’h’er-mne at once!” Valdore commanded before cutting the channel dead.

T’Voras took in a deep breath before he carried out his orders. “You heard the admiral’s order. Pilot set a course for the Gai’h system. Warp three.” T’Voras knew that this incursion of the admiral’s was important to the greater scheme of things. They had to stop the Hevam emaifha spreading to any more worlds. If the Romulan Star Empire was to survive and to defeat the Hevam vermin (as well as their Thaessu cousins) they certainly were not going to allow them to establish another colony or beachhead near to their space.

“Captain’s star log March First, Twenty-One-Fifty-Five. The Mayflower has successfully docked with Challenger and we’re beginning to treat the injured colonists and crew. Repairs are underway too. On another note, I have just spoken with Admiral Gardner regarding a personnel issue.”

Burton had yet to rest and was beginning to feel exhaustion creeping up against him. He was now sat in the confines of his office reading over Commander Stanton’s initial report on the damage the Mayflower had sustained. It was slowly creeping up to twenty-three hundred hours and the Captain was doing his best to take everything in. If the Mayflower was to get going any time soon, they would need help from the Vulcans to prevent them being caught by the Romulans again. All the help they could get would shave valuable time off the ticking clock they now all faced. The door chime went off interrupting the captain’s thoughts. He put down the mug of warm tea in his hands to look up at the door. “Come in.” He replied.

The door whooshed open and Lieutenant Commander Callahan walked through. Challenger‘s Third Officer and Chief Armoury Officer stood at attention. “Sir.” He said, greeting his commanding officer with his Texan accent.

Burton smiled up at the man who he had started to see as a friend. “John, please take a seat.” He said offering the small armchair on the other side of the room. 

Callahan took the offer and sat down; as he did, he pulled his trousers up slightly and made himself comfortable in the seat. “You wanted to see me sir?”

The captain nodded. “I did.” He remarked as he turned in his leather chair to face him, as he did he picked up a data-tablet and switched it on. “I spoke with Admiral Gardner earlier about the request you’ve made.”

Callahan only nodded silently.

“He informed me you made the request as your wife has asked you to return home?” Burton asked as he tried to understand the situation they were now in.

Again Callahan nodded once and spoke up afterwards. “At first I thought being on one of the deep space ships would be what I needed sir and when the opportunity came to join the third NX-class it was an unmissable one to say the least, captain. But with deepest regret sir, I need to return home to save my marriage.”

“I understand John.” Burton said, even though he wasn’t married himself, he understood that love conquered all. “I have to admit I was frustrated to hear you’ll be leaving us. You’re a fine officer and I appreciate your efforts, especially at the beginning when we launched. Your support and hard work has been extremely beneficial.” The captain paused. “What are you planning to do instead?”

“I’ve been asked to assist in teaching at Starfleet Training Command.” Callahan answered with satisfaction. “It means I can remain in Starfleet and be home with the family sir.”

“Well I hope you don’t give those cadets an easy time Commander!” Burton joked. “Admiral Gardner mentioned that the Gemini will be passing by and will be able drop out of warp for a short amount of time to pick you up and take you back to Earth.” 

“The Gemini?” Callahan repeated. The mention of his previous assignment brought a slight smile on his face.

Burton nodded. “Yeah, Captain Rostami agreed to divert to us as it was you he would be getting!”

“Excellent.” Callahan said chuckling at the notion.

Burton stood up. “However you do owe me big time for who Admiral Gardner is sending as your replacement!” 

Callahan stood up too and looked at his captain in confusion. “Oh?”

He passed the tablet he had been holding to Callahan to skim read. “As part of the new Coalition Compact, Starfleet will be joining in an officer-exchange program with the Vulcans, Andorians and Tellarites. Admiral Gardner feels we should show some initiative before the Compact is signed. As such an officer from the Vulcan High Command will be joining us. In fact she’s on the T’Paal now. I’m about to speak with their captain and eventually meet her.”

John smirked at this, knowing that not everyone was keen on having Vulcans on Earth ships. “Sorry sir. Next time you’re in Texas, stop by our ranch and I promise to make it up to you with a very strong bottle of whiskey!” 

“You’re on!” Burton countered back and extended his hand towards his outgoing chief armoury officer. “Thank you again John, I don’t think I would have gotten this far without you on the team.”

“It was an honour to serve under you Captain Burton.” Callahan returned and shook the captain’s hand with a smile of gratitude before returning the tablet to the captain.

The two men let go and Burton watched Callahan leave the room before looking back at the tablet. Sub Commander T’Plau, he thought to himself, what would happen next he pondered.

Vulcan combat cruiser T’Paal

The Suurok-class combat cruiser had been assisting the Earth ships for some time now when the message from the Vulcan High Command had arrived. Sub Commander T’Plau had been in her guest quarters meditating while she had journeyed from her previous posting on the D’kyr­-class cruiser Sakra to Denobula for her new assignment. T’Plau recently had been studying up on human technology and methods in preparation to join Ambassador Soron when he returned to Earth as one of his aides. However, the Vulcan High Command had other ideas for her posting. Only moments ago she had received brand new orders that contradicted her previous one. She would no longer be joining the T’Paal; instead she would be joining the crew of the Challenger instead. She found the entire situation perplexing; however she began to understand the logic in her superior’s decision to go along with the request from Starfleet Command. As part of the agreement in the Coalition of Planets’ Compact, the allied nations would engage in an officers-exchange programme. This was a practice that had been suspended between Earth and Vulcan after the destruction of the monastery at P’Jem. However it seemed the new government was interested in resuming such practices to prove to the others they saw the alliance as a worthwhile objective to develop. 

T’Plau had considered it to be peculiar to be on a ship with no post and no requirements to do anything on board other than relax. So far on her trip she had carried on her reading of The Teachings of Surak, now T’Plau sat on her floor in the lotus position with her eyes closed. 

The door opened and a young Sub Lieutenant entered, “Sub Commander we’ve arrived in the sector. Captain Sortak requests your presence on the bridge ma’am.”

T’Plau opened her eyes, “I am just coming Sub Lieutenant.” T’Plau rose from the ground wiping herself down as she made her way to the bridge alongside the Sub Lieutenant.

Captain Sortak looked at the newly minted Sub Commander as she entered the bridge, “Sub Commander T’Plau we have a team going to the Mayflower, we are going to send a team to aid in the repairs. This might give us a better understanding of the humans; we will contact the Challenger first before we send you across.” The Captain opened a channel of communication with the Challenger.

The image of Captain Lloyd Burton appeared on the main screen. “Captain Sortak, thank you for being patient to speak with me.” He spoke in a calm and pleasant manner, an uncharacteristic combined tone expected from a human T’Plau thought. 

Sortak looked at the view screen, “It is of no consequence Captain Burton, logically you would be busy dealing with your transports. I wanted to introduce you to,” Sortak looked down at his computer tablet to ensure he got the designation for position correct before looking back up, “Chief Armoury officer, Sub Commander T’Plau.” 

T’Plau nodded courteously, “Greetings Captain.”

Burton smiled at the Vulcan officer. “A pleasure to meet you Sub Commander.” He said before returning his attention to Captain Sortak. “We’ve already began repairs on the Mayflower, but my chief engineer would welcome any support you and your crew can provide.” Burton returned with a friendly smile.

Sortak looked down his duty roster, “Is it people or parts you lack on board the Mayflower? I can have T’Plau deliver either. She is a skilled engineer so it only logical as she will be spending a prolonged time with your crew for them to get to know her better that she joins them on the Mayflower.”

“Both, captain.” The human captain returned. He nodded to someone off screen before looking back at the Vulcans. “I’m sending over now our repair assignments, my chief engineer would like to see if you’re able to help get their life support systems back up to full operational status along with the other support systems, they’ll need to sustain the colonists. Is that acceptable to you?“

Sortak nodded to his engineer who received the assignments, “We have been sent by the High Command to render aid, and we will have a team aboard the Mayflower shortly.”

“Excellent. I recommend you send your team over via shuttlepod and to dock on the other side of the Mayflower.” Burton said. “Sub Commander T’Plau I look forward to working with you.“

T’Plau nodded, “Looking at the schematics it should be simple enough to restore the basic functions but the interference makes it difficult to have a clear picture.”

“I’ll have one of my engineers get you up to speed once your team is settled in on the Mayflower. Perhaps afterwards you can come aboard Challenger for us to discuss your assignment to Challenger.” Burton stated. 

T’Plau looked at the screen, “If that is your wish Captain.” She paused before speaking further. “If it is possible could you have someone send me the output energies of your weapons. I have a few thoughts on improvements of your current technology.”

“Let’s discuss your assignment first, Sub Commander and then we can talk out about improving our technology.” Burton replied. He then looked at Captain Sortak, “Captain, with your permission I would ask for the T’Paal to remain with us. I fear these Romulans will return and I don’t think the colony ships along with the cargo ship could survive another brutal assault. Our two ships working together would increase their chance of survival and arriving at Archer Four successfully. Plus, it would be gratefully received in spirit for the upcoming signing of the new Coalition.”

Sortak nodded slightly, “My orders are to remain here until repairs are made then to escort the vessels back to friendly space. We will be content to help deal with the Romulans.”

“I very much appreciate the support Captain.” Burton returned in a friendly tone. “Let’s keep in touch, Burton out.”

Sortak cut the channel then turned to T’Plau, “Sub Commander you have no right to improve human technology without permission from the High Command.” 

T’Plau handed him her orders from the High Command which clearly stated that she was allowed to improve current human technology not create new technology for them. “I am here to bring the Vulcans and Humans to a more friendly relationship Captain, if you have nothing else I will prepare the team to shuttle to the Mayflower.” The captain nodded slightly and T’Plau left the bridge.

T’Plau headed back to her quarters collecting her tools and equipment she would need after being transferred, she clipped on her disruptor and scanner as she sat on her floor taking a deep breath allowing herself to relax. She had been preparing herself for the human contact by eating their food, watching videos of their customs and the unpleasant task of smelling them by using chemical traits shared by the Vulcan doctors who had worked with humans. She hoped all of this would reduce the shock of the change of environment and culture. One last deep breath and exhale and she stood up, exiting her quarters heading down to the shuttle bay. 

T’Plau stood in the lift and was soon joined by engineers who were going to be going with her on the Mayflower; the trip was done in silence as they had nothing to really speak about. They all exited the turbo lift and headed to the shuttle bay where they met with the other two engineers and a helmsman who had a strong linguist background in case there was an issue. T’Plau was the senior officer so she spoke to the team which had a major and the rest being subaltern, “I know some of you may not like the humans and I am here to remind you that your opinions are not relevant we have been given orders from the High Command to assist this ship in its repairs then I will be joining the Starfleet vessel after this assignment so I would like it if we could not cause me long term issues.”

The junior staff all scattered and started to check the supplies as T’Plau put her personal kit into the shuttle and started the sequence for bringing the shuttle online watching the system run its pre-flight checks pressurising components and running currents through the electrical components. T’Plau then looked over the inventory of materials and approved them as everything they might need, “Let us get this mission started.” Once the team was all in the shuttle T’Plau sat beside the pilot and opened a com channel to the bridge, “Captain we are ready to depart.” 

The voice came back, “Acknowledged Sub Commander.” 

The bay opened and the shuttle eased out of the T’Paal and navigated the shuttle on the path the human captain had supplied. The shuttle eased around under the seasoned hand of the helmsman who gained a seal with ease. The airlock cycled quickly as the air pressures were similar thus requiring little to no step down or up.

S.S. Mayflower BF-21

T’Plau exited the shuttle first looking around moving quickly to the secondary life support control system the primary systems had been working on back-up power so they needed to get the full power back up and make sure the secondary controls functioned the air was thin too thin for humans but comfortable for Vulcans as they were much more used to it as Vulcan had a much thinner atmosphere. Due to the reduction in functionality of the life support, they had to make the areas with the humans in it to run at full function while the areas the Vulcans worked in could be at a lower level.

The team moved quickly with the actions of a well-oiled machine, T’Plau moved to the secondary control panel and started to examine the fault line and tapping her padd to send the task list to the other engineers. T’Plau knew this was going to be a long term task as the systems where in worst shape than had been thought the electrical pathways needed replacing as they had been damaged during the several overloads that had occurred during their attack. It would take several hours to repair all the damage so T’Plau saw this as a good opportunity to communicate with her new commanding officer. T’Plau tapped the com button, 

“T’Plau to Captain Burton, Would you like me to come aboard Challenger to confirm my transfer?”

Challenger NX-03 

Burton had found himself slowly making his way down to his quarters on E deck. He suppressed a few yawns as he turned away from the lift he had just exited. Walking down the corridor, he passed the door for the atmospheric processors and continued to go past a number of junior officers and enlisted quarters. 

As it was so late the lighting was dimmed and he wasn’t expecting to see many people in this area of the ship, especially as most of the colonists were being seen in sickbay and beds had been set up for them in the cargo bays. However the captain was shocked when he walked past an alcove, which had doors either side of it to quarters, and saw two people pressed up against one of the corners. He had stopped for a moment when he had heard a slight moan and a grunt. Burton then wished he hadn’t paused as he was confronted with the sight of two of his crew making out. Quickly he tried to carry on without making too much noise but the nearby communication panel went off and the voice of Petty Officer Howard, who was currently manning the communications station on the bridge, came through quite loudly.

“Bridge to Captain Burton.” The moment her voice went through the intercom speaker the two crewmembers in the corner stopped and looked at each other after taking a double take at their captain, absolute horror was now plastered across their face at what they had been caught doing.

Burton, just as embarrassed they were, tapped the nearest communications panel. “Burton here.” He said grimacing at the awkward moment he had just stepped in to. 

“Sorry to disturb you sir but Sub Commander T’Plau wishes to speak with you.” She announced.

“Route the call to my quarters.” Burton ordered and tapped the channel closed and looked at the two crewmembers he had just found in a compromising position. “Private Jenkins, Ensign Stewart.” He said after trying to remain cool about the whole thing.

The two men cleared their throats and nodded in respect towards their captain. “Sir.” They both said in unison as they tried to smooth out their clothing and wipe their mouths from their exploits.

Burton had to smirk at the irony of the whole thing. Only earlier on in the day he had heard that Stewart was protesting towards Jenkins about being armed for the mission to the Mayflower. The two of them hadn’t started their relationship off on in a good way, but a few hours later they seemed to be getting on extremely well. 

“Well good night gentlemen.” The captain stated. He had noticed the two of them were obviously off from duty as neither of them were in their uniforms. He had heard that Jenkins had been helping out in sickbay with the colonists since their return; obviously this was the start of a new relationship between the two of them. 

“Good night captain.” Stewart said respectfully. 

“Sleep well sir.” Jenkins added.

“Likewise.” Lloyd returned before leaving them both and as he walked away he heard them both sigh heavily and curse for being caught by their captain. Lloyd chuckled to himself as he finally approached his quarters and made his way in.

He made his way over to his computer as he began to take his jumpsuit off. He pressed the button that stated that there was a call for him on standby. “Sub Commander T’Plau, this is Captain Burton.” He said into the mic. 

“Would you like me to come aboard Challenger to confirm my transfer?” She asked.

Burton again held back a yawn. “I would Sub Commander, however I am about to retire for the evening. Can you meet me at oh eight hundred hours and I can accept your transfer then?”

There was a slight pause. “Of course, captain. Good night sir.” She replied, with what Burton was certain there was a slight irritant tone in her voice at the end. 

“Thank you Sub Commander.” Burton replied and closed the channel as he stripped down to his underwear and eventually pulled his pyjama bottoms on. He got into his bed and found himself finally falling asleep.

Six hours later and Captain Burton found himself back on duty, back in his uniform and back on his bridge. He had reported for duty a bit earlier than normal. He hadn’t been able to budge out of his mind why the Romulan ship had attacked the colony ships and why they hadn’t destroyed them. Both ships were easy targets. As most of his crew were now engaged with repairs on both colony ships he had decided to take the time to see if he could find any more answers about their Romulan conundrum. It was a task he would have handed over to Commander Callahan, however the Gemini had arrived only twenty minutes ago and had docked with Challenger briefly to pick up Callahan. As the ship was on a tight schedule to return to Earth, the moment he was on board the Gemini flew back into warp. The crew were able to say their goodbyes to Callahan shortly after Burton and he had spoken about his departure. It had been a brief affair as everyone was busy helping out with the repairs. It hadn’t been the best way that Burton had wanted to see Callahan off, but he was restricted by the timeframe he was given. He paused in his work as he looked over at the chronometer on the far side of the bridge. He still had another twenty minutes before he met with Callahan’s replacement: Sub Commander T’Plau. 

At communications, Ensign Hennessey lowered his earpiece and placed it on the console. He rose and approached Captain Burton.

“Sickbay reports Ensign Alcott is in stable condition, sir,” he said. 

Captain Burton looked up from where he was sitting in the situation room. He had decided to sit at the back of the bridge and analyse the sensor logs that they had been able to retrieve from the Mayflower and Haig from when the Romulans had attacked them. He looked up at Hennessey. “That’s good to hear Ned. Has Kefira mentioned when he’ll be able to return to duty?”

Hennessey shook his head. “She wants to keep him under observation for the next twenty-four hours and then bed rest for the next forty-eight.”

Burton rubbed his temple. He had already lost his chief armoury officer within a span of two days; he would now be without his chief helm officer for a little bit longer. “Very well.” He gave out a long yawn and realised the ensign was still standing there. “Anything else Ned?” He asked, trying to hide his tiredness.

“Yes, sir.” Ned lifted a tablet and pushed his spectacles up on the bridge of his nose. “The E.C.S. Raven is requesting repair assistance.”

The mention of the Raven peeked Burton’s interest. The Earth cargo ship had requested to stay with them as they were heading to Archer Four as well. “What’s wrong?”

“Subspace radio malfunction. Their corporate office is screaming for a vessel status from them and they’re unable to answer. It’s not a good way to travel.”

Burton rubbed his hair. “At the moment we’ve got engineering teams on both the colony ships.” He paused for a moment to think about their options, he looked from the tablet up to the communications officer. “Do you think you could handle it?”

Hennessey nodded. “I actually didn’t do poorly in my technical education courses at STC. With your permission I’ll draw some replacement parts from supply and take it over with me. Ensign Larsen can handle any coms traffic while I’m gone.” He looked at Burton and frowned. “I’ll need a pilot for the shuttlepod.”

“I’m afraid both shuttlepods are being used at the moment.” Lloyd remarked. “It will have to be the transporter unless they can send someone over in one of their own auxiliary crafts?”

The discomfort on Hennessey’s face was noticeable. He let out a heavy sigh. “I guess it’ll be scrambled molecules.”

Burton chuckled at this. “Ned I’m sure the Raven has a spare craft they could send over, especially as they know we are coming to help them with repairs!” 

The communications officer looked relieved. “Thank you, Captain. I’ll contact them and make the arrangements.”

“Excellent Ensign.” Burton said and watched as his communications officer went back to his station to do his work. 

Almost half an hour later and Hennessey had his answer. The docking port door opened with a powerful whoosh.

“Someone call for a ride?”

Ned Hennessey stood in the Challenger corridor and regarded the man who had just spoken to him from inside the docking port. He had unruly dark blond hair that looked in desperate need of a barber and what looked like five o’clock shadow, though based on the state of the young man’s soiled clothing, Hennessey surmised that his face just might have been dirty.

“Yes,” the communications officer answered. “Ned Hennessey. I’ll be fixing your subspace radio.”

“Ed, nice to meet you,” the man extended his hand and gripped Ned’s when the older man offered it. “Jack Conrad. I’ll be your chauffeur.” He squatted to pick up a supply crate sitting on the deck next to Hennessey. “Let’s get moving. Shall we?”

“It’s actually Ned,” Hennessey corrected Conrad, but the young man had already started the task of getting the crate and Hennessey herded through the docking collar that connected the Challenger to the craft from the Raven.

In less than two minutes, the pair was aboard the small craft, which Conrad had explained served as a captain’s gig and conveyance for small or precious cargo needing special attention.

“I keep telling the skipper we need one of those fancy matter transporters for the big stuff. But, he’s afraid it’ll scramble the cargo. The strawberries will taste like tomatoes or some craziness like that,” Jack said. “I told him I was the first one in my STC class to volunteer to go through the thing and I turned out alright.”

Hennessey looked up at Conrad’s mention of Starfleet Training Command. “You were in Starfleet?”

“Yes and no,” He answered as he flipped some switches. “Better strap yourself in. We’re getting ready to cast off. Depressurizing docking collar.”

There was a shudder as the small craft separated from the Challenger and they were soon floating free.

“What do you mean ‘yes and no?” Hennessey asked.

“I was in STC for four years and was drummed out not too long before graduation,” Conrad said. “A little disagreement with the administration over a research interest of mine.” Conrad cast a glance over his shoulder at Hennessey. “Don’t take this the wrong way, pal, but you’re kind of old for an ensign.”

“They needed experienced linguists, so they created an eight-week training program,” Hennessey replied. “At the end of it, we were commissioned.”

“Hot damn! Eight weeks to a commission!” Conrad replied. “That’s rich. I was only about three weeks away from graduation when they kicked me out.”

Conrad turned the craft’s steering controls, bringing the Raven into the viewport. Compared to the Challenger, the cargo ship was shabby-looking with an almost utilitarian appearance.

“What did they kick you out for?”

“It was my first-class year. They had done something earlier in the year commemorating the flight of the Phoenix, built a replica and all that jazz. These bozos from the test flight centre flew it and they thought they were such hot snot. Well,” he lowered his voice and adopted a conspiratorial tone, “I started researching the late twentieth century Earth space programs and came up with something even better.” He eyed the new crewman. “Ever heard of the Mercury-Redstone?”

Hennessey looked thoughtful for a moment. “Wasn’t that the first manned vehicle in the American space program?” 

Conrad looked over his shoulder again. “Winner, winner, chicken dinner!” The pilot was jubilant.

“Wait a minute.” Now it was Hennessey’s turn to be stunned. “Are you saying you built-”

“Exactamundo.”

“How?”

“I assembled a team of the best and brightest cadets at Starfleet Training Command,” he said. “I should say the best and brightest cadets who weren’t afraid of getting caught doing a highly questionable and unsanctioned engineering research project. I had a really good scrounge for the raw materials. Supply Corps picked him up pretty quick after graduation. I had a chemical engineer for the rocket fuel.”

“You used liquid propellant?” Hennessey was incredulous.

“Hey, man. I’m a purist. Go big, or go home.”

“Well, who’d you get to fly the thing?”

Conrad crossed his arms, leaned back against the bulkhead and just grinned.

“You’re kidding.” Hennessey’s ordinarily bulbous eyes were even wider as he processed what Conrad was telling him.

“Mister Radio Man, I’m the best there is. If they strapped warp nacelles to a corn silo, you bet your ass I could fly it.”

Hennessey was speechless. Conrad looked over his shoulder again, grinning ear to ear.

“Pretty neat, huh?”

“Uh-huh,” Hennessey replied. He started thinking about Ensign Alcott, and Captain Burton’s concern about the state of the Challenger‘s helm division. “So, they kicked you out for that?”

“Yeah. Started kind of a panic in planetary defence. The controllers saw a liquid propelled missile on the sensors and immediately thought someone was launching an atomic attack. Didn’t consider it originated in freakin’ San Francisco.” Conrad shrugged. “They said they kicked me out for conducting a ‘highly dangerous and unsanctioned engineering research project.’ I say they just didn’t like that I did it without any help from the so-called experts.”

“So now you…” Hennessey asked.

“Fly for ECS, yeah,” Conrad answered. “And it’s not so bad. I guaran-damn-tee I know some of these routes better than a lot of those flyboys coming out of STC nowadays. That’s my revenge, ya know.”

“Yeah,” Hennessey said, though he was only half-listening. An idea was forming in his head.

“This guy’s Starfleet, sir.”

Burton took the tablet out of Ned’s hands to read the biography he had dug up from the Challenger‘s databanks. He glanced down before looking up at his chief communication officer. “And?” He asked, wondering where his communication officer was going with this.

The two officers were standing in the captain’s office that sat off from the main bridge. Burton sat in the comfortable leather armchair that sat on the far wall opposite the door. “Sorry Ned.” He said when he realised he hadn’t responded in the best possible way. “I only got a few hours of sleep last night; please join the dots up for me!”

“Sir,” Hennessey began, “as we are currently not moving and repairs are being well-coordinated by our engineering staff, I have found myself with time on my hands, so, much to my own surprise, I took some initiative.”

He took the tablet back from the captain. “We are down a helmsman. Ensign Alcott is in recovery for who knows how long. This guy,” he tapped the small computer screen showing Jack Conrad’s photo, “has been navigating this area of space for close to a year, according to the Raven‘s logs.” Hennessey touched a control on the device and the screen shifted to text. “There’s a little-known codicil in the Starfleet-Earth Cargo Service support agreement allowing for Starfleet to exercise eminent domain of property and services in exchange for a minimum fair-market value.” He handed the tablet back to Burton.

Burton rubbed his temple as he considered what the ensign was implying. “Ned, are you suggesting I buy Mister Conrad’s services to fly our ship?” 

“Sir, it’s not my place to advise you on major personnel decisions,” He replied, “but…yes.”

“Not that I’m saying I’m agreeing to this idea but what was he reaction to Starfleet being here? Do you think he would want to return to active service?” Burton asked, as he pondered over the idea. 

“The contract is pretty clear that it doesn’t really care how he, or his skipper for that matter, feels about it,” Hennessey said. “It’s not as though it would be permanent anyway. When Ensign Alcott is well enough to return to duty, Mister Conrad’s services would no longer be needed. He returns to the Raven and everybody wins.”

Burton frowned at the ensign’s suggestion. “Ned I appreciate what you’re saying here, but there’s no way I could agree to such a thing in all fairness. The crew on this ship have spent a number of years training for this assignment. On top of that I can’t imagine Admiral Gardner hearing the idea that I allowed a civilian to use our equipment without proper authorisation.”

“But for an eight-week crash course at Starfleet Training Command, I’m a civilian. I’m a linguist and interpreter with a rank. I’ve heard JAG lawyers come in as lieutenants. No basic training, just a commission.” Hennessey pushed his glasses up on his nose. “He had four years, minus a few weeks, at STC. He made a mistake. A gutsy one. But, he’s probably better prepared as a Starfleet officer than some ambulance chaser or me. And I’d tell that to Admiral Gardner’s face. Worst he could do is bust me back to civilian life and assign me to my ex-wife’s office.”

Burton sighed at the facts. He was now a helmsman down. Alcott was still recovering in sickbay, Hathaway was pulling double shifts and his three other helmsmen weren’t officers and completely inexperienced for combat situations. “If,” He said with a pause. “If he was prepared to return to active duty in uniform and passed the medical fitness exam I may consider the notion.” 

“It makes no difference to me,” Hennessey said. “It’s just an idea. And a half-cocked one, at that.”

“Let me talk to Commanders Levesque and Stanton then we may meet with him.” Burton stated clearly. “Thank you for your efforts though Ned.”

Hennessey just nodded with a smile and left the captain’s office swiftly, hoping he had made the right move with his suggestion to Captain Burton.

Voyager NV-03 , in orbit of Archer IV

Captain Madison Burton felt her back scream out in pain as she rose from her chair in the middle of Voyager’s bridge. She was now halfway through her pregnancy and was starting to find herself waddling around the ship. She would be going on maternity leave soon while Voyager was docked back at Earth undergoing its yearly refit and overhaul. In all fairness her leave and the upgrades had come at a great time for her. That all said, part of Madison was considering resigning her commission. Stephen (her husband) and her would be getting married in August and they would both be busy with parenthood. She didn’t want to leave Starfleet, but part of her knew she couldn’t raise her son on a ship far from his father or expect Stephen to take care of their child by himself. It was only two weeks ago that she had finally told her parents; her mother was over excited at the news of becoming a grandmother. 

Right now she turned her attention towards the lift so she could go off duty and get some rest. Her first officer, Commander Sian Doyle, smiled at her as she walked away from the science station and made her way to take over in the centre chair. However they were both stopped from moving any further when Lieutenant Natasha Cherdenko spoke up from the tactical station.

“Captain, I’m detecting four ships entering the system.” The almost pure white blonde haired Russian said as she read her readings. 

Madison stopped in her track and turned to look at her armoury officer. “Who are they lieutenant?” She moved herself back to her seat and held on to the back of it tightly, trying to ignore the pain in her back. At the same time Commander Doyle had returned to her seat at the science console.

A second or two passed before Cherdenko answered. “Romulan ma’am.” She said as the colour drained from her face. 

“Tactical alert.” Madison ordered solemnly as she slid herself back into her chair. She looked down at her helm officer as the bridge’s lights dimmed and the crew readied themselves for battle. “Kenji, place us in a low orbit and reduce our warp profile to minimal.” 

“Aye ma’am.” Ensign Kenji Hu replied, the Japanese pilot quickly moved his fingers over the controls to execute his captain’s order.

“Aiden,” Burton said, grabbing the attention of her communications officer. “Get a subspace message to Earth, the Republic and Challenger – tell them what’s happening. Also tell Captain Shumar to follow us. Then get me the team down on Archer Four.” 

The young officer that sat at the communication’s channel only nodded as he did his work.

Madison looked over to Sian now, the two of them had worked together for almost eight years now and both knew how to read each other’s body language and facial expressions. Both women wore expressions of concern. They both knew about the threat the Romulans posed towards Earth and its allies. However, seeing as Voyager and the Daedalus-class Essex were the only Starfleet ships in the Archer system, their survival against four Romulan ships seemed improbable. 

At that point of thought Madison placed her hand against her stomach to comfort the infant that rested within her. Guilt soon placed itself over her thoughts. Why didn’t she resign when she found out she was pregnant or at least take a leave of absence? She closed her eyes momentarily; hoping her brother on the Challenger got their message and arrived just in time to save her and his unborn nephew.

Michael Stanton would never admit it to anyone else, in particular Alex, his boyfriend, but he was starting to enjoy being on Challenger as its chief engineer. He found himself tinkering more with various things that he would ever had with the opportunity back at Starfleet Training Command. On top of that he found himself being happier in more social situations. He felt that in some ways Captain Burton’s influences and attributes that were brushing off on him and their developing friendship was also a helping factor too. In spite of all of this he now found himself working alone, something he enjoyed a lot. His own mind was engaged with the puzzle before him. The solution was within his grasps. This was the stuff he was born to do. Currently he was working on trying to restore power to the Mayflower’s port thruster assembly. Alone in this tight maintenance tube with just his thoughts and broken circuits to fix was a welcome change of scenery for the engineer.

Or so he thought.

“Michael?”

The engineer sighed to himself; he recognised the owner of the deep British male accent in an instant. “Down here captain!” He replied.

“You got a moment?” Captain Burton asked from where he stood at the entrance of the tube’s hatch, bending to look down the horizontal access tunnel. 

“Yup,” Stanton replied by popping the ‘p’ “One second sir.” He added as he closed the work he was doing down and crawled his way out of the tube to come face to face with his commanding officer.

“How’s it going?” Burton asked, indicating towards the work he had just pulled his engineer from.

Nodding with pride after wiping the sweat off from his forehead with the back of his right hand, Stanton answered. “Ahead of schedule sir, all primary systems are back up and running. We’re just finishing off the last bits.”

Lloyd’s eyes grew in amazement. They had been working on both colony ships all day and it was now evening time. “Wow, that’s impressive.”

“Well we’ve got the finest engineering crew in the fleet working with the Mayflower’s crew who know this ship inside and out.” He stated. “Plus Sub Commander T’Plau’s teams have been extremely helpful too.”

Nodding in admiration of their work, Burton continued speaking. “That’s good to hear, well done Michael.”

“Thank you sir.” Stanton said and noticed the captain holding a tablet in his hands. “I assume you didn’t come over to speak with me about repairs though?”

 “I’m afraid not.” Burton said as he gestured for Stanton to sit down on the edge of the hatch as he squatted down on the deck himself. He passed what he was holding over to his chief engineer and second officer. “We’ve got an issue with our helm department.”

“Ezrah still not up and about?” Stanton asked with a concerned tone.

Burton shook his head and whispered what he said next, not wanting the pilot’s medical status to be shared with anyone from Challenger who may walk past them. “No not yet, but he is awake. Kefira is worried that he now may be suffering from severe post-traumatic stress disorder. He woke up quite angry over his injuries and began to blame himself for what had happened. She had to give him a low-level sedative to calm him. She believes the multiple combinations of what happened on the Orion ship, with the news of his father and this accident, may have pushed him over the edge. She’s not convinced he is mentally fit for duty at the moment.”

Stanton looked shocked now. He seriously thought the pilot was slowly coming to grips with what had happened in his kidnapping. He had spent many nights talking it through with him. “What is she suggesting we do?”

“She’s relieving him of duty, effectively immediately and placing him under close psychiatric observation.”

“Relieving him of duty will surely make things worse for him? Ezrah said to me going back to work was helping him come to terms with what happened with the Orions. It was a source of strength for him.” 

“I understand what you’re saying Michael.” Burton remarked while nodding in sympathy and keeping a low voice too. He knew the engineer had taken the pilot under his wing in a sort of brotherly way. “But it could tip him in the wrong way. No one can predict how someone will react when they’re dealing with such traumas.”

Stanton looked down at the tablet and read the file that was active on it. It read John Michael Conrad II – Service Record. He recognised the surname but couldn’t quite put his finger on it. “So who is this?” He wondered looking back at the captain, trying to work out where Burton was going with this.

“Unfortunately with Ezrah being relieved of duty it means we are a pilot down and there’s no way Angela could cope with pulling double shifts in the long term. Kefira doesn’t know how long Ezrah will take until he is fit for duty.”

“Are you sending him back to Earth?” Stanton quickly asked, interrupting the captain in mid-flow.

Shaking his head in response, Burton explained his train of thought. “No, not unless Kefira feels she can’t support him out here. She feels she can and I would prefer we help him unless he requests to return home.” He leant forward and tapped the tablet in Stanton’s hands. The service record came to life and showed an image of a man in a Starfleet cadet’s uniform alongside his entire biographical information. “This is John Conrad, he’s the Raven’s pilot and engineer. He should be a Starfleet officer; however, almost four years ago as he was about to graduate he pulled a stunt that got him booted out of the service. Since then he has been flying the Raven.”

“You want him to replace Ezrah?” Stanton said, finally understanding what his superior was considering. He felt a bit annoyed that the captain was contemplating going with this guy instead of Alex. On the other hand he understood that there was no way that Alex could get out here in time to help them compared to this John Conrad.

“It’s a possibility…a temporary possibility.” Burton answered. “I have filed my request to have Alex transferred before you ask, but Admiral Gardner said it could be weeks for Alex to be with us if the transfer was accepted. However, Mister Conrad is here and could join us temporarily while Ezrah is recovering and while we wait for confirmation about Alex. I’ve left this with Nicole to consider too, but I want you both to think it over and let me know your thoughts on the idea.”

“Conrad?” Stanton said to himself as he stared at the image again before looking back at the captain. “In fact I think I met him earlier today. However he didn’t refer to himself as John but as Jack.”

Burton chuckled. “Yeah Ned said the same thing. His friends and colleagues call him Jack instead of John.” At that point Burton’s communicator beeped at him. He pulled down on the zipper on his arm, yanked out the device and flipped it open. “Burton here.”

“Sorry to disturb you sir.” Spoke Ensign Hennessey. “But we’ve received a message from Voyager.”

“Voyager?” Burton repeated in confusion at the mention of his sister’s ship.

“Yes sir. They report that Romulan ships have entered the Archer system and are taking what they believe to be an aggressive stance. They’re requesting our help along with any other allied ship in the area.” Hennessey reported. 

At the mention of the Romulans, Burton and Stanton both stood up. Burton indicated with a jerk of his head for Stanton to follow him. “Understood ensign. Call back all of our officers, inform the other captains in the convoy of the situation and for them to standby for my orders.”

“Even the Vulcans sir?” Hennessey questioned.

Burton sighed, “Do it as a request and in a diplomatic way if possible Ned.” He pleaded with his communications officer. 

“Understood sir.”

“Commander Stanton and I are on our way back to Challenger now. Have the rest of the senior crew on the bridge by the time we arrive.” Burton quickly closed his communicator as panic began to fill him.

Challenger NX-03, en route to Archer IV 

Hennessey had been extremely efficient; by the time Burton and Stanton had reported to the bridge, everyone was there ready for them. Now they were all stood around the table in the situation room, aft of the bridge reviewing the message from Voyager. Before them sat the last sensor scan the ship had taken of the four incoming Romulan Birds-of-Prey against a map of the 61 Ursae Majoris system, also now known as the Archer system. Four green dots on the edge of the system pinpointed where the Romulans had dropped out of warp while two blue dots indicated the last known location of the starships Voyager and Essex in orbit around Archer IV.

Burton lent in further to study the map of the system. The Archer system had a yellow dwarf star and nine planets in it. It almost resembled the same setup of the Sol system except the first three planets were closer to the sun and were not suitable to be inhabited. The fifth planet was almost like Mars where it could be easily terraformed and adapted to become Minshara class. There were two gas giants while the last two planets in the system were pretty much frozen rocks. Three asteroid fields inhabited the star system too. 

“What is the most probable course of action that Captain Burton would take?” Sub Commander T’Plau asked as she stood behind Burton’s left shoulder with her hands grasped behind her back.

Burton smirked for two reasons; one of them was that hearing someone else being referred to as Captain Burton on his ship was strange. The second reason was he knew how Madison thought and what she would do in such a situation. “Madison is smart enough not to engage them, especially with the odds being two-to-one.” He answered. “She knows there’s no way she would be able to win with those odds. Knowing my sister as well as I do, I would think she would have retreated to a safe harbour to await reinforcements.”

“A logical course of action.” T’Plau said, almost applauding the notion coming from the captain’s sister.

“So what do we do?” Commander Levesque asked from the other side of the table. “We’ve got three civilian ships with us and a Vulcan combat cruiser.”

“Plus the Republic is incoming too.” Major Yu added from her position standing next to Levesque, pointing to the lone travelling dot being shown on the display.

 “Obviously we help them, but we can’t do it with the Mayflower, Haig and Raven with us.” Stanton said from Burton’s right side. 

The captain pondered their dilemma with some more thought. They couldn’t leave the three civilian ships out here to defend themselves in case the Romulans attacked them. On the other hand he couldn’t let Voyager and Essex be destroyed or for them to lose their foothold on the Archer system. He tapped on the image of Archer IV and brought up another image of the two moons that orbited the planet. He tapped on one of them and again all the information of the moon appeared next to it. “The second moon in orbit of Archer Four has a para-magnetic core.”

“Indeed.” T’Plau said as she began to join the captain with his train of thought. “Such a thing can mask energy signatures.”

Burton looked up the Vulcan officer and gave her a smile. “Also, Archer Four itself has an ionised atmosphere in the southern hemisphere, above its southern pole. This again is a great place to hide in. If my sister has followed what she would normally do then my money is on them hiding in one of these locations, hoping for us to turn up or for the Romulans to move on after being bored of having to wait.”

“I wouldn’t count on them giving up that easily.” Levesque remarked.

“Exactly so this is what I suggest. If we continue with the convoy to the Archer system then the Romulans will detect the massive subspace distortions that our combined warp engines are creating. So we need to get the civilian ships past them and into a hiding place without being seen. This,” He said pointing to the second moon, “Will be their hiding place.”

“Okay so we hide the colony ships and the Raven. How do we get them to pass the Romulans?” Yu asked as she crossed her arms against her chest.

“We do two things.” Burton explained. “One we create a diversion. Challenger and T’Paal enter the system with a high warp profile. That will get the attention of the Romulans and hopefully the Republic, Voyager and Essex will be able to join us as we drop out of warp. The second thing we do is send them into the Archer system at different entry points at warp one and with only barely minimum power for those systems they really need.”

“Then we engage the Romulans?” Yu probed, trying to see Burton’s strategy.

The captain winced. “If we can avoid a confrontation then that’ll be better, but the sight of our four ships as well as the Vulcans might be enough to persuade them not to bother fighting us.”

“That is unlikely to happen Captain.” T’Plau said in a deadpan approach. “However your plan is adequate to ensure our success. The numbers are in our favour.”

“High praise.” Levesque sarcastically said as she crossed her arms against her chest.

Burton smirked at both women. “If anyone else has an idea I’m open to it.” He offered looking at them all. They all said nothing or silently shook their heads. “Very well then. Sub Commander T’Plau can you inform Captain Sortak of our plan? Commander Levesque let Captain Choudhary know too. Ensign Hennessey get me Captain Montague of the Raven, tell him I have a request of him. The rest of you prepare the ship for our departure. Dismissed.”

The communications officer just nodded as he moved off from the group, as did T’Plau, Yu and Ben-Ami. Levesque and Stanton had looked at each other when Lloyd had mentioned making a request to the Raven. Once everyone was away from earshot both commanders spoke up to their captain.

“Sir a moment.” Levesque said, stopping Burton from walking off. 

“Sure.” He said, noticing the concerned look on both of his officer’s faces. “What’s up?”

“Are you going ahead with getting this Conrad guy here?” Levesque asked.

“If you two support it, then yeah.” He answered honestly. “I don’t think we have any other choice now.”

Stanton nodded. “I’ve got no issue with it sir.” He said and looked to Levesque who agreed with her own nod. “But do you think if he agrees to it then throwing him in to the deep end as we’re about to engage a hostile enemy is the right choice?”

“Ensign Hathaway would be up to the job sir.” Levesque added.

 “Angie has been at that helm all day.” Burton said, pointing towards it where the young red-haired Scottish woman sat before continuing. “She looks exhausted and in all fairness she may have tested well in the combat simulations on Earth, but compared to Conrad who has done the same thing as well as having four years dodging in and out of scrapes on an old rust bucket under his belt. Conrad may be quicker at reacting then Angie.”

 “Understood sir.” Levesque said after giving Stanton a worrisome look.

Leaning over to put an assuring hand on both their shoulders, Burton spoke. “Anyway it’s not as if I’ve asked the man yet. He could turn us down and he still has to pass every exam that Kefira can throw at him.”

 “If there’s time before we reach Archer Four sir.” Stanton reminded him.

“There’s lots of ‘ifs’ and ‘buts’ Commander when it comes to deciding the outcome of our travels in deep space and we can’t be sitting around pondering about them forever. We need to act now.” Burton said, dropping his hands. “I need this crew and ship ready. Both of you get it done.” He ordered.

They both replied with “aye sir”, but neither of them appeared convinced. Lloyd sighed inwards as he watched them leave him, hoping he had just made the right decision himself. 

E.C.S. Raven

Captain Logan Montague had never expected that he would hear from a Starfleet captain that he would be responsible for being part of a military operation. That said he had rarely spoken to any Starfleet captains in his life, but this Captain Burton chap was rubbing off on him. He was now working his way through each cargo module on his ship, inspecting the work his crew were currently engaged with ensuring the cargo and supplies they were delivering to Archer IV were tightly secured for the upcoming move to get them to the new Earth colony. He had passed several food containers when he heard a voice coming from the one person on his ship he knew would want to find him right about now.

“Cap’n!” The voice shouted from one end of the module to where Montague stood. Montague turned around to see the familiar cheeky disposition of his chief pilot and engineer: Jack Conrad. 

 “Jack, what can I do for you?” Montague replied with.

The pilot held up a data-tablet in the air and once he was close enough to the captain he answered. “What’s this?”

Montague took it out of his hands and read its contents briefly. “Looks like transfer orders to me.” He said and returned the item back to Conrad before carrying on with his inspection.

“We’re not in Starfleet!” Conrad exclaimed in an over the top manner. 

“You were.” Montague corrected as he peered over the top of some crates. “And I can’t deny Captain Burton’s request here Jack.”

“You could have spoken to me first.” Conrad replied, sounding a bit hurt. “After the past four years I thought I would have at least earned that much sir.”

Montague stopped what he was doing; he had already planned what he was going to say to the pilot about this. “Jack right now we’re in a sticky position and for this to succeed we need to put some faith in Starfleet doing their job right and playing our part too. Captain Burton’s top pilot was injured in that attack we witnessed as we approached the Mayflower. Burton’s second pilot doesn’t have much experience in dealing with combat situations, so right now Burton needs the best at his helm. Plus this is your own fault!”

“My fault?!” Conrad protested in a high pitch voice, realising everyone around them had stopped to look at them. He lowered his voice. “How is this my fault?”

Montague pointed his finger at Conrad. “You blabbed your mouth off to Burton’s communication officer when you picked him up. How amazing you were back at Starfleet Training Command, and you know what Jack, you are amazing. In fact you’re bloody brilliant and for what Burton has planned to succeed then I agree with him in having you flying his ship. He is risking a lot taking this chance with you as well.”

“What if I don’t want to go over? Hmm?” Jack remarked while crossing his arms.

Montague laughed out loud. “Jack, you and I both know you want to return to Starfleet. You deserve this my friend.” He said by grabbing the younger man by both shoulders. “This is the second chance you rightly deserve Jack and this temporary transfer may turn into something permanent for you.”

Conrad slumped his shoulders as he sighed. “Shouldn’t I be here flying the Raven? Especially if whatever we’re about to do is so dangerous!”

“Jack you’re forgetting something, you’re talking to the man who flew this old bucket of rust before you did. Who taught you all those tricks you know? We’ll do fine with me at the wheel, I promise.” The captain said as he let go of Conrad’s shoulders. “Son,” He said while placing his right hand on Conrad’s left cheek. “Do this, make me proud.” He finished.

Jack nodded. “That’s unfair.” He quietly said with a small smile. “You know I can’t say no to you Cap’n.”

Again the captain gave out a belly laugh and pulled the young man in. “That’s why you’re going to do this not only for me but for yourself.” He said in a fatherly manner. “You’ll do great sport, I know you will. Now go pack your things as Captain Burton wants to see you in an hour.”

Jack hugged the man, the man who had been a father figure to him for the past four years. “I promise not to screw it up for you.” He said as he let go.

“Not for me Jack, for you.” Montague said before giving him a wink and a smile showing his pride in him.

Jack nodded in agreement and soon left, heading to his quarters to begin packing to head back to a life he once knew; the return to Starfleet.

After he left the captain’s company, Montague’s first officer and chief medic walked over to him, joining the captain in starring as Conrad walked away. “So he’s going?” Ghita Sharma asked.

“Yeah.” Montague remarked before looking at the Indian woman. “What’s up Number One?”

She smirked as she passed the captain a data-tablet and spoke. “We’ve had a request to take in those injured and who are now recovering on Challenger. I’m quite happy that we’re able to cope with the extra load and deal with their treatments.”

 “Sounds fine with me Ghita.” He said as he put his arm around her and they walked in the opposite direction to prepare for their new guests and the mission that Captain Burton had briefed them on earlier.

Challenger NX-03

Ben-Ami walked through the doors to sickbay with her hands clasped gently behind her back. As she entered the medical ward, she was confronted with the sight of those left from the Mayflower and Haig that would require further observations and treatments; the only other patient that grabbed her attention was Ensign Alcott. This would be one of her greatest challenges in her medical profession. She had yet to deal with such circumstances that surrounded his case on board a deep space assignment. The middle-aged doctor felt she could help him, in fact she firmly believed it was their responsibility to help the young officer come to terms with what had happened to him in such a short period of time. It had been some time since she had to deal with such a severe psychiatric case, however in the years since joining Starfleet she had kept herself in what one could call the psychiatric arena by engaging with fellow colleagues with similar qualifications, in particular those involved in the IME program. She had considered getting in touch with some of them to give her their opinion on the case and consult them on possible ideas for treatments. 

“Ro-fa.” Interrupted Nurse Stewart. “All of our patients from the colony ships are responding well to their treatments and are making excellent recoveries. Do you want me to have them transferred back to the Mayflower and Haig?”

Ben-Ami looked at the younger officer and shook her head. “No, we’re about to undergo a crucial mission that I don’t think we’ll have time to transfer back in time. Plus, the colony ships don’t have all the adequate facilities.”

“What about the Raven?” He suggested as he passed her the data-tablet with their patients’ latest charts.

“The cargo ship?” She threw back as she read the tablet.

Stewart nodded. “Their medical facilities may not rival ours, but they are designed to deal with all sorts. They’re a lot better than the colony ships too. Aren’t they heading to Archer Four as well?”

The Israeli doctor considered the idea for a second. “Have you spoken to anyone else about this?” 

“No ma’am.” He responded as they walked over to the side where the small sickbay laboratory sat. “Do you want me to?”

“Let me clear it with the captain and if you can get in contact with the right people on the colony ships and Raven then let’s get it underway. I’ve got a feeling we may need to have these beds free.” She advised.

“What about Ensign Alcott?” Stewart looked over at the pilot. “He’s in a stable condition now.”

 “Has he woken up yet?” Ben-Ami asked as she led them both to where their patient lay on one of the recovery beds.

“He stirred for some time while you were in the senior staff meeting.” Stewart stated before continuing, knowing what she was going to ask next. “He asked where he was and what was happening. I briefly spoke to him and he was pretty calm. He had a drink of water before he went back to sleep.”

“It might be prudent to release him to his quarters. Familiar sights, sounds and smells may help him.” She advised and went round to stand by Alcott’s side. She leant slightly in and gently shook him to wake him. “Ensign Alcott, can you hear me?” After a few murmurs the Coloradan pilot slowly awoke.  She continued to speak to him. “Ezrah, how are you feeling?” 

“Tired, my face still feels a bit sore.” He explained as he pushed himself up on to his elbows and looked between the doctor and nurse to him. “Niall told me your decision to relieve me of my duties.”

The doctor nodded solemnly, she had guessed he would ask her that as he had expressed an interest in knowing her decision before their last session got out of hand. “Right now we want to help you Ezrah and we can’t do that while you’re sat on the bridge flying.”

He remained calm as he spoke. “No, I understand that now.” He paused. “I wanna say I’m sorry for the way I reacted last time Ro-fa, I didn’t mean any of what I said to you or Niall.”

 “Thank you Ezrah, I appreciate the apology.” She said coolly. 

“Is Angie really flying the ship now? She can’t do it by herself. Neither Cristiano nor Adrian are experienced enough. Plus Angie has said that she gets nervous in battle conditions.” Alcott worried.

Ben-Ami placed a gentle hand on Ezrah’s chest to calm him. “Do not worry Ezrah.” She assured him. “The captain has the situation under control.”

The pilot just nodded, showing he trusted her with what she was saying.

“You need to focus on getting yourself better so you can show them how to do it.” Stewart added with a small smile.

Relaxing back down on to the bed, Alcott nodded again. “Yeah, you’re right Niall.” He said as he took a few breaths. “Perhaps the captain can find someone to cover for me in the meantime.”

Ben-Ami smiled at the calmer approach he was now taking and pleased he was remembering the breathing techniques she had showed him to do to deal with his anxiety from their previous therapy sessions. “That sounds like a good idea Ezrah, that way they can deal with it all of those helm matters and you can concentrate getting yourself back on track so when you’re ready, and if you want to resume your duties you can.”

He nodded. “Okay.”

“Good.” She said with a genuine smile. “Now how do you feel about returning to your quarters and resting there?”

Alcott sat up slowly. “Can’t I stay in sickbay? I mean, don’t you need to keep me here for a bit longer?”

“We can Ezrah, but returning to a place which is your own private space may make you more comfortable. On top of that we need to prepare sickbay for the possibility of more casualties.” Ben-Ami stated in a low tone, trying to avoid alerting him.

“Are we answering another distress call then?” He asked, and sat up straight.

“Challenger is going to respond to a call of assistance from two other Starfleet ships. We don’t know what to expect, so the captain will be placing the ship at tactical alert once we get underway.” She explained. “I think it’s best you head to your quarters to rest there.”

He smiled. “You want me out of the way?” 

“No Ezrah, it’s not like that. It’s just fortune hasn’t dealt us with the best circumstances to help you with your recovery. On top of that your body still needs to fully recuperate from the trauma it went through.” She clarified, knowing she had to be careful not to tip him back to where he was.

Alcott chuckled as he pulled himself around on the bed, allowing himself to sit up properly. “I’m kidding Ro-fa, I understand I’m off duty and just need to relax in my room like a good boy!” He joked. “But I am famished, am I allowed to eat?”

“I’m sure we can ask Chef Lawson to whip something up but I would suggest you avoid large social gatherings. Little steps Ezrah.” She reminded him. “I’m sure Ensign Stewart can walk you to your quarters and make sure you have everything you need.”

 “No way, I’m not allowing him to do that especially when he has a date with Private Jenkins!” Alcott explained with a smirk on his face looking at Niall.

The Irish nurse just looked dumbfounded, he blinked a few times and gazed between the two of them. “Err…umm…” He stumbled out with.

Alcott sniggered a bit more. “Don’t worry Niall, I promise not to tell everyone about you two.”

Ben-Ami had already known about Ensign Stewart being romantically involved with the young MACO soldier. Stewart had turned up to his shift this morning explaining how embarrassed he was from being caught making out with Jenkins by Captain Burton in the corridor. “I’m sure Private Jenkins won’t mind waiting for Ensign Stewart.” She said.

 “Yeah, that’s fine.” Stewart remarked, trying to keep his cool and not come off too embarrassed, “Do you want to go now, Ezrah?”

Alcott smiled and nodded. “Let me get changed into some normal clothes not that wearing medical gowns isn’t attractive, but I do have a reputation to maintain!”

Ben-Ami laughed at his joking around and placed a gentle reassuring hand on his shoulder. “That’s good to hear Ezrah. Go home, get something to eat, rest and I’ll visit you tomorrow.”

“Thanks Ro-fa.” He said sincerely and leaned in to hug her. 

She hugged him back. “You’re welcome Ezrah.” She whispered back before letting go of him.

“So where you taking Liam tonight?” Alcott asked as he and Ensign Stewart walked down the corridor of E deck towards his quarters.

Stewart just moaned inwards. “Can we talk about something else besides my romantic life?”

“So it is romantic between you?” Alcott quickly said.

“We’ve only seen each other for less than twenty-four hours.” He replied with a sigh. “I don’t know what it is.”

“Sounds like love as well as fast work!” Alcott replied as they passed Ensign Hennessey escorting a civilian towards the lift. “Who was that?” He asked to check out the guy with their communications officer.

“Some civilian, maybe Hennessey is helping him out with a communication problem?” Stewart guessed as they turned down the junction and approached Alcott’s quarters. “Here we are.” He said.

They entered the room and Alcott almost seemed apprehensive about going in, however he soon stood in the middle of it checking it out for any dangers. 

“What do you want to eat?” Stewart asked, interrupting him out of his thoughts.

Taking a breath in, Alcott stopped looking around and focussed back on his escort. “You know what,” He started. “I’m more tired than hungry, I can call the galley at some point and see if there’s anything they can put together for me.”

Not wanting to push his patient any more, Stewart just nodded. “Okay, I’ll tell Chef Lawson and her staff to expect a call from you at some point or to at least put something aside for you.”

“Thanks Niall.” Alcott said with a smile. “Now go find Liam and have some fun with him before the captain places the ship at tactical alert again.”

 “If you need me, give me a call.” Stewart said one more time before leaving Alcott. The pilot sat down on his bed after Steward had left, and the door had closed. Lying back, he looked up on the ceiling and sighed. Wondering if he could make any sense to what had happened to him and why.

In the silent confines of her office Major Yu was updating her daily log when the doorbell went off. She reached out for the almost empty cup of coffee next to her cupboard and responded to the chime before taking a sip. “Yeah, come in.” She shouted, still focussed on proofreading her report. The door parted open, allowing for the light from the MACO briefing room to bleed through the almost dark room. A silhouette appeared at the door and stepped through the threshold.

“Sorry to disturb you Major but Staff Sergeant Iyer wanted me to pass this on to you.” Spoke Private Jenkins in the doorway.

Yu kept her focus on what she was reading and just waved for him to come in further before speaking. “Thanks Liam.” She said in a casual tone. In all fairness she was meant to be off duty but with the recent call from the captain’s sister’s ship she was preparing herself to return to active duty once the ship got underway. 

The young soldier passed her a data-tablet. “He said all of our units are on assignment and ready. He mentioned you would know what that meant.”

She took the tablet in the hand she had used to wave him in with and looked at the title of the document saved on it. It contained their current deployment of the MACOs across the ship. She already knew what the plan was as she had created it herself. “That’s great Liam, nice work.” She remarked as she stopped staring at her computer screen and looked over her shoulder at the young soldier. “In fact I’ve heard great things about you in the past forty-eight hours, Private Jenkins. Not only from your efforts on the Mayflower, but your hard work helping out in sickbay. I hear you’ve requested to finish your training to become a field medic?”

“Yes ma’am. Ensign Stewart has agreed to it if you’re happy for me to take training under him.” Jenkins replied and then realised what he said at the end. “I mean for him to help me to study for the final exams I didn’t pass.”

Yu smirked at his fumble. She pulled the chair that was nearby over and gestured for him to sit down. “Liam, sit down.” She instructed. Hesitantly he did and remained rigid in the chair. “Relax will ya?” Yu insisted. He did so. “Now look Liam I’m not one of those leaders that gets involved in their people’s private lives but I want to offer you some advice, from someone who has first-hand experience of a career impacting on a relationship.”

“Okay.” Jenkins said nervously before taking a gulp.

She placed a reassuring hand on his knee. “Seriously Liam, chill out. This isn’t a lecture and this isn’t me telling you off. In fact look,” She paused as she stood up, took off her uniform jacket. “I’m not Major Yu now, I’m just plain Vicktoria Yu. Alright?”

 “Okay ma’am.” He replied back.

She rolled her eyes, finding the young man’s response pretty adorable. “Liam do you know why you were picked for Challenger?” She realised she needed to calm his nervous disposition before actually sharing her advice. 

 “Umm…no.”

Yu relaxed back into her chair, she crossed her legs over each other and placed her hands in her lap. “Well Captain Karim and I were talking a lot before I took my posting here and before her death. When she sent me the files of who she wanted on the MACO unit yours was on top with the simple note attached to it that said: without a doubt.” Yu recounted. “When we spoke she said to me she was so impressed with the number of letters from your training officers. Colonel Horayne at Jupiter Station said even though you didn’t pass your field medic exams you had a lot of potential. Captain Karim and I were both impressed by the fact you wanted to better yourself. That’s also why today Captain Burton has placed a commendation in your file.”

“What?” Jenkins replied with shock. “He did what?”

“A commendation for your fast response in helping those on the Mayflower. Now back to what I was originally going to say, some advice. I think it’s great you and Ensign Stewart have struck up a close bond and I encourage you to have a healthy relationship, but don’t rush into anything. Take it one step at a time and enjoy learning from him about becoming a medic. That’s coming from someone who placed their career before a loved one. It can mess it up if you rush in to it all. Can you promise me that Liam?”

He nodded with a sense of keenness. “I can ma’am. I promise you that and thanks for the advice.”

“Good and do me a favour, don’t get caught out by the captain again even if you are off duty!” Yu said with a cheeky wink as she gestured for him to leave.

He stood up and nervously laughed at that one off. “I’ll do my best, Major.” He turned round to leave the room.

Yu turned round to look back at her screen and stopped to look over her shoulder and called Liam back. “Oh and Liam,”

He stopped, turned round and looked back at her. “Yes ma’am?”

 “Well done for bagging a cutie!” She said with a cheeky smile and wink.

While at the same time blushing Jenkins laughed and before he left Yu’s company he responded, “Thanks ma’am. He is pretty cute!”

The warm evening air hit Secretary Campbell as she walked out onto the terrace balcony with a glass of Denobulan blue champagne in her right hand. For a moment she just wanted to be alone to collect her thoughts. She looked out at the night sky before her. Apart from having more than one moon, Denobula’s night sky looked very much like Earth’s. She smiled at the slight comfort it brought her.  She enjoyed how the Denobulan day was longer than Earth’s as the evenings dragged out. It had been their second day on the trot having dinner with the Premier. The dinner itself had already finished, but the after-dinner events were now carrying on. 

As she reflected she felt that today had been a good day for her and her team of representatives. They had decided they would be here for another day before leaving to head back to Earth to prepare for the final talks to sign the Coalition Compact. Besides the quarrel with her husband, the rest of the day had gone by without incident except for the departure of Challenger to respond to a distress call. 

“There you are Madilyn.” A female voice said behind her.

So much for private time, the Foreign Secretary thought to herself before turning round to see Ambassador Margerit approaching her. “Margerit, everything okay?”

The Andorian woman smiled back at her. “I was going to ask you the same thing.” She said coming to stand next to her and leaning against the balcony’s edge. “You haven’t spoken much today or seemed yourself.”

Appreciating her kindness Campbell responded with a grateful smile. “I think this trip has taken a lot out of me.”

“Me and you both.” Margerit replied, raising her glass of blue champagne before taking a sip from it. “But I sense there’s more to you just being tired Madilyn.”

“I didn’t realise Andorians were telepathic as well?” Campbell replied, trying to avoid answering the question at the same time taking a sip from her own glass.

“I’m pretty sure there has been some cross-breeding between the Andorians and Aenar at one point many years ago.” The Andorian zhen joked back with before becoming serious. “Like the ice-cutters that would circumnavigate my home world years ago, I’ll cut straight to the point Madilyn. What has happened between you and Mister Campbell?”

“Is it that obvious?” The Earth politician asked back as she leant against the balcony.

Margerit gave out a slight chuckle. “No my dear, it’s only noticeable between those of us females who head-up important state offices.  Ambassador Soron and Premier Nerlox don’t have a whiff of it, but Ambassador Gouth and I have both noticed it. Being the wives of men who can’t always understand us powerful women is a shared trait across all species.”

Now it was Campbell’s turn to laugh. “Rob and I had a disagreement over how he spoke to me revolving around the issue of Captain Burton and his crew.”

“Ah say no more my dear.” Margerit said softly as she understood the issue all too well. “A protective husband like yours is a rare commodity. Take it from someone who has two of them who are both protective as well as quick to show jealousy! Your husband may not admit it, he may not even realise it on a conscious level, but deep down he sees Captain Burton as a threat not only to himself but to you as well. A brash, young, handsome pink-skin like Burton is an upcoming star in your media and from the looks of things the Denobulan media too! Burton and his crew are going to become heroes of our generation. They will be the ones that are going out there and showing off to the galaxy that our Coalition is one of great importance and worthwhile to be proud of. While it will be down to the likes of us to keep it together and make it stronger.” She said. “So I can understand why your husband feels the need to protect your interests. He loves you and that was noticeable the day I met you both. He adores you and worships the ground you walk on. So my advice my dear is to let him be protective but us strong female leaders need to keep our men in line, so don’t fret over how you dealt with your squabble earlier. He knows his place now and you know yours. Build upon it from there.” Margerit advised before stopping when she saw Robert Campbell walking out to them both in a tuxedo.

“Ladies, sorry to interrupt you but you both are being summoned by Premier Nerlox to his private study along with Ambassadors Soron and Gouth.” Robert said in a calm tone, looking between them.

“Ah, probably to share that glass of Denobulan whiskey he promised us earlier!” Margerit said as she touched Madilyn’s arm with a sense of assurance and gave her a warm friendly smile.

Madilyn placed her hand over it and returned the smile before letting go and watching Margerit leave them to head back inside the residence. She looked at her husband. He spoke first after watching the Andorian ambassador walk away from them. “Everything okay?”

She nodded. “Just some diplomat-to-diplomat chat.” She responded with. “Are we okay?”

Robert just leaned in and kissed her cheek. “We’re always okay.” He whispered into her ear before taking her hand to lead her back inside.

“Ah you’re here.” Nerlox said as Campbell entered his private study. He gestured for her to take a seat in one of the armchairs in front of his desk with the other foreign diplomats.

“What’s this about Nerlox?” She asked.

“I’ll leave the talking to Admiral Gardner.” The Denobulan leader said as he pressed a button on his desk and the screen behind him changed from showing an image of the seal belonging to his office to that of Admiral Gardner back on Earth.

 “Admiral Gardner, what’s going on?” Campbell asked, taking the lead as he was calling from her homeworld.

“Madam Secretary, I’m sorry to interrupt your evening however we have a situation that you all need to be aware of.” He said before tapping a button that zoomed his image out to reveal him standing in his office along with Prime Minister Samuels, Foreign Ministers Soval and Thoris as well as Ambassador Gral. 

“Nathan?” Campbell said, surprised to see her superior.

“Evening to you all.” Earth’s Prime Minister said. “What Admiral Gardner is about to explain may affect us all and the Coalition signing.”

Gardner cleared his throat. “As you all know the starship Challenger left to respond to a distress call from a convoy of two Earth colony ships bound for the Archer system. When they arrived they ended up engaging a Romulan ship.”

“The Romulans?” Gouth said, stunned. “Was it another drone attack?” She asked, referring to the incursion that all of their governments had allied together to deal with the previous year.

“No Madam Ambassador,” Gardner answered quickly. “This was a single Bird-of-Prey type of vessel. They had severely disabled both colony ships, however with the arrival of Challenger and the Vulcan combat cruiser T’Paal they retreated. Captain Burton reported they were helping with repairs to the colony ships before they escorted them the rest of the way. We haven’t heard from the Challenger since the Gemini docked with them momentarily to pick up a passenger.”

“The Vulcan High Command hasn’t heard from the T’Paal either.” Minister Soval added.

Ambassador Soron spoke up, after hearing Soval’s revelation his left eyebrow rose. “Curious, are we to assume then the Romulans have attacked them again?”

“It’s a possibility.” Gardner grimaced. “Just over three hours ago we also received a call from the starship Voyager informing us that four Romulan Birds-of-Prey had entered the system. We haven’t heard from them either. We can’t even raise the starship Republic either and that was heading to the Archer system too.”

“Is there any good news in this Admiral?” Margerit asked, hopefully and partially sarcastically.

“I’m afraid not Madam Ambassador.” Gardner responded with.

Campbell rose from her chair and stood in front of the screen as she considered the situation for a moment. “So, what’s the plan of action?”

It was Prime Minister Samuels who spoke up. “At the moment there aren’t many allied vessels nearby to investigate in time. However…”

“The Denobulan fleet is closer.” Premier Nerlox finished from where he stood at the back of the group. 

Samuels nodded, glad they were thinking along the same lines as each other. “Premier, I know it’s a lot for us to ask from, but I assure you I wouldn’t be asking this of our Denobulan friends if it wasn’t urgent. Just to know what has happened in and near the Archer system is important, not only for Earth’s security but for yours as well.”

“I understand the implications completely, Mister Prime Minister. I will dispatch a task group to investigate at once, but if they spot any Romulan ships and are outnumbered they will be ordered to fall back to Denobulan space. We can’t afford to lose any more ships today, be it Starfleet or Denobulan.” Nerlox said with conviction.

“We appreciate the gesture greatly Premier. Anything you can do will place Earth in Denobula’s debt.” Samuels said in a very diplomatic tone.

Campbell rolled her eyes at Samuels’ attempt to ensure the Denobulans would remain on track to join the Coalition, including kissing up to them.

Nerlox shook his head. “No we don’t do this to be paid back for. We do this to help out a friend in need.”

“Can I suggest then we send the Kemaree as well?” Margerit proposed. “The vessel is fully equipped to deal with reconnaissance missions and can easily go up against two Birds of Prey.”

“It’s your ship Margerit.” Thoris spoke for the first time from where he stood next to Soval. “It’s also yours and Secretary Campbell’s ride home!” He reminded her.

“I’m sure we can depend on our good friend Ambassador Gouth,” She said looking to the Tellarite woman sitting next to her, “in giving us a lift home if they are unsuccessful.”

Gouth nodded. “I would be honoured to have you and Secretary Campbell join me as guests on my ship.”

“I propose that we send the Tal’Kit too.” Soval said towards Soron.

“Agreed.” Soron replied.

“Madilyn, without Challenger to ferry you all back I think it’s best we recall you all back to Earth as soon as possible, if Premier Nerlox is happy with that?” Samuels suggested.

“Under the circumstances I agree with you Prime Minister Samuels, the delegation’s safety is important.” Nerlox stated. “Not that I don’t enjoy your company, but there isn’t much for you to do now here on Denobula. We need to hold our referendum regarding the Compact.”

“In fact our presence here may fuel those who oppose the treaty more negatively.” Ambassador Gouth added.

The group of diplomats all agreed about bringing their trip to a close within moments. Campbell had hoped to stay on the planet for a bit longer, but she was no longer the Earth Ambassador to Denobula and she was needed back on the homeworld.

“We’ll send ships to rendezvous with you as soon as we can.” Samuels said to the group. “Godspeed.” He said before closing the channel.

Campbell sighed before turning to look at everyone. They all had similar expressions of concerns painted on their faces, including Soron. She prayed that this event wouldn’t affect the outcome of the Denobulan referendum on joining the Coalition.

The ready room door chime went off like an unpleasant warning. 

Lloyd Burton chucked the mini-rugby ball he had in his hands toward the wall that his desk sat up against. He also tossed the data-tablet he’d been reading toward the top of his desk. The ball had bounced off the wall, landing somewhere on the deck plating while the handheld computer device landed squarely on top of other similar tablets and books that lay scattered on his desk. It was just centimetres away from hitting the photo frame that held a picture of him with his siblings. Roman had sent it to him as a parting gift; it was an image of them all the night they had met up with their parents at the family home before Challenger’s launch. 

“Enter.” He said after jabbing at the desktop intercom button beside his main computer interface. The door opened a second afterwards with a dim inflated hiss. 

Commander Levesque stepped across the raised doorway; her hair now pulled back into a bun, an unusual look for her since Burton had known her. Normally she kept it in a ponytail on duty and on the odd occasions she allowed it to hang loose by her shoulders. Directly behind her was Sub Commander T’Plau, her Vulcan features as emotionless as normal, her hands grasped behind her back. 

The door closed behind his visitors, and Burton swirled his chair around towards them without making a move to get up. “Nicole. T’Plau. What’s up?”

 “We’re about five minutes away from having to part company with our hitchhikers.” Levesque reported, and then glanced towards T’Plau’s direction.

“The T’Paal is ready to proceed too. Radio silence remains in effect. Echo Seven intercepted a transmission from both Earth and Vulcan requesting an update from all ships; however no one has responded.” She added. “Our warp profiles are ready to be heightened too.” 

“Excellent.” Burton looked between his two officers. He could see something was bothering Levesque but not T’Plau, she was still someone he needed to get to know or she was truly Vulcan and didn’t show her emotions at all. “Out with it.” He ordered, primarily towards his first officer.

“Sir?” Levesque said, trying to remain coy as possible.

He rolled his eyes and shook his head as he pushed the piles of paperwork he had collected on his desk into some tidy pile possible. “Commander in the past few weeks I’ve got to know you well and you’re forgetting I used to be in the same position both of you are in now: bringing something to the captain’s attention that they might not like. So as I said: out with it.”

Levesque sighed before speaking. “Permission to speak freely sir?” She asked and got a nod from the captain. “Commander Stanton, Sub Commander T’Plau and I have a few issues about our game plan.”

“And they are?” Burton asked he didn’t have time to play twenty questions with them. “Stop beating around the bush and just say them.”

“Primarily sir, are you fit to command this mission.” T’Plau said in a blunt manner.

Burton looked between the two of them. “Thank you for your candid answer Sub Commander. Why are you concerned about my fitness to command this mission?”

“In the past twenty four hours you’ve only slept for five hours, besides your exhaustion we are about to rescue your sister’s vessel from an extremely hostile race. On top of that I believe your youngest brother is serving on the Republic. Obviously you have a strong emotional attachment to ensure this mission is successful to avoid their deaths. These factors could compromise your judgement in making appropriate command decisions.” T’Plau explained. “On top of that you have assigned an untested pilot to fly your ship.”

Burton smirked at T’Plau’s concerns. “Thank you Sub Commander.” He looked to Levesque. “Nicole anything else to add?”

She shook her head. “No sir, she took the words out of my mouth.”

“Well I appreciate your concerns and if any of you want to object to my command decisions regarding this then I will note them in my log, if not here is my response to all of that.” Burton returned with a slight pause. “Before you came in I had just had a brief nap and I’ve had Ro-fa Ben-Ami give me a stimulant to keep me awake and I promise you all once this is over I am going to sleep for eight hours uninterrupted.” He turned to look at T’Plau. “On top of that not only do I have an untested pilot sat at the helm of my ship but an untested tactical officer sat at my armoury station. Should I relieve her of her duties too?”

T’Plau raised one of her eyebrows as she considered his response. “I believe sir I see your point, if not completely accurate.”

“Good.” Burton now rose from his chair. “Where do we stand with our…what did Michael call it?” He asked looking to Levesque.

“Grey mode.” She answered.

“Right, grey mode?” He asked as he straightened out his jacket.

“Mayflower, Haig and Raven are all in grey mode and will resume their separate courses into the Archer system under warp one.” Levesque stated. “That’s once they’ve cleared the warp bubbles of both Challenger and T’Paal.”

The plan to get the civilian ships in un-detected was for the three civilian ships to ride inside the warp bubbles of Challenger and T’Paal and when it was time they would all drop out of warp. The civilian ships would resume their courses, masking their energy signatures at lower warp speeds to enter the system from different trajectories heading to the second moon of Archer IV to hide in. Meanwhile, Challenger and T’Paal would jump back to high warp, coming out of their grey mode and displaying a high warp profile. The Romulans would see them and hopefully take the bait of investigating them, giving the other ships the time to enter the system without being seen by the enemy ships. Challenger had been able to contact the Republic and they would be doing a similar thing as they entered the system. Hopefully Voyager and Essex were still operational and would see them too.

“Then let’s get this show on the road.” Burton said with eagerness as he gestured for them to exit his ready room and return to the bridge.

Burton stood at the centre of his bridge, the apparent eye of calmness in the midst of a highly disciplined storm. Surrounded by the bustle of his crew, he watched the main viewer with a sense of awe of what they were hoping to achieve. Burton felt the deceleration through the soles of his boots. He looked down at the man sitting before him. Acting-Ensign John Conrad looked at ease at the helm. Their meeting earlier on had gone well; Burton had left himself a mental note to owe Captain Montague a bottle of whiskey for making his job at talking Conrad into taking the temporary reassignment an easy one. 

“Good work Ensign Conrad.” Burton said gently, patting his right shoulder.

“Thanks sir.” Conrad said with a smile of appreciation.

Burton now sat down in his chair. He blinked a couple of times. Stanton’s grey mode had meant that nearly every system on the ship that didn’t need to be on was switched off and everything else was powered down to the lowest of levels, including the lighting. He tapped the intercom button in his chair. “Bridge to engineering, Commander Stanton are we ready to proceed to phase two?”

“We are sir.” Stanton replied confidently.

“Then please raise the lights and get us back to normal operating levels.” Burton ordered.

“With pleasure captain.” The chief engineer said before closing the channel.

Burton looked down at the helm. “Ensign set a course for the last known location of the Romulan task group, maximum warp!”

“Course plotted sir.” Conrad announced after a second.

“Sub Commander T’Plau, take us to tactical alert and Commander Levesque begin scanning for the Romulans and our own ships.” Burton commanded. 

A round of acknowledgements from them were heard and Challenger moved out with the T’Paal hot on its heels and eventually catching up to be on its side.

“By now the Romulans should be picking us up, we’re lit up like a Christmas tree.” Levesque announced as she kept her focus on the readouts coming through from the sensors.

“Thirty seconds until we reach the coordinates sir.” Conrad said, still focussing on his console.

Burton’s stomach flipped over as he remained sat up in his chair, rubbing his chin with his left hand to remain calm while his right hand hugged him around his waist. Where were the Romulans? He pondered; he didn’t think they would leave the Archer system that easily. They attacked the colony convoy for a reason and his money was on the fact they were trying to stop humans from colonising the Archer system. 

Imperial Bird-of-Prey ChR Dhivael, on the outskirts of the Archer system

“Commander, scanners have detected the Ch’lenjer incoming along with the T’Paal.” Morek spoke as he moved from the science station back to his posting at the communications station.

T’Voras had been circulating the Dhivael’s control centre, overseeing how they would support the four other ships in the task group with their task of destroying Gai’h’er-mne. The moment he heard Morek’s report he stopped what he had been doing and moved over to his chair and sat in it. “Location?”

“They will enter the Gai’h system in less than seha ihnerha.” Morek answered. “Commander T’Met is ordering the task force to intercept them.” He added.

“Proceed then. Let us finish what we started with the Hevams.” T’Voras said with some satisfaction. “Battle-stations!” 

Voyager NV-03, in orbit of Archer IV-B

Taking a deep breath in to calm her nerves as well as her unborn son, Captain Madison Burton pushed her shoulders back as she stepped out onto her bridge from the lift. She had been taking a break from the current situation they were in. After almost three hours calling in for help from both her brothers’ ships neither Voyager nor Essex had heard anything; however they were currently running both ships in a silent mode. Both she and Captain Shumar had decided to keep themselves hidden after beaming up the teams from Archer IV. Once they knew it was safe to make a run for it they would leave the system at high warp, heading back to friendlier territory. In the last couple of hours another Romulan ship had joined the others, they were still circling the outer edges of the system like vultures. 

“Report?” She asked, making her way over to her chair.

“The cavalry has just arrived.” Commander Doyle replied with a smile on her face. 

“Who?” Madison said as she got comfortable in her chair. Obviously her unborn son didn’t want her to get comfortable in their current situation.

“Challenger with a Vulcan combat cruiser.” Doyle announced as she sat down at her science station. “They’re making quite a show about their entrance, their warp profiles are higher than normal.”

“Lloyd was always a show off, but knowing my little brother he is doing it for a reason.” Madison commented.

“He’s not your only brother making a show too.” Doyle remarked after her sensors beeped something else at her. “Sensors have just picked up the Republic too – doing the same thing with their warp profile.”

Madison considered what was happening and soon put the dots together. “Lloyd is making it clear to the Romulans of their arrival. Hopefully he has worked out we’ve been in hiding and now he is giving us time to come out to join them.” 

“Are you certain?” Doyle asked apprehensively.

“Oh for sure.” Madison said as she looked down at her pilot. “Ensign Hu, plot a course to join Challenger and our Vulcan friends. Commander Doyle, inform Captain Shumar to follow our lead. Tactical alert!” She commanded.

Republic NV-02, en route to Archer IV

Lieutenant Seth Burton looked down at his controls, he felt a bit of sweat appear on his forehead. He truly hoped Lloyd knew what he was doing. They were about to go up against the Romulans. He had kept his eyes on his sensor readings, he had noticed the trajectory Challenger and T’Paal were coming in from and was slowly nudging the Republic to join them. Another beep and he saw the Romulans. His heart skipped another beat when another beeped went off. 

“Captain.” He said grabbing his superior officer’s attention. “Voyager and Essex have just appeared on sensors sir.” Seth announced, pleased his sister’s ship was still intact.

Challenger NX-03

Burton sat in his chair with the biggest grin on his face. “Ensign Hennessey, open a channel to the Romulan fleet.”

Hennessey responded with a nod before whispering, “Channel open, sir.”

“Romulan ships, this is Captain Burton of the Earth starship Challenger.” He said as he rose from his chair and stared at the image of the five Romulan ships before him, one of them being the one they had engaged earlier. In only a few seconds, the entire allied group would be within simultaneous weapons fire. “This system has been claimed by the United Earth Commonwealth. You have violated our space and I formally request you remove your presence from here at once. To refuse my request will be considered an act of aggression against the United Earth Commonwealth and its allies.”

A beep at Levesque station caught Burton’s attention as well as his first officer. He signalled to mute the channel to Hennessey. Levesque smiled after reading the sensors. “Sir long range sensors are detecting four ships coming in hot, two Denobulan cruisers, a Vulcan battleship and an Andorian warship.”

Burton copied her grin as he nodded to his communications officer to re-open the channel. “By now your long range sensors should be detecting more ships incoming; those are ships belonging to our allies. Now do you want me to tell them to come in firing or will you leave?” Burton asked and then used another hand gesture to Hennessey to cut the channel. “Get a weapons lock T’Plau.” He ordered.

“Yes sir.” The Vulcan armoury officer said.

“Sir I’m picking up movement from the Romulan ships.” Conrad reported.

“They’re leaving?” Hennessey asked first.

“No, it could be worse. Looks like they’re launching smaller attack craft in all directions. Heading for us and the other ships.” Conrad said.

“Ensign, evasive manoeuvres.” Burton commanded as he sat back down in his chair. The ship shuddered under the minor pressure of the small attackers, opening fire on them. 

“Those fighters are no bigger than shuttlepods sir, but are armed with plasma cannons under each of their wings.” T’Plau announced. “Shall I return fire?”

“Please do, Sub Commander!” Burton said with a sense of urgency in his voice. “Jack, move us around and push our way past them. We need to show their carriers we aren’t afraid of taking them on.”

“Understood sir.” Conrad said as he moved the ship into a better posture.

“Ned, tell Voyager, Republic and Essex to engage the fighters. Then tell the T’Paal to join us in taking on their carriers.” Burton ordered.

“Do you have authority to take command of a fleet, sir?” Conrad asked.

Burton stared at his pilot and was about to reply to that when Levesque did. “Starfleet regulation one-nine-one allows the captain with the tactical superiority to assume command in a combat situation involving more than one ship when there isn’t a higher ranking officer.”

“Oh!” Conrad replied, realising that Challenger filled that category. “Well let’s show those Romulans some of our tactical superiority.” He said and pushed the ship forward to take on the enemy ships.

Challenger rumbled under pressure as the Romulans hit it from several angles. 

Levesque frowned at her console as she worked at it. “Sir I’m detecting high amounts of nuclear radiation coming from one of the Romulan ships.”

“Nuclear?” Burton asked as he rose from his chair to look at her readings.

“Its energy signature is consistent with an atomic warhead.”  Levesque added before looking up at him. “You don’t think they’re going too.” She stopped as she looked back at the captain, the two of them almost sharing the same dreadful thought.

“The Romulans are highly aggressive in their tactics.” T’Plau said as she continued to fire the ship’s weapons at the Romulans. “There’s no way they could place a beachhead here at Archer Four with only five ships this far from their territory. I can only predict they plan to prevent Earth from gaining the planet by destroying it with nuclear warheads.”

Burton hated what he heard. “Jack lay in a course for that ship; I don’t want to give them the opportunity.”

“I’m regretting meeting you now Mister Hennessey.” Conrad remarked towards the communications officer. “Course plotted sir.”

Hennessey just gave him a wry smile as he held on for dear life as the ship rocked more.

“Engage!” Burton ordered quickly and took a seat back in his chair, watching events unfold in front of his very own eyes.

Challenger lurched forward, dodging in and out of the Romulan fighters, heading towards its target.

Firstmoon, Fesoan Lor’veln Year 463

Saturday, March 1st, 2155

I.G.S Kemaree, entering the Archer system

The perks of being a retired/honouree General of the Imperial Guard Margerit thought as she sat comfortably in the centre chair of the Kemaree. The ship had left Denobula ages ago and she changed her mind; she wanted to lead the search for Challenger and the other allied ships. Her staff had pleaded with her not to do such a thing but she felt that even now the Kemaree’s crew needed her expertise, especially as a majority of their command staff had been severely brutalised by the Orions and were still recovering in the medical wards. 

“General!” spoke Lieutenant Thalas from the tactical post. “It would appear our Human and Vulcan allies have engaged the Romulans!”

Margerit rose to stand in the centre of the command deck. “Take us to Condition One.” She ordered before hitting the nearest intercom device. “Command deck to all hands, battle stations!”

The lights on the command deck dimmed and a darker blue hue filled the room followed by the normal battle alarm alerting the crew of the current status the ship was in. 

“Lieutenant, coordinate our attack with the Denobulan and Tal’kit tactical officers.” Margerit commanded as she sat back down in her chair. “Lieutenant Benjis move us into protect the flank of Challenger. All weapons fire at will!”

The Kemaree swiftly and elegantly moved in on their targets and began to shoot at the Romulan fighters as they passed. The three other Denobulan ships followed suit and the allied force of ships began to reduce the number of enemy ships. 

Challenger NX-03

“It’s the Andorians, Vulcan and Denobulans sir!” Levesque announced over the commotion filling the Challenger’s bridge. “They’ve disabled eight Romulan fighters and are giving us and the T’Paal protection from incoming fire.”

Burton grinned at the change of luck in their fight. “Excellent.” He responded before looking over at T’Plau. “Sub Commander, open fire on that Romulan ship with the atomic warhead, disable their launching mechanism.”

Challenger’s weapons streaked across space, hitting against the shielding Romulan Bird-of-Prey that housed the atomic warhead. Every shot slammed into the energy barrier.

“We are running out of time sir, I do not believe we will be able to stop the Romulans from firing their warhead.” T’Plau said as an explosion erupted from the aft section of the bridge.

“Then let’s wait for them to launch the atomic warhead and we destroy that!” Conrad suggested. “Captain if we put enough power into the impulse engines I’ll be able to get us out of the way of the nuclear shockwave …well away from most of the damage we can sustain.”

Burton considered his options. The Romulan Bird-of-Prey was elusive and avoided their attacks well. Their shields were also better supported then the rest of the fleet. “Do it.” He ordered and then looked to Hennessey. “Ensign, inform all allied ships to prepare to fall back in a moment’s notice.”

“They’re launching!” T’Plau announced with urgency.

“Do it, now, now, NOW!” Burton screamed.

Challenger suddenly jerked forward as more power was given to its impulse engines as it chased down the missile that had been fired towards the planet. Seconds later the Earth ship sent a barrage of photonic torpedoes and phase cannon fire in its direction. Multiple hits struck against the partially shielding rocket, however they soon failed as the last torpedo struck home. The allied fleet quickly fled, jumping to high speeds as the explosion erupted and blasted out in all directions in a massive shockwave.

Jack Conrad quickly pushed the button from the helm of Challenger and as he was ready for it the ship bolted away from it, riding the edge of the shockwave like a trained surfer skimming the edges of a huge current.

After the ship rocked from side to side several more times Captain Burton spoke up. “Report?”

“The atomic warhead was destroyed!” T’Plau said with a slight sense of pride in their accomplishment.

Levesque then followed up with more information. “The Romulans have taken heavy damage and are plotting a rapid retreat course.”

“I won’t be able to chase after them sir. Warp drive is down.” Conrad said, anticipating his captain’s command. “And we’re not the only allied ship in a bad position.”

Burton got out of his chair and walked down to the side of his pilot. “Don’t worry Ensign, for now let us lick our wounds. I’m sure the Romulans got our message that we mean business.” He said after patting Conrad’s back to congratulate him with his efforts.

“Once again Ambassador, thank you.” 

“My pleasure Captain Burton.” Ambassador Margerit said with a sincere smile. “I do not believe that is the last we have heard of the Romulans. I only fear what else they have to throw at us. This is the beginning of something ugly with the Romulans. Mark my words!”

Burton nodded with a grimace expression. “For our sakes Ambassador I hope you’re wrong and we can find a peaceful solution, if that’s possible with the Romulans.”

“One day perhaps but not today and to coin the phrase your good Secretary Campbell used on our recent diplomatic mission, I wouldn’t bet on it.” Margerit said, shaking her index finger in the air. 

“Talking of which I hear congratulations are in order. The Denobulans are returning to the table for the talks to sign the Coalition Compact.” Burton offered as they continued on their walk down the corridors of E deck towards the starboard docking port.

Margerit inclined her head. “I wouldn’t applaud just yet, Captain. They still need to have their referendum and I fear that the incident that has happened here may not force the others to rush the signing ahead. It’s a possibility that the Denobulans and other races that are reluctant to sign now will be late signatories.”

“So where are you heading now? Back to Earth?” Burton asked.

“No I’ll be heading back to Andoria. I need to focus my efforts on my campaign to win the Chancellorship in the upcoming election.” She replied as they turned down another corridor. “However we are travelling back with the T’Paal for part of our journey. I believe a member of your crew has requested temporary quarters on the Kemaree for part of our journey before transferring to the T’Paal.”

Reluctantly nodding to the fact, Burton answered. “Yes, my former chief helm officer is taking leave and is returning home to deal with some family and personal matters.”

The two leaders soon approached the docking port hatch and stopped in their tracks. Burton turned to the ambassador and extended his hand to shake hers. “Again thank you for all your help Madam Ambassador. We owe you one.”

Margerit took his hand and clasped it firmly. “It was a pleasure captain and I look forward to the next time we meet. Perhaps you’ll join me in the Andorian Chancellor’s Mansion when I am elected for a glass of Andorian ale?”

“I would consider it an honour Ambassador.” Burton said diplomatically. 

“Until then Captain Burton, I bid you farewell and safe travels.” Margerit said with a slight bow of her head and walked towards the hatch after it hissed open, allowing her to leave his ship.

Burton watched her go on board and turned round to see a sight he wasn’t looking forward to. Approaching him, now no longer in uniform was Ezrah Alcott. Slumped over his shoulder were two large bags containing his belongings. Walking besides him was Acting-Ensign John Conrad. The two men were talking and appeared to be sharing laughs when they both saw the captain. Behind them were other members of the crew who were there to see the young pilot off.

The current moment would be a bitter one for the crew of the Challenger. They were saying goodbye to one of their own. Alcott was returning home. Ezrah was heading back to Earth to help his mother care for his father as well as deal with his own issues surrounding the kidnapping. The ensign had tried to resign but Burton had talked him around it, convincing him to take an extended leave of absence instead. Burton had promised to arrange it with Starfleet Command. Admiral Gardner had agreed to the request and now Alcott was leaving them. It was long until the two pilots stopped before the captain and a few seconds later others were there wishing Alcott well and a safe journey home. The whole affair was over in a few seconds when Ezrah finally stood before his captain.

“Request permission to disembark captain.” The pilot asked.

Burton extended his hand towards the young man. “Permission granted.” The captain replied and shook Ezrah’s hand. “Safe journey home Ezrah.”

“Thank you sir.” Alcott said sincerely, trying his best to push back the tears and the emotions. He looked at his fellow shipmates and waved them goodbye after Commander Stanton opened the airlock for him. The airlock soon closed on him, allowing him to board the Andorian ship. There was a round of hissing as the airlock was sealed and then there was a beep at the controls telling them that he was on board and the Andorian ship was disengaging from Challenger.

For a moment everyone stood quietly before Burton looked around at them all.

“Dismissed.” He quietly ordered. It was late and he didn’t want a ship filled with a tired crew.

Burton looked at the rest of his senior staff who hung back a bit, all showing their deepest regret that Alcott had left their community so suddenly as well as in remorse for the reasons why he was leaving them all. It was the second one to leave them in a matter of days. Nevertheless Burton walked up to Conrad. “Mister Conrad, walk with me please.” He requested.

Conrad unquestioningly followed the captain as they walked away from the airlock and back down the corridor he had walked down only moments ago with Alcott.

“When we spoke yesterday about your transfer, we said it would be a temporary one.” Burton started as he placed his hands behind his back. He looked to Conrad. “I want to make it a permanent one.”

Conrad stopped and stared at his captain, who also stopped in his track and turned to look at the pilot. “Are you serious sir?”

Nodding once, Burton continued. “I can see why Captain Montague raved about you so much when I spoke to him. You’ve got quite the talent and Starfleet was foolish to push you out four years ago. The position of Chief Helm Officer is open and I want you to take it.”

Conrad stepped forward and extended his hand towards the British captain. “The honour would be mine to serve you captain.”

“Well then Mister Conrad I hereby promote you to the full rank of Ensign.” He took the pilot’s hand. “Congratulations.”

“Thank you sir.” He returned before letting go. “If you don’t mind I would like to let Captain Montague know my decision.”

Burton gestured for him to go. “Please.” He said as he watched him leave his side. “But make sure you report for your duty shift in an hour’s time.”

Conrad looked over his shoulder and smiled with a nod followed by a mocked salute before walking at a quicker pace to make his call. 

Three other members of his senior staff soon approached Burton: Commanders Levesque and Stanton with Sub Commander T’Plau.

“Did he take the job?” Levesque asked as they all stopped to watch the pilot walk down the corridor away from them.

Burton looked at his first officer. “He did and I think he will fit in nicely.” He then looked at T’Plau. “Talking of which, Sub Commander would you care to join us for breakfast?”

T’Plau rose an eyebrow at the unexpected request. “Thank you sir, I accept.”

Levesque entwined her arm to go under Stanton’s arm as the four officers began walking down the corridor heading to the mess hall. “Sub Commander consider yourself lucky this morning, normally around oh-seven hundred hours these two,” She said, pointing between Burton and Stanton, “Are trying to be all macho and outdo each other with a morning jog before breakfast.”

“Curious, I did not read in any of my research of human customs that one must jog to get their morning meal?” T’Plau remarked confused.

The three human officers all chuckled at this. “I think I’m going to enjoy having you with us for breakfast, Sub Commander.” Levesque stated as they approached the doors to the mess hall.

“I look forward to our time together as well.” The Vulcan officer returned.

Half an hour later the four officers were eating their breakfasts in the captain’s private dining hall. “So with our Denobulan friends leaving one of their ships behind here along with Voyager, Republic and Essex please say sir we’re not staying too?” Stanton asked in between a mouthful of toast.

Burton placed his mug of tea down after taking a sip to answer the question. “No thankfully Starfleet are quite eager to let us get going on our mission of exploration, once you’ve got that warp drive up and running again!”

Stanton winked at his captain. “Don’t worry sir it will be up and running before lunch time just as I promised.”

“Bridge to Captain Burton.” Spoke Hennessey’s voice over the intercom.

Burton placed the napkin on his lap on the table. “I swear that man is bucking for a promotion, he is always on duty early.” He said to no one in particular as he stood up and walked over to the intercom. “Go ahead ensign.”

“Sorry to disturb you sir but we’ve just received news from Earth. Coridan Prime has been attacked.”

Burton stopped and looked over to the others in the room with the same shock they all exhibited. “Get me Admiral Gardner at once ensign.” He ordered before leaving the room to make his way up to the bridge.

Burton hated having to wear his dress uniform today. The entire thing was uncomfortable to wear and in some places it was a bit revealing to the undisciplined mind. He found himself tugging on the collar quite a few times. Nonetheless the occasion was big and he expected to set an example to so many dignitaries. The official treaty signing of the Coalition of Planets had taken place and now the after party was in full swing. Right now he and his crew were part of many that filled the hall where the event was taking place. He and his team had been placed in one of the VIP boxes, high above to witness the signing of the Compact. The dignitaries from Earth, Andoria, Tellar and Vulcan had all agreed to the final documents. Their alliance was born. After the attack on Coridan Prime, some of the worlds involved in the original discussions had chosen not to become founding signatories; Denobula was one of them. That outcome was a bitter one for him and many others. Right now though, Captain Burton was enjoying a glass of champagne standing with some of his command staff.

“You know you can all go and mingle.” He said to them in a mocking tone. Most of them chuckled. Moments later a woman they recognised approached them. 

“Ah, here are my heroes.” Madilyn Campbell said with a warm smile and her arms open to greet the Challenger crew. “It’s good to see you all.” She said, greeting them all with a smile. She too was wearing a formal gown for the large state event. In her hand was also a glass of champagne. She looked at Burton. “Captain, a moment of your time if you would please?” She said.

He nodded and trailed behind her away from the group. “Be good.” He quietly remarked to them all before carrying on in following the Foreign Secretary.

The two of them walked through the busy crowds and around the room until they found a quiet patch. “I just wanted to take this time to thank you for all your efforts back on Denobula.” Campbell stated. “I didn’t get the opportunity to say it before you left to rescue those colony ships and we had left by the time you were returning from Archer Four.”

“You’re welcome ma’am, I’m sorry it wasn’t enough to convince the Denobulans to be one of the founding signatories today.” Burton returned sincerely. 

Campbell waved her hand to say ‘oh well’. “Their people may have said no during their referendum; however their government is planning to sign a trade agreement with all Coalition worlds and it will remain part of the Interspecies Medical Exchange programme. On top of that they still have their signed mutual-defence pact with Vulcan and Earth. Maybe with time they’ll reconsider and join the Coalition.”

Burton raised his glass towards hers. “I’ll toast to that.” He said and the two of them tipped their champagne flutes against each other’s glasses making a slight clinking noise. “So, what will you be focussing on now Madam Secretary?”

Madilyn smiled at his question. “Well I’ll be involved in maintaining our close relationship with the other Coalition worlds, working with my counterparts from the other worlds in particular. However, between us I’m working on a plan to get Alpha Centauri and Draylax to join the Coalition as full members.”

Confused at what she said, Burton asked her. “Doesn’t Alpha Centauri already come under it, being a member of the United Earth Commonwealth?”

“Yes but Alpha Centauri is its own state and is almost independent from the Commonwealth now.” Campbell answered. “Let’s just see where we go with this.”

“Is there any more news about Coridan?” Burton asked before taking a sip from champagne.

“They’re still refusing help from our relief efforts. Enterprise had to be dragged, kicking and screaming back to this event.” She said. “That said though Captain Archer is as committed to this Coalition as much as anyone else.”

“He is definitely an inspiration to us all, especially for us newbie NX-class captains.” Burton said with a wry smile. “I spoke with him earlier and he and his crew are convinced it was the Romulans who attacked Coridan. I have to say I would agree with him considering what we dealt with at Archer Four. They play dirty if they can’t get what they want.”

“Maybe so but we can’t let that guide us into war when there is no evidence the Romulans did attack Coridan. On top of that with Coridan not signing the Compact they are exempt from the mutual-defence agreements. We can’t declare war if they’re not part of us.”

“The injustice of it all.” Burton mumbled. “And what about the incident in the Archer system? Is there going to be a reaction to that?”

Madilyn sighed. “I probably shouldn’t be telling you this until Admiral Gardner does but I do have a higher clearance than him.” She paused. “Again as you were successful in preventing them from actually attacking the soil on Archer Four, the United Earth Cabinet has down-graded the incident as a skirmish between our forces.”

“A skirmish?” Burton repeated, quite infuriated at the comment. It didn’t feel like a skirmish.

“I’m with you on this one captain, but a majority of the cabinet don’t feel it’s worth engaging the Romulans yet.” Campbell said. “For the moment we need to watch and wait. Hopefully that’s the end of the Romulans testing our defences and they’ve got the message we will fight back.”

“Or that could just be the beginning to test the water. Who knows what they’re preparing for us?” Burton said as he finished his glass and placed it down on the table behind him. He didn’t feel happy with her remarks. “Thank you for the company Madam Secretary, I must return to my crew.”

“Lloyd.” Campbell said in a stern voice, allowing for him to leave her without her saying he could go.

He turned to look at her. “Yes ma’am?”

She walked up to him. “Ambassador Margerit said that it would be the likes of you to show everyone that we’re serious about peace and that we can make this coalition work. Please don’t let her down with her words, or let me down with my faith in your abilities.”

Burton half heartedly smiled at this. “I’ll do my best Madam Secretary.”

“That’s all we can ask of you.” Campbell said before nodding to him for him to be excused.

As Burton waded through the crowd back to where he had left some of his crew he felt a hand land on his arm. He stopped to look at who had grabbed him and soon found the owner of the hand to belong to his counterpart from Enterprise. “Captain Archer.” He said after gulping up and into his deep dark brown eyes. 

“Captain Burton.” Archer said, greeting him with a friendly smile and letting go of the man’s arm. “I forgot to say to you earlier that I owe you one.”

“Come again?” Burton asked, looking around to see if there was something he had done in the last minute or so to help the legendary captain out.

Archer slightly chuckled. “For saving the Archer system.” He said.

“Oh!” Burton said, realising what he was talking about. “Well I’m sure when they name an unexplored system my ship discovers after me you can stop the Romulans from invading it too?”

Archer extended his hand out towards the younger captain to shake his hand. “Deal captain.” He said and let go after they shook each other’s hand. “See you out there.” Archer said before going, motioning his head upwards to indicate him towards the stars they both would explore.

A pair of strong arms soon wrapped themselves around Stanton’s waist and he smiled at who they belonged as he turned himself around to face the assailant.

“Lieutenant Commander Rodham.” He greeted his other half.

 “Commander Stanton.” Rodham said with a boyish smirk as he kept his hands on Michael’s hips. “And there was me thinking we wouldn’t see each other at least for another month.”

“I hear Discovery is closer to launch. Hopefully by the end of the month?” Stanton said, sharing a similar smile.

 “And I hear Challenger won’t be departing until tomorrow evening.” Rodham countered back. “Which means I’ve got another twenty four hours where you are all mine.”

Stanton sighed at those words. “Probably less, I’ve got to oversee some of the repairs and upgrades we’re getting.”

“Damn.” Rodham cursed as he let go of his boyfriend’s hips and took hold of his right hand in his hand and led him away from the large crowd. 

“Hey, you had the chance to apply for Challenger’s chief helm position.” Stanton reminded him as they went into a corner away from everyone else. 

Rodham gave him a sort of disgusted look. “And have you above me in seniority telling me what to do all the time?”

“You didn’t complain last time!” Stanton threw back last time with a devilish wink.

“True.” Rodham said after a slight chuckle. “Anyway you should be worried as I may get distracted by our new chief engineer on Discovery.”

“Oh, who do you have?” Stanton enquired, curiously. 

Rodham jerked his head towards where Captain Burton stood with Commander Levesque and another man, someone younger than him in a Starfleet red operations dress uniform and looked very similar to him. “Lieutenant Commander Roman Burton, your captain’s brother.”

“Damn, he is cute!” Stanton stated as he eyed the man up and down. “You’re not going to get any work done!” He said looking back at his boyfriend.

“I could say the same about you and Captain Burton. Should I be worried about these morning runs?” 

Stanton laughed further at their flying banter. “Nah, I can promise you that Captain Burton certainly doesn’t bat for our team, though that said I’m pretty sure him and Commander Levesque would be happy to bat together, if you get my drift?!” 

Rodham snickered at this. “Well with that said I heard a rumour that Roman, the engineering hunk, is already taken and is rumoured to be seeing our new Armoury officer.”

Stanton then placed his arms around Rodham’s neck. “Well then I suppose I’m the lucky one that you won’t be distracted too much.” He said before leaning in to kiss him.

“Wow, the Discovery? I’m so pleased for you Roman!” Levesque said as she leaned in to hug Roman Burton.

“Thanks Commander.” Roman said, hugging her back. It was weird that Nicole was hugging him, beforehand they rarely interacted on Columbia but since becoming Lloyd’s First Officer she had let her force field down and seemed more relaxed. Roman had also noticed how much she was hanging off her brother’s arm. I wonder? He thought as a wry smile swept across his face as he looked at the two of them. “Anyway I do have you to thank for this!” He said, directing it at his brother.

“How come?” Lloyd asked as he sipped on his second glass of champagne.

“If you hadn’t taken Commander Stanton from Discovery I’d still be on Columbia.” He explained. 

Lloyd and Nicole both laughed at that. “Well you’re welcome.” The older Burton sibling said, “What about Nathan? How are things with him?”

Roman nodded and looked around the room. “There he is.” Pointing to a man standing near to others from Columbia. He ushered him over, to the point he took his hand and dragged him across. “Nathan, meet my big brother Lloyd.” He said with a big grin on his face. 

Lieutenant Nathan Wallis was the same height as Roman and had blonde coloured hair. He extended his hand out. “A pleasure to meet you sir.” He said to Lloyd in a nervous tone.

Lloyd took his hand. “Please, call me Lloyd. You’re my brother’s other half. No ranks in the Burton clan.”

“Sorry, have you met our mother?” Roman asked sarcastically towards his brother.

Lloyd ignored him and laughed. “It’s good to meet you at last Nathan.”

“Thank you.” He said and then looked at the woman to his right. “Commander Levesque, it’s good to see you as well.”

Nicole smiled back. “You too Nathan. So are you going to miss this one?” She said using her thumb to point towards Roman.

“Oh no.” Nathan said. “I’ve been asked to join the Discovery too as its Chief Armoury Officer.”

“Wow, congratulations to you both then.” Nicole raised her glass to toast them both.

“So did you ever think you would have ever been invited to such a glitzy event?” Major Yu asked as she passed another flute of champagne to each of her current companions; Ro-fa Kefira, Ensign Conrad and Sub Commander T’Plau from the tray the waiter was holding by her.

Conrad shrugged his shoulders as he took the drink. “If this is the type of thing we do regularly then I am more than…” His train of thought escaped him as two young looking women in low cut tight dresses walked past them. He gawked at them for a second before returning to the group. “What was I saying? Ah yeah, if we do this regularly then I’m glad I said yes to the captain about returning to Starfleet!”

Lieutenant Ben-Ami rolled her eyes at his behaviour. “I wouldn’t count on it. Not every first contact that Enterprise and Columbia have dealt with has ended with a glamorous party like this.”

“Indeed, when my ancestors began exploring space they also engaged with many hostile races. To this day they still do.” T’Plau added. “But to return to the original question, no I did not ever consider being invited to join the captain at such an historical event and I would question it being glitzy major.”

 Yu chuckled at that. “We can debate it another time, Sub Commander.” She said as he took a sip of her champagne and looked back out at the pool of officials celebrating around them.

Thursday, March 6th, 2155

Challenger NX-03, Obama Repair Facility, Earth orbit

“Well here we are again.” Burton commented as he stepped out onto his bridge from his office. Once again they were preparing to disembark from Earth, but this time hopefully for the right reasons. This time there were different faces here too. Ensign John Conrad sat at the helm, all ready with his new shiny pip on his collar while Sub Commander T’Plau sat up straight at the armoury station. Burton sat himself down in his chair in the middle of the bridge. All eyes were on him now. He tugged on his uniform and sat up straight.

“The past few weeks haven’t seen us actually engage in what we originally set out to do, explore space, and I can’t promise that with the coming weeks that won’t be interrupted by whatever threats await us out there but for now…” He paused and looked down at his new chief helm officer. “Ensign Conrad, take us out and let’s start exploring what this universe has to offer us, for the benefit of all!”