JP: Cmdr Promontory & LtCmdr Herrick: A Time for Awards: Coda
Mark P
((Grand Li Nalas Observation Dome, Celestial Cruises’ Prophet’s Gaze))
The caterers had begun setting up the food stations in the background, the smell of freshly baked mapa break wafting through the air. Servers were bustling through the tables refilling the tall glass flutes with spring wine. The vessel had stopped its transit through the wormhole. It would hold position for a time and then return to DS9, the main attraction for the cruise line being the inside of the wormhole itself.
Josh’s stomach rumbled, reminding him he’d skipped several meals during his preparation. There were two lone boxes left, but the awardee wasn’t present to receive them.
Herrick: Ready to dig in?
Promontory: Not just yet, we have a little more business to attend to.
He led the way back to the raised stand. The spotlight and the sound amplifier reengaged.
Promontory: If I could have everyone’s attention one last time!
Avander turned off the mic and leaned over to Josh.
Promontory: All the rest of these are for Lieutenant Stendhal, right?
The second officer nodded, and Avander flicked the amplification on again.
Promontory: Although she’s taken a transfer, we want to acknowledge the contributions of Lieutenant Standal. We’re awarding her the Intelligence Star and Leadership Excellence Ribbons.
It seemed Avander wasn’t quite finished, and Josh wondered what other rabbits the man would pull out of his hat.
Promontory: Also, in conjunction with DTI…
It was a mild stretch “with only mild opposition” would have been more honest. Avander looked at their new DTI officer, who didn’t seem overly concerned.
Promontory: … we have been permitted to award each member of the crew who participated in this last mission with the Defense of Temporal Flow Ribbon. Those officers whose service has taken them elsewhere for the time being, like Counselor Stendhal, will also receive this ribbon for service during the mission.
He gave a nod to the technician at the back of the room and every table lit up with transporter light. When it dissipated, in front of most of the officers was a blue and marooned striped ribbon. A final touch of magic for the evening.
Promontory: Now let’s make it a good new year. (he grabbed a glass of liquid from the nearest table and raised it) To a good 2402 and to this crew!
Herrick: Hear, Hear! Happy New Year ::raising his glass::
Josh lowered his voice so the amplification wouldn’t pick it up.
Herrick: You made a hell of a CO, Commander.
Avander regarded the newly minted 2O and the crew generally. He led Josh to their own table so they could finally sit.
Promontory: Well, I don’t know about that. (beat) It was… a lot. But we got through it, thanks to you and the crew. (beat) And no lasting harm… well, no more than usual, I suppose…
The crew seemed to be having a good time. After the chaos and stress of the last few months, it was a welcome sight. It was coming up on a year since the Butler had been released from the shipyards and assigned as the flagship of the expeditionary task force. During the vessel’s 11 months, they’d seen more action than some had in a lifetime of service.
Promontory: In your new role, trust these folk. (looking over the assembled) It’s a good crew.
Herrick: Aye, that they are.
Out of the corner of his eye, he saw a yellow-cladded officer wheeling what appeared to be an old-fashioned liquor barrel with a giant question mark painted above the spigot.
Herrick: There goes Tobats, as usual…
Promontory: He’s early, it’s not time for the after party, is it?
Herrick: ::grinning:: As the informal morale officer, I think he’s… enhancing their well-earned selection of party beverages.
Promontory: Well (raising a glass) to the party then.
[END]
---
Cmdr. Avander Promontory
Executive Officer
USS Octavia E Butler
O239910AP4
&&
Chief Engineer
USS Octavia E. Butler
O240005JH3
he/him/his (player/character)