Arimathea‘s bridge buzzed with activity as Captain Giarvar Kauhn re-entered after seeing off Fleet Captain Romaes Anjin in transporter room two, the senior staff at their respective stations, engrossed in their duties. The subtle hum of machinery and the soft glow of control panels filled the air, creating an atmosphere of focused readiness.

Commander Nisea, the acting first officer, manned the forward helm with precision and confidence. To her side, Lieutenant Linn Mora, the Bolian chief of operations, managed the ship’s systems with practised ease. To port, Lieutenant Commander Akaria Okan, the Chief Science Officer, was immersed in the sensor data displayed on her console while Lieutenant Deakon Iersa, positioned at tactical operations to starboard, monitored the ship’s defensive systems and stood ready for any potential threats once they left the station.

At the auxiliary stations behind the Captain’s chair, Lieutenant Commander Onsas D’orr and Toran Zhek, the Cardassian mission specialist, engaged in a discussion. Their heads bent close as they reviewed the preliminary data on the uncharted nebula that lay ahead. All in all, the heart of the bridge was a symphony of activity, with each officer contributing their expertise to ensure the ship’s smooth operation.

Soon the Russian chief engineer, Lieutenant Natalia Usmanov, emerged from the port-side turbolift, her uniform slightly dishevelled, and made her way to the Captain, her expression one of relief.

“Captain, I’ve completed the final checks on the warp engines,” Usmanov reported in her thick accent. “All systems are green, and we’re ready for departure.

Captain Kauhn’s blue eyes met Usmanov’s, gratitude evident in his gaze. “Thank you, Lieutenant. Your dedication to our ship’s readiness is as commendable as ever.”

Usmanov’s lips quirked in a smile. “It’s my pleasure, Captain. The Arimathea is more than just a ship to me; it’s a testament to the spirit of exploration.”

Kauhn’s smile matched hers, the bond between the crew and their vessel was testament to their shared mission, even if her words reeked of the cheesiest gorgonzola in the ship’s stores. “Indeed, Lieutenant. We’re on the brink of a new journey that holds promise and mystery. Let’s make it a memorable one,” he nodded in agreement, letting her know he shared her sentiment.

With a nod, Usmanov returned to her station, the sense of purpose evident in every step she took. Giarvar took a deep breath, his gaze sweeping over the dedicated officers who filled the bridge as he rose from his command chair. It was time to address his crew, to inspire them for the journey ahead. He wasn’t one for long speeches, but he felt the need to do so for his first official mission as the ship’s commander. It was probably expected of him, too.

Kauhn stepped onto the emblem of the United Federation of Planets at the center of the room, its colours a visual reminder of their shared values and goals. With a commanding presence, he raised his hand and tapped the comm badge on his chest, drawing the attention of his officers.

“All hands, this is the Captain,” Kauhn’s voice resonated throughout the science vessel, a harmonious blend of authority and warmth. “As we stand on the cusp of a new exploration, I am reminded of the unbreakable bond that exists among us—the bond of the Federation, the bond of shared purpose, and the bond of the Arimathea herself.”

The Trill’s words held a sense of reverence, a reminder of the ideals that drove their commitment to exploration and cooperation. His gaze met each officer’s eyes, his appreciation was evident in the depths of his blue stare.

“Today, we embark on a mission that takes us beyond familiar borders, into the uncharted reaches of space. We face the unknown with courage, intellect, and a shared thirst for knowledge. Our mission is a testament to our determination to understand the universe and our place within it. As we journey into the uncharted nebula, let us remember that we carry the hopes of the Federation with us. Our discoveries, our challenges, and our resilience shape the legacy of our ship and our shared commitment to exploration.”

His words carried a weight of purpose and promise, reminding each officer of their role in the tapestry of exploration and discovery their Starfleet mandate decreed.

“We are explorers, scientists, and diplomats. We are representatives of the Federation’s ideals. And as we venture into the unknown, let us be guided by curiosity, respect, and the spirit of unity that defines us.”

A sense of determination filled the air, the bridge crew fully engaged in Kauhn’s message. With a nod of affirmation, Kauhn concluded his speech.

“Commander Nisea, set a course for bearing 319 mark 280. Engage at warp six.”

Nisea’s voice was steady as she responded. “Aye, Captain. Course set and ready to engage.”

The bridge seemed to come alive with purpose as the ship’s systems responded to Nisea’s dancing fingers. The vessel’s deflector dish emitted a soft hum, and the stars streaked into lines of light as the Arimathea‘s sleek form spun on its x-axis. The ship surged forward, its warp nacelles glowing as it propelled itself into the unknown expanse of space. The journey ahead promised challenges and mysteries, but it also held the potential for discovery and camaraderie—the essence of Starfleet’s mission and the driving force behind their commitment to explore new frontiers.

“Very well said Captain,” Commander D’orr whispered once he had leant forward to catch the Captain’s attention as he returned to his seat. The Xelliat’s words elicited a nod of approval from the Cardassian liaison beside him.

Across the bridge, Akaria watched, quietly seething at the exchange between the Captain and the Usurper. When once she had had the Captain’s ear, it now appeared that privilege belonged to Commander D’orr.

And she hated every minute of it.

An hour had passed since the ship had left orbit of Deep Space 17, and Commander Akaria Okan found herself in the ship’s mess hall, sharing lunch with her close friend, Lieutenant Josue Torres, the ship’s counsellor. The room was filled with the gentle hum of conversation and the clinking of utensils, creating a lively and homely feel. Life was gradually getting back to normal after the trauma of Frontier Day, with more and more of the ship’s youths returning to their daily routines beyond their duty assignments.

As they enjoyed their meal, Okan’s gaze occasionally drifted toward the large viewport, offering a view of the star-studded expanse beyond. Her thoughts, however, were firmly anchored in the conversation she was having with Josue.

“Can you believe how quickly things have changed, Josue?” The Risian’s tone was a mix of frustration and resignation. “Just a short time ago, I used to be the one Captain Kauhn turned to for discussions and collaborations.”

Josue studied her with an understanding gaze. “Change is a constant in our lives, Akaria. The arrival of Commander D’orr and this mission has inevitably shifted dynamics.”

Okan sighed, her fingers tracing patterns on the surface of her plate. “I know, but it’s just… it’s hard to watch him interact with the Captain in the same way I used to.”

Josue’s lips quirked in a knowing smile. “Are you suggesting that you’re jealous of the attention D’orr is receiving from Captain Kauhn?”

Okan’s eyes widened in surprise, and she scoffed in response. “Jealous? No, of course not. It’s just that… I’ve been with the Captain for a while now, like you, and now someone new comes aboard, and suddenly they’re forming these professional connections.”

Josue leaned forward slightly, his expression gentle. “Akaria, if I didn’t know any better, I’d think you were experiencing a touch of professional jealousy.”

Okan’s lips pressed into a thin line, her frustration evident. “Josue, I assure you, my partnership with Matheus is solid. We understand the challenges of long-distance relationships.”

Josue raised an eyebrow, his tone teasing. “I wasn’t suggesting that your relationship with Matheus is in jeopardy. But it’s possible for multiple feelings to coexist, you know.”

Okan’s defences softened as she regarded her friend. Josue had a way of seeing through her emotional armour, even when she wasn’t entirely willing to admit her vulnerabilities. “Fine,” she conceded, her voice laced with a touch of exasperation. “Maybe there’s a small part of me that misses having Captain Kauhn’s undivided attention.”

Josue’s smile was warm, his understanding evident. “It’s okay, Akaria. Feelings like these are natural, especially when relationships shift. Acknowledging them is the first step toward understanding yourself better.”

Okan sighed, her shoulders slumping slightly. “I suppose you’re right. It’s just… complicated.”

Josue’s gaze was steady. “Complicated is part of life, my friend. What truly matters is how you navigate those complexities.”

As their conversation neared its end, Josue excused himself with a smile, mentioning a scheduled appointment. Left alone in the mess hall, Okan was left to ponder the truths in their conversation. She couldn’t deny that watching D’orr interact with the Captain had stirred something within her—a mix of emotions that she hadn’t fully explored. As the minutes passed, she found herself lost in thought. Why did she feel the need to be at the center of Captain Kauhn’s attention? Was it merely a matter of professional pride, or did it run deeper? She had always been a dedicated officer, committed to her work and her team. So why was the emergence of a new connection causing a ripple within her?

Okan’s gaze drifted back to the viewport, the stars a backdrop to her contemplation. Perhaps it was time to delve into her feelings, to uncover the underlying motivations behind her reactions. She finished her lunch and rose from her seat at the table. The journey ahead promised challenges and discoveries, both within the uncharted expanse of space and within the depths of her own heart.

How she hated it when Josue was right. Thankfully he wasn’t there to hear her say it. This time anyway.