New Moon Rising

Posted on Sun Jun 21st, 2020 @ 4:16am by Captain Nycolas Temple
Edited on on Wed Jun 24th, 2020 @ 7:36am

Mission: New Moon Rising
Location: Captain's Ready Room

With the coordinates to a Talarian space station given by Sevros, Nyx had ordered the Pandora on a course to deliver the Ambassador and his crew back to their people, then headed into his Ready Room. Though the captain's shift was over, and he was especially keen to get to Sickbay to see his wife and daughter again, he also knew today's events required reflection and recognition. It had been one hell of an introduction to life in the Inconnu Region and he believed his crew had performed exceptionally given the sudden dangers they had found themselves in.

As Captain, he felt that people would look to him for commentary and review after a mission, or a crisis like they had just been through. It was his duty to reassure the crew of their purpose and actions, to give the Pandora a clear response in times that may be confusing or stressful. To that aim, he decided to speak directly to the crew, something he hoped to do after every mission.

Sitting as his desk, Temple tapped his console and the tannoy whistled in response, sending out a ship-wide communication.

"Attention all hands, this is your Captain speaking." He began, his voice light but not too jovial.

"Firstly, I want to thank all of you onboard this vessel for the dedication and capability you displayed during the Talarian and Tzenkethi crisis. While we are a new crew on a new ship, it is heartening to see so many of you have risen to the occasion and performed your duties with courage and determination. We can say without doubt that the events over the past few days have been a test for the new Pandora, a preview of what may be in-store once in the Inconnu Expanse. A test that I am pleased to say we have passed with honours."

"I want to give particular thanks to Lieutenant Griffin and Commander Nash for their quick response to the Tzenkethi attack, they defended the Pandora with decisive skill and fast reflexes. In addition, Lieutenants Brennan and Smith were placed under incredible pressure to find a solution for the crisis and they came through with the intel that was vital to our resolution of the conflict. Also, Ensign Adaestron has been thrust into command of the Medical Department, and has adapted to the role with impressive competence. It is heartening to see the leadership team of the Pandora in such talented hands."

He shifted slightly in his seat, as Nyx paused and his toned flattened.

"Though we are not without casualties. Lieutenant Kolbeck will be transferred back to Carnwennan Station for treatment of injuries he received while assisting with the shuttle crash. Van's skills, personality, and professionalism were a testament to his distinguished career and we can only hope for his speedy and complete recovery. It is with great pride that I have recommended to Starfleet Command that he receive appropriate recognition and reward for his selfless act while in that shuttle, fearlessly putting his life at risk to save others. Of course, it is with tremendous sadness that we are unable to present such an award to him in person."

"We also cannot forget to honour the lives of the Talarian crew, whose bodies we are now carrying to their final resting place. They were family members, dedicated officers, explorers, scientists, and warriors, much like any us. They have unfortunately paid the highest price for their service, and we can take many lessons from their actions and, indeed, their mistakes. If you have not done so already, I want to encourage all crew members of the Pandora to pay their respects to the Talarian memorial we have established outside Cargo Bay One. All messages of condolences will be passed on with Ambassador Sevros once we reach the Talarian outpost."

He leaned forward again and tried to put on a more enthusiastic tone,

"Now, it will take roughly eleven days to pass through the Corridor, hopefully less if we can use Talarian space. During this time, I expect each and every department to review their performance and actions during the recent crisis. Be critical and encouraging of your performances. Take heed of where you can improve and recognise where you exceeded the standard. No officer is ever done learning how to be better at their jobs, myself included, and I will happily be placing my own review on the ship-wide database for everyone to read. Though we have passed our first test, it is vital that we prepare ourselves for the journey ahead - as there will certainly be tougher challenges and higher stakes on this tour, and the only way we will succeed is to be prepared."

"In addition, I want to encourage you all to relax and regroup. This is a continuous journey and opportunities for shore-leave will be few and far between, which is why you have the Recreation Deck at your disposal. Please use it to unwind, regather your thoughts, and most importantly, refocus back onto the job at hand. It is vital to your mental health and crew morale that we keep moving forward."

He stood now and looked out the window to the stars flashing past the Pandora's windows.

"Finally, I want to comment on something the Tzenkethi said to us. One of their Captains said that because we were unknown in this area, we had no right to interfere. But I disagree. Since Starfleet pulled resources from the Corridor and the Expanse, a darkness has fallen over the region like a never-ending night. It has driven the Talarians to make rash decisions; and likely others within the Expanse will be feeling the same daunting shadow across their lives. But as the Pandora sails through our journey, discovering and helping where possible, we will act as a shining light straight through the darkness. A beacon of hope, wherever possible."

"Crew, we are like a new moon rising over the evening sky and I want you all to remember this and take great pride in our purpose."

Nyx signed off with a smile, "Thank you all, and have a good night."

With that, Temple shut down his console and strolled enthusiastically out of his Ready Room, heading down to meet Emilie and Katrine.

OFF