04-01-2026, 09:43 PM
Beno knew the Captain had official business to attend to—she just wasn’t sure how long it would take. That was one of the burdens of command; they really did put the boredom in board meetings. “I’m not sure how much longer he’ll be. As for the makeup, ask Carley—she did mine.” Taking a step closer to the center of the room, she added, “The dance was for me.”
The lights dimmed slightly, and the sound of an eagle echoed through the room. “This one is for them.” She continued walking toward the middle. “May I have your attention, please?” She paused, letting the room settle.
“The success of a mission doesn’t rest on the actions of a single person—or even a select few.”
Ten points of light appeared above her. “It takes many moving parts, all coming together as one… to create something truly beautiful.” As she spoke, the lights formed the constellation Aquila. The stars connected with straight lines, glowing brighter before transforming into the shape of a great eagle.
“This also warrants recognition of the efforts that kept everything on track. Doctor O’Shea and Mrs. Talion—you saved the life of our diplomat, Jonas. From what I understand, it was an impossible situation. The artwork of grateful children now lines our walls.” She clapped, hoping others would join in.
“We also have Khasim, who reminded me of an important lesson—fortune favors the bold. With the help of Thorn, they perfected a process that baffled many. Sometimes, the risk is worth taking when the cause is just—and you believe it can succeed.” She applauded again.
“Our Security and Tactical teams worked tirelessly, keeping both ship and crew safe from those who sought to exploit our technology. With Kurasa Mala and Taylor by my side on the away team, I have never felt safer. They showed a level of bravery that helped preserve the peace. And Bishop—your investigation led us to the very root of the assassination attempt.” Another round of applause.
“Our Tactical and Science teams worked together to uncover the truth. Without you, all we would have had was speculation and accusation. Coppola, Young, and K’Vada—your combined efforts took us in directions no single mind could have reached alone.” One final applause followed.
The eagle soared upward into the night sky, dissolving back into the constellation, each star burning brightly.
“As First Officer—and on behalf of our Captain—it brings us great pride to serve alongside so many brave and brilliant individuals. We value each and every one of you. To celebrate, we’ve arranged a selection of special dishes from your home worlds—all carefully prepared, not replicated, for your enjoyment.” The lights returned to normal. There was one more matter to attend to—but that could wait until Daniel arrived.
Returning to Alex, she smiled. “I always enjoy that part—giving credit where it’s due. Hopefully he gets here soon… preferably while dinner is still being served." It must be just one of those burdens of Command, a lesson she would one day learn.
==Tag==
The lights dimmed slightly, and the sound of an eagle echoed through the room. “This one is for them.” She continued walking toward the middle. “May I have your attention, please?” She paused, letting the room settle.
“The success of a mission doesn’t rest on the actions of a single person—or even a select few.”
Ten points of light appeared above her. “It takes many moving parts, all coming together as one… to create something truly beautiful.” As she spoke, the lights formed the constellation Aquila. The stars connected with straight lines, glowing brighter before transforming into the shape of a great eagle.
“This also warrants recognition of the efforts that kept everything on track. Doctor O’Shea and Mrs. Talion—you saved the life of our diplomat, Jonas. From what I understand, it was an impossible situation. The artwork of grateful children now lines our walls.” She clapped, hoping others would join in.
“We also have Khasim, who reminded me of an important lesson—fortune favors the bold. With the help of Thorn, they perfected a process that baffled many. Sometimes, the risk is worth taking when the cause is just—and you believe it can succeed.” She applauded again.
“Our Security and Tactical teams worked tirelessly, keeping both ship and crew safe from those who sought to exploit our technology. With Kurasa Mala and Taylor by my side on the away team, I have never felt safer. They showed a level of bravery that helped preserve the peace. And Bishop—your investigation led us to the very root of the assassination attempt.” Another round of applause.
“Our Tactical and Science teams worked together to uncover the truth. Without you, all we would have had was speculation and accusation. Coppola, Young, and K’Vada—your combined efforts took us in directions no single mind could have reached alone.” One final applause followed.
The eagle soared upward into the night sky, dissolving back into the constellation, each star burning brightly.
“As First Officer—and on behalf of our Captain—it brings us great pride to serve alongside so many brave and brilliant individuals. We value each and every one of you. To celebrate, we’ve arranged a selection of special dishes from your home worlds—all carefully prepared, not replicated, for your enjoyment.” The lights returned to normal. There was one more matter to attend to—but that could wait until Daniel arrived.
Returning to Alex, she smiled. “I always enjoy that part—giving credit where it’s due. Hopefully he gets here soon… preferably while dinner is still being served." It must be just one of those burdens of Command, a lesson she would one day learn.
==Tag==