(( Conference Room 04-118, Deck 4, Deep Space 14 ))
T’Valek: Well, Commander, can you tell us what your goals are for the future?
It was the final question before the ultimate privilege was bestowed upon Lia; while it was somewhat of a formality given she was already captaining the flagship of the flotilla; this would solidify the recognition of her experience and authority within Starfleet. She took a moment to reflect mindfully, which seemed to test the patience of one of their peers.
Fletcher: Well?
Rouiancet: I've found command to be a rewarding and challenging experience thus far. Despite my unorthodox path to becoming the Butler's CO, I believe that I've done well in the post, and have assembled a strong and supportive staff. I would like to continue that work. I've found great personal purpose in the exploratory work of this task force, and I want to continue to seek out greater and greater questions. (a slight smile) I serve at the behest of curiosity.
Fletcher: Well that sounds like a goal well aligned with the Flotilla.
T’Valek: Laudable intentions for sure.
Rhyl offered a smile and affirmative nod; while he wasn’t sure what she was going to say, it hit the right chords of being both a great captain while also staying humble.
Kruwii: No more tests, then?
Fletcher: I think we’ve heard enough. She’s onto us, we might as well get started.
Rhyl: I concur.
Fletcher: Commander Lia Rouiancet. You are hereby called to the position of Captain of the Starship Octavia E. Butler. As such, you are charged with exploration of the unknown and keeping to the standards and philosophies of the Federation. Do you swear to honour and abide by them?
Rouiancet: (solemn) I will, and I do.
Kruwii: The weight of a captaincy is more than the command of a vessel. You are to embody moral leadership, diplomacy, and mentorship while inspiring your crew and representing our ideals.
T'Valek: Indeed. The role of captain is one of great responsibility and influence. It requires not only tactical acumen and scientific curiosity, but also the wisdom to navigate complex ethical dilemmas. A captain must be prepared to make difficult decisions that may impact countless lives, all while upholding the core values of the Federation. It is a position that demands unwavering dedication to duty, compassion for all forms of life, and the ability to inspire those under one's command to reach their full potential.
Fletcher: As a captain, your duty is not only to the Federation, but also to your crew. Do you swear to lead by example, and take care of all who are under your jurisdiction, to encourage and exhort to the high standards as befitting a Starfleet officer, and to ensure discipline and respect are given to all
T'Valek: The responsibility of leadership extends far beyond mere command - it encompasses the nurturing and development of each individual under your care. Can you accept such a charge?
Rouiancet: Response
Fletcher: And finally, do you swear to honour and respect all people with whom you come into contact with, to abide by the Prime Directive, and ensure peaceful relations throughout the galaxy.
Kruwii: Or as best as you can!
Rhyl wondered if ‘ensuring peaceful relations’ was an empty promise with how untamed the Gamma Quadrant seemed to be. Kruwii had a point with their addition.
Rouiancet: Response
Bridget stepped forward and carefully opened the wooden box to remove the singular pip, attaching it to Rouiancet’s collar.
Fletcher: I hereby declare that Commander Lia Rouiancet has been promoted to the rank of captain, and is hereby afforded all the rights and privileges of that position. Captain Lia Rouiancet, please recite your Captain’s Oath for the Octavia E. Butler.
Rouiancet: Response
Fletcher: Attention!
Simultaneously, each of them snapped to attention into a rigid salute and addressed Lia with her new title.
Kruwii: Captain!
T’Valek: Captain.
Rhyl: Captain!
Fletcher ended the salute and the remaining captains followed suit.
Rouiancet: Response
Fletcher: Now it’s time to party!
T’Valek: If we must ::almost smirking::
Rouiancet: Response
Kruwii: I believe the traditional indulgence is fermented fruit drinks!
Rhyl pulled out a satchel that he’d had under the conference table, and the sound of clinking glass rattled in the canvas bag. One by one he revealed several spirits and appropriate accompanying glasses; including Rigellian brandy, Bajoran Ale, Andorian Ale, and something humans called Tequila. He’d tried to bring something that represented everyone’s homeland but thought Vulcan tea might be a mood dampener.
Fletcher/Rouiancet: Responses
Rhyl: We raided the bank and made sure we had the real stuff — becoming captain is no small feat! ::pouring a drink:: Officially, welcome to the club.
Jnaxlo took the opportunity, moving to the front of the crowd and exposing his palm. A gesture Rhyl rarely used himself, but according to his academy studies, signified comping in peace.
Kruwii: Congratulations again. We need more Captains out here.
T’Valek: I agree with Captain Kruwii, and I belief they’ve filled the position admirably.
Fletcher/Rouiancet: Response
Kruwii: All in all, a good meeting of the Command Officers Promotion Association!
Rhyl was feeling particularly jovial, aided by the ale he’d been consuming — it seemed to go straight to his head rather quickly.
Rhyl: Hip, Hip… Hooray.
Others also chiming in on the hooray.
Fletcher/Kruwii: Response
Rhys: Have you got your next orders yet… Captain?
Rouiancet: Response
Rhys: Those number crunchers back at HQ (beat) sometimes I think they’re just making it up as they go along. I’ve been hearing rumours about the Zet starting to procure larger amounts of weapons.
Fletcher/Kruwii/ T’Valek: Response
Rhys: ::shaking his head:: I haven’t been able to substantiate anything yet… they mentioned that Starfleet Intelligence would ‘look into it’. I’ll be heading on a diplomatic run myself with a representative from New Bajor to establish another trade route. ::motioning his glass to Lia:: Kudos to your team for setting up one with the I-Kiyoan.
Fletcher/Kruwii/ T’Valek: Response
Tags/TBC
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Ryhl Th'shriathik
Captain
USS Pilgrim
O240005JH3
he/him/his (player/character)