Lt. Commander Ross - The Good Old Cheers (Part III)
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Hannah S
Apr 18, 2026, 4:28:15 PM (16 hours ago) Apr 18
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((Beachfront – Raskor II))
This was probably his favourite part of the night - especially when Ross could rest assured that he would be left out of it. He settled back with an expectant smile.
Taybrim: Now, before we break, I of course have some important announcements. First… ::oh who was the first person he would settle his gaze upon?:: Ensign sh’Sonora, if you could please join me?
sh’Sonora: ::Points to herself:: Me? ::She gets the hint quickly, rising up from her seat to approach the podium.
Her behaviour immediately made Ross smile: They hadn't interacted much, but he had heard some very entertaining stories about their Andorian Ensign.
Taybrim just smiled as she made her way up to the front of the audience.
Taybrim: You have had quite the ride so to speak in your time with StarBase 118. From piloting the Theirr, to rescuing civilian vessels to test flying some of the ships in the impound bay, you have proven yourself a capable pilot, a clever thinker and a teammate that your fellow crew can rely on. These are all strong skills that will carry you forward in your career. Beyond this, you have an unstoppable energy that brightens up a room, something I hope you can carry with you for years to come.
sh’Sonora: Ummm… yes Sir, thank you Sir.
She gave the commodore a crisp salute, and then looked slightly betrayed that her hand had done such a thing.
Taybrim: In recognition of the progress you have made and the contributions you have given to this crew, I am very pleased to promote you to the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade with all rights and responsibilities that come with this rank.
Taybrim pulled out a beautiful rosewood box and offered it to her.
sh’Sonora: Oh… umm… wow… that’s… wow! I mean… WOW! Thank you, Sir!
Ross joined in on the clapping and cheers - from everything he'd heard the promotion was very well deserved.
Any: ?
Taybrim: Congratulations, Lieutenant! Now, my firm and very strong order to you is that you fly safely and do not cause myself nor Captain Fairhug to have to bestow a Purple Heart upon you in the future, understood?
sh’Sonora: ::quips:: Don’t worry, Sir. I wouldn’t want to tie up any medical resources unless I have to.
Any: ?
Taybrim: Ensign Lyra Voss, if you could please join me?
This was probably his favourite part of the night - especially when Ross could rest assured that he would be left out of it. He settled back with an expectant smile.
Taybrim: Now, before we break, I of course have some important announcements. First… ::oh who was the first person he would settle his gaze upon?:: Ensign sh’Sonora, if you could please join me?
sh’Sonora: ::Points to herself:: Me? ::She gets the hint quickly, rising up from her seat to approach the podium.
Her behaviour immediately made Ross smile: They hadn't interacted much, but he had heard some very entertaining stories about their Andorian Ensign.
Taybrim just smiled as she made her way up to the front of the audience.
Taybrim: You have had quite the ride so to speak in your time with StarBase 118. From piloting the Theirr, to rescuing civilian vessels to test flying some of the ships in the impound bay, you have proven yourself a capable pilot, a clever thinker and a teammate that your fellow crew can rely on. These are all strong skills that will carry you forward in your career. Beyond this, you have an unstoppable energy that brightens up a room, something I hope you can carry with you for years to come.
sh’Sonora: Ummm… yes Sir, thank you Sir.
She gave the commodore a crisp salute, and then looked slightly betrayed that her hand had done such a thing.
Taybrim: In recognition of the progress you have made and the contributions you have given to this crew, I am very pleased to promote you to the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade with all rights and responsibilities that come with this rank.
Taybrim pulled out a beautiful rosewood box and offered it to her.
sh’Sonora: Oh… umm… wow… that’s… wow! I mean… WOW! Thank you, Sir!
Ross joined in on the clapping and cheers - from everything he'd heard the promotion was very well deserved.
Any: ?
Taybrim: Congratulations, Lieutenant! Now, my firm and very strong order to you is that you fly safely and do not cause myself nor Captain Fairhug to have to bestow a Purple Heart upon you in the future, understood?
sh’Sonora: ::quips:: Don’t worry, Sir. I wouldn’t want to tie up any medical resources unless I have to.
Any: ?
Taybrim: Ensign Lyra Voss, if you could please join me?
Ah, there it was. Ross couldn't help but grin as he crossed his arms in front of his chest and watched how every color left Lyra's face - he had seen this coming. The way she awkwardly made her way to the front of the crowd immediately sent him back to his own first promotion. He didn't need to be an empath to feel her tension.
The only difference though? He knew she would be fine.
Voss: Sir?
Taybrim: Ensign, you have also been quite busy since you arrived. From reaching out telepathically to a new life form, helping contain an alien artifact, being the leader of the now legendary Ensign Bingo, you have come a long way in a very short time. You have proven yourself a resourceful and flexible thinker, able to figure out solutions based on what resources you have and able to work well with a variety of different civilians and crew.
Voss: ::smirking at these truly nonsensical circumstances:: Ensign Bingo, sir? Never heard of it.
That made Ross smile even more - it was good to know the tradition was alive and well.
Taybrim: In recognition of not only your accomplishments, but your continued ability to think creatively and make good decisions under pressure, your outspoken ability to help guide your teams towards success and your dedication towards our missions, I am extremely happy to promote you to the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade with all the rights and responsibilities thereof.
He reached into the podium and opened a rosewood box to her, revealing the hollow pip inside. Lyra hung her head for a brief moment as she seemed to collect herself.
Voss: Thank you so much, sir. I’ll do everything I can to live up to this.
The only difference though? He knew she would be fine.
Voss: Sir?
Taybrim: Ensign, you have also been quite busy since you arrived. From reaching out telepathically to a new life form, helping contain an alien artifact, being the leader of the now legendary Ensign Bingo, you have come a long way in a very short time. You have proven yourself a resourceful and flexible thinker, able to figure out solutions based on what resources you have and able to work well with a variety of different civilians and crew.
Voss: ::smirking at these truly nonsensical circumstances:: Ensign Bingo, sir? Never heard of it.
That made Ross smile even more - it was good to know the tradition was alive and well.
Taybrim: In recognition of not only your accomplishments, but your continued ability to think creatively and make good decisions under pressure, your outspoken ability to help guide your teams towards success and your dedication towards our missions, I am extremely happy to promote you to the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade with all the rights and responsibilities thereof.
He reached into the podium and opened a rosewood box to her, revealing the hollow pip inside. Lyra hung her head for a brief moment as she seemed to collect herself.
Voss: Thank you so much, sir. I’ll do everything I can to live up to this.
Ross clapped loudly.
Ross: Well deserved!
Any: ?
She turned on her heel to escape the stage, but only got a step away before Taybrim called her and she had to turn back.
Any: ?
She turned on her heel to escape the stage, but only got a step away before Taybrim called her and she had to turn back.
When they locked eyes, Ross couldn't help but wonder whether they were having a second telepathic conversation with each other, lying under the actual words they exchanged.
Taybrim: Congratulations, Lieutenant! But I’m sorry – you can’t sit down quite yet because I’m not done. Through out each mission and shore leave I have watched your leadership ability grow. You have the ability to focus your fellow crew mates back on track, so much that Commander Drex specifically complimented you on your focus while you were in the civilian sector and he was struggling. I believe you will continue to naturally build upon these skills and grow as a leader. And to that end I am pleased to offer you the position of Assistant Chief Science Officer.
Voss: That’s… I… I’m honored. I’m… thank you.
Ross' smile got even brighter. He was genuinely happy for his friend - only a few months in an Lyra was already on her way of taking over the Science department. He cheered and clapped as she made her way back to the crowd.
Any: ?
Taybrim: Congratulations, Lieutenant! I am very proud of all you have accomplished and I look forward to seeing where you go forward from here!
Lyra nodded her thanks, and then practically ran back to throw herself into her seat, dabbing at her eyes with the edges of her shawl.
Taybrim: Congratulations, Lieutenant! But I’m sorry – you can’t sit down quite yet because I’m not done. Through out each mission and shore leave I have watched your leadership ability grow. You have the ability to focus your fellow crew mates back on track, so much that Commander Drex specifically complimented you on your focus while you were in the civilian sector and he was struggling. I believe you will continue to naturally build upon these skills and grow as a leader. And to that end I am pleased to offer you the position of Assistant Chief Science Officer.
Voss: That’s… I… I’m honored. I’m… thank you.
Ross' smile got even brighter. He was genuinely happy for his friend - only a few months in an Lyra was already on her way of taking over the Science department. He cheered and clapped as she made her way back to the crowd.
Any: ?
Taybrim: Congratulations, Lieutenant! I am very proud of all you have accomplished and I look forward to seeing where you go forward from here!
Lyra nodded her thanks, and then practically ran back to throw herself into her seat, dabbing at her eyes with the edges of her shawl.
Another chance for Ross to lean in with a grin.
Ross: ::with lowered voice:: Sounds like that red uniform is not only coming for me, huh?
But their attention was quickly drawn back to the stage - this time, Ross hadn't seen it coming, but thinking about it, it only made sense.
Taybrim: Lieutenant Sylvax, if you could please join me?
Sylvax: Of course, sir.
Taybrim: Lieutenant, if I had to describe your Starfleet career as I
have observed it so far in one word, it would be: change. You came
onboard at a time of change. The first missions you served upon were
during a time of change after Frontier Day, and some of them were
quite chaotic. And then you, yourself have changed. This would break
some people, or at the very least hold them back. But you are an
exception, and the officer I see before me is stronger now than ever.
You are an officer who your crewmates rely upon. Who your command
staff trust. And I would like to recognize how much you have given to
this crew.
Sylvax: I don't think I've always felt stronger.
His voice was quieter than before.
Sylvax: But this crew has given me every reason to keep becoming someone better.
Taybrim: I am very confident that you will continue to shape and lead
this crew forwards. And to recognize all your hard work and all your
progress and reliability through change, I am placing my trust – and
the trust of Starfleet in you. I hereby promote you to the rank of
full Lieutenant, with all rights and responsibilities therein.
Taybrim reached forward and replaced the pip at his collar.
Taybrim: Lieutenant Sylvax, if you could please join me?
Sylvax: Of course, sir.
Taybrim: Lieutenant, if I had to describe your Starfleet career as I
have observed it so far in one word, it would be: change. You came
onboard at a time of change. The first missions you served upon were
during a time of change after Frontier Day, and some of them were
quite chaotic. And then you, yourself have changed. This would break
some people, or at the very least hold them back. But you are an
exception, and the officer I see before me is stronger now than ever.
You are an officer who your crewmates rely upon. Who your command
staff trust. And I would like to recognize how much you have given to
this crew.
Sylvax: I don't think I've always felt stronger.
His voice was quieter than before.
Sylvax: But this crew has given me every reason to keep becoming someone better.
Taybrim: I am very confident that you will continue to shape and lead
this crew forwards. And to recognize all your hard work and all your
progress and reliability through change, I am placing my trust – and
the trust of Starfleet in you. I hereby promote you to the rank of
full Lieutenant, with all rights and responsibilities therein.
Taybrim reached forward and replaced the pip at his collar.
There was something genuinely touching about their exchange. Not only Taybrim seemed incredibly honest in the way he honoured Ryden's work - Ryden himself also looked deeply moved. Everyone on this beach knew how hard he had worked for this; and with countless other lives inside him, this still had to be a big moment for the doctor.
Sylvax: Thank you, Commodore.
Ross joined the clapping and cheering and smiled.
Taybrim: And I would be remiss to not point out that with Dr. Wethern
having to take a sabbatical, we also need a Chief Medical Officer.
Fortunately, Dr. Wethern suggested you had the - how did he put it –
‘medical chops’ for the role. I am not a doctor, but I do believe you
also have the leadership skills. So I approve of Dr. Wethern’s
suggestion, and I offer you the role of Chief Medical Officer.
Sylvax: Thank you, Commodore.
Ross joined the clapping and cheering and smiled.
Taybrim: And I would be remiss to not point out that with Dr. Wethern
having to take a sabbatical, we also need a Chief Medical Officer.
Fortunately, Dr. Wethern suggested you had the - how did he put it –
‘medical chops’ for the role. I am not a doctor, but I do believe you
also have the leadership skills. So I approve of Dr. Wethern’s
suggestion, and I offer you the role of Chief Medical Officer.
Ryden chuckled.
Sylvax: He really said "medical chops," didn't he?
Sylvax: He really said "medical chops," didn't he?
Although Ross let out a laugh, a short painful sting went through his chest - he had only been gone for a few weeks, but he already missed Corey and his stupid jokes. The station had become a lot more quiet since his departure.
Sylvax: I... would be honored to hold the position until Corey returns.
Taybrim: I mean when Dr. Wethern returns you’ll simply have to discuss
that with him. But let me offer you hearty congratulation Lieutenant,
I am proud of you and all you have accomplished!
Sylvax: Thank you, sir. I'll do everything I can to be worthy of that trust.
Sylvax: I... would be honored to hold the position until Corey returns.
Taybrim: I mean when Dr. Wethern returns you’ll simply have to discuss
that with him. But let me offer you hearty congratulation Lieutenant,
I am proud of you and all you have accomplished!
Sylvax: Thank you, sir. I'll do everything I can to be worthy of that trust.
Ross cheered and clapped. There was no doubt Ryden would excel in his new position - and something told him Corey wouldn't be mad about a fair split of work once he would be back from his time-out.
Taybrim: And one last important announcement. As it may take some time for Captain Fairhug to return, and we have a new mission to tend to in the immediate future, I am appointing Lt. Commander Shar’Wyn Foster as acting Commanding Officer of StarBase 118 Ops until Captain Fairhug returns.
Ross' gaze snapped towards Wyn. He already knew about the decision - but hearing about it still made it more real. He had no doubt that Foster would lead them on steadily in Fairhug's absence - but he knew the Andorian well enough to catch the hint of tension in his voice.
Foster: I will keep them all safe, Sir.
Ross clapped loudly as if to stress his words.
Any: ?
Taybrim: And yes, I am aware that this leave Ops without a First Officer… however I am asking Lt. Commander Solaris McLaren to serve as Commander Foster’s First Officer.
McLaren: We'll keep an eye on the station for now.
Wyn raised his to match her.
Foster: That we will!
Ross' gaze snapped towards Wyn. He already knew about the decision - but hearing about it still made it more real. He had no doubt that Foster would lead them on steadily in Fairhug's absence - but he knew the Andorian well enough to catch the hint of tension in his voice.
Foster: I will keep them all safe, Sir.
Ross clapped loudly as if to stress his words.
Any: ?
Taybrim: And yes, I am aware that this leave Ops without a First Officer… however I am asking Lt. Commander Solaris McLaren to serve as Commander Foster’s First Officer.
McLaren: We'll keep an eye on the station for now.
Wyn raised his to match her.
Foster: That we will!
Ross: Way to go!
Any: ?
Any: ?
He was incredibly proud of Sol - she was the best boss one could ask for and the only objection he had to her becoming FO was the fact that she couldn't stay Director of Intel if this turned out to be a long-term thing. The idea of getting a new boss was almost surreal.
But then again, could there be a better leading team than Sol and Wyn? Probably not. If anyone would keep them safe, it would be those two - and Taybrim seemed to think the same.
Taybrim: I can firmly say that I believe StarBase 118 is in good hands and you both will do a fantastic job. And I can firmly say that this is a magnificent crew who can achieve great things in good times and hard times. So let me end by saying congratulations to everyone! And thank you all for all of your hard work!
Ross smiled and raised his glass. What Taybrim hadn't said out loud was that someone had to fill in for Sol's position as second officer - and a few days ago, he had gotten the message that it would be him. Lyra's comment about that red uniform hadn't been far from the truth - but for now it stayed black and the new rank seemed to be more of an unofficial position. He didn't mind at all - if someone had told him this a year ago, he probably would have fainted from the sheer idea of the responsibility that came with it.
Taybrim had been right: It was a time of change. Maybe that truly was the only constant in this Starfleet life.
The audience broke into raucous applause - and Ross was part of it.
McLaren: To 118!
Foster: To an amazing crew!
Ross: To all of you!
Any: ?
Taybrim had been right: It was a time of change. Maybe that truly was the only constant in this Starfleet life.
The audience broke into raucous applause - and Ross was part of it.
McLaren: To 118!
Foster: To an amazing crew!
Ross: To all of you!
Any: ?
***
Lt. Commander Evan Ross
Intelligence Officer
StarBase 118 Ops
O240009ER2
Lt. Commander Evan Ross
Intelligence Officer
StarBase 118 Ops
O240009ER2
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