Chapter 2: Legacies and Hidden Agendas

Stardate 2386.415

The senior staff of the USS Enterprise-F sat in the conference room at Washington Station. They were being briefed on their first mission as a crew. They didn't know what was laid ahead of them, except for two of the Senior Staff crew. Captain Data and Counselor Aidan Kantar were briefed earlier about the mission. Admiral Kathryn Janeway proceeded to begin to brief the rest of the staff.

"There is an unexplored region in the middle of the Sigma Quadrant." She began. "A number of systems in one cluster. The Federation has been researching this region for the past three years. We just didn't have the right starship to explore it, until now."

"Are there any M-Class planets in the cluster?" Geordi La Forge asked.

"Several. But there is one particular planet I would like for you to explore." Kathryn turned on the viewscreen and revealed a royal purple planet that was emitting purple rings. The senior crew looked at the planet in amazement.

"This is the planet, Genosha." Janeway introduced. "An M-Class planet with a population of 10,000 inhabitants, all with unique abilities."

"What kind of unique abilities?" Kylie Ramirez asked.

"We don't know what kind of abilities yet, but we believe that those purple rings are emitting some type of energy that's giving the people these gifts." Aidan explained.

"Starfleet wants to establish first contact with Genosha." Janeway said. "They believe that Genosha has resources that the Federation will benefit from."

"Does Genosha have warp capability?" Cyrus Vale asked.

"Not that we know of," Janeway replied, rather shortly.

"Then why are we doing first contact? First contact missions are only for those planets who achieved warp capability."

"You don't have to lecture me about first contact, Lieutenant." Janeway snapped. "I know perfectly well."

Cyrus scoffed at Admiral Janeway and proceeded to get up and leave the conference room when Wesley Crusher and Brendan Scott stopped him.

"Cyrus, don't go." Brendan said.

"This is bullcrap and you know it!" Cyrus whispered fiercely.

"I agree with ya, mate."

"Why are we doing first contact on a planet that may or may not have warp capability? There's something else going on."

"But this is not the time or place, Cyrus." Wesley said.

"You don't believe me, Commander?"

"I believe you make a valid point. But think about it. Half of these people are already suspicious of you. You disrespect the Admiral, then they will lose all respect for you."

Cyrus sighed heavily, knowing full well that Wesley had a point.

"We're on your side, Cyrus." Wesley assured. "We'll take the matter up with Data."

"Don't worry, Cy. We'll get to the bottom of this." Brendan added.

"Gentlemen, are you finished?" Janeway asked, impatiently.

Cyrus looked at Brendan and Wesley then at the Admiral. He smiled politely.

"Yes, Admiral." He said, sweetly. "I apologize."

Once the men were seated, Admiral Janeway continued. "Now, let me be clear. The Federation doesn't want to have a bunch of Starfleet personnel on the planet surface. Survey the planet first. Gain their trust, then start negotiations. Is that understood?"

"Completely, ma'am." Data nodded.

"Good. The christening ceremony will begin at 09:00 hrs. That's two hours from now. In the meantime, take this time to relax. Dismissed."

The Senior Staff quietly got up and exited the conference room. Cyrus started to leave when Admiral Janeway called his name. Sighing inwardly, Cyrus came over and stood face to face with a steaming Admiral.

"The next time you're thinking about questioning my commands, Lieutenant Vale, I suggest you think twice." She warned.

"I don't mean any disrespect," Cyrus said. "But when someone wants to "make first contact" with a planet that doesn't have warp, it seems like that there's another agenda at play here."

"That's a smart assessment. One can argue that same theory about Amador V."

"Is there a point to this?"

"My point is that you don't deserve to be on a starship, much less the Enterprise. If it were up to me, you'd be in the brig."

"But it's not up to you." Cyrus pointed out. "It's up to Captain Data, and he saw past my transgressions and gave me a second chance. I'm not asking you to believe in my innocence because I know you don't. But I'm asking you to treat me with the same respect you give to my other crewmembers."

Janeway stared at Cyrus dead in his eyes. "If you make one mistake, so much as an infraction, I will not hesitate to remove you from the Enterprise and give your post to an officer who deserves it. And you will be demoted to Ensign, is that clear, Lieutenant Vale?"

"Crystal, Admiral."

"Dismissed."

Cyrus gives Admiral Janeway one last glare before exiting the conference room. He lets out a long breath and sees his ex-girlfriend out the corner of his eye.

"Not now, Aidan." He said.

"Cyrus, wait..." Aidan began.

"I already got chewed up by the Admiral, I don't need anybody else scrutinizing me."

Aidan sighed in resignation as she watched Cyrus walk away. She felt a hand on her shoulder and turned to see Data behind her.

"He will be alright." He assured his best friend.

Aidan smiled sadly. "I guess people didn't really forget about Amador V."

"It will be a difficult journey for him. However, Cyrus made a valid point."

"You think the Federation has a hidden agenda about Genosha?"

"I am not certain. But Cyrus' inquiry is worth looking over."

08:25 hrs.

"You wanted to see me, Commander?"

Lieutenant Commander Kamin looked up from his work to see his young operation specialist standing in front of his desk.

"Ah, yes, Lieutenant, please have a seat.

Annalisa N'Vaati nodded politely and sat down. "Is there something I've done wrong?" She asked.

"No, of course not." Kamin assured. "Your work at this station has been exemplary. Which is why I'm reassigning you."

Annalisa became confused. "I don't understand, sir. I thought my record was exemplary?"

"Oh, it is. You are the main reason this station has been operating smoothly for two years. But, according to your file, Security and Tactical was your major at the Academy."

"There wasn't a tactical post available when I graduated. Operation specialist was the next best thing."

"Well, a tactical post has just opened up on the Enterprise-F and I recommended you to Admiral Janeway. She was more than happy."

"The position for Security Chief on the Enterprise has already been filled."

Kamin scoffed. "That hothead of a Lieutenant already has one foot out the door. One mistake, minor or major, and Janeway will have him in the brig in a matter of seconds. Then, you will be the new Security Chief. Until then, you can be an assistant."

Annalisa didn't understand this situation. Why was Kamin so eager in having Cyrus Vale removed from the Enterprise? Did they cross paths prior to today? Annalisa felt that there was an ulterior motive behind this, but she decided not to pursue it now. Instead, she smiled at her superior officer.

"Thank you for the opportunity, Commander Kamin." She thanked. "It was a privilege to work with you."

"And with you as well." Kamin smiled. "I have no doubt that you will succeed. Dismissed and good luck."

Annalisa smiled once again and exited the office. As soon as the young woman left, Kamin turned on his viewscreen and opened a secure channel. The viewscreen turned on, revealing a young Romulan woman. She had on a Romulan uniform and the traditional Romulan haircut. However, her face appeared human.

"It is done, Captain." Kamin said simply.

Does your Lieutenant suspect anything?

"Not a thing."

And I thought Cyrus Vale being assigned to the Enterprise would be a problem for us. But this is better than I anticipated. You did well, Kamin.

"All in the good of our cause. Soon, Cyrus Vale will be executed and the Cardassian/Romulan Alliance will take over the Federation. Starfleet won't know what hit them." Kamin laughed evilly and the woman followed suit.

Noah Hathaway packed the rest of his belongings and proceeded to leave his rented quarters to go to the christening ceremony of the USS Enterprise-F, which starts in a half hour. He caught sight of his roommate and best friend sitting on the sofa, looking at a picture. He looked despondent.

"You're not still homesick, are you?" Noah asked.

Sean Corbin Riker shook his head. "No, I'm fine."

Noah nodded and started to leave when he glanced at the picture. It was a picture of Sean and Nina Maddox, the other Ensign assigned to the Enterprise. They looked like they were getting along. One would even conclude, at first glance, that they were best friends. Noah shook his head and sighed.

"Dude, just talk to her." He suggested.

Sean looked at Noah. "I have nothing to say to her."

"That incident at the Academy happened four years ago. It doesn't matter to anyone anymore."

"It matters to me!"

"Sean, you guys were kids. We do reckless things as kids. People grow up and change over time. Nina is trying to be a better person, Starfleet saw that, I see that. And you can see that too, otherwise you wouldn't be holding on to that picture."

"I don't care if Nina is trying to be a better person." Sean said. "She is a selfish manipulator and I don't want anything to do with her anymore." He threw the picture on a nearby table, got his things and headed out the door when he felt Noah's hand on his arm.

"So, you're just going to avoid Nina all throughout this voyage? The Enterprise isn't a big ship, you guys are bound to run into each other sooner or later."

"I've managed to avoid her at the Academy for three years, a starship won't be that difficult."

Sean released his arm from Noah's grasp and walked out of the quarters. Noah sighed in resignation. He picked up the picture Sean left behind, gathered his things and left to follow Sean to the hangar. The boys were halfway to the hangar when they ran into Nina Maddox and K'Jai. Sean and Nina stared at each other, but neither of them said anything. Noah decided to ease the tension.

"So, Nina, excited about the journey?" He asked, smiling.

Nina managed a small smile. "Yeah, I'm really excited."

"It will be quite an interesting experience." K'Jai added.

"You're right, K'Jai, it will be a great experience." Sean agreed. "With all the smart officers aboard, Nina won't have anyone to manipulate." He left before anyone could say anything. Nina shook her head, trying to control her anger. Noah looked at her compassionately.

"It'll be okay, Nina." He reassured. "I'm sure Sean will come around."

"I highly doubt that." Nina scoffed as she gathered her things.

K'Jai and Noah watched as the young woman walked away. K'Jai had a quizzical look on her face.

"Humans are extremely attached to events of the past." She observed.

"Yeah, the past is sometimes special to us." Noah said.

"One cannot change the past, Noah. It is illogical to reflect on things you cannot change."

"Sometimes we look to the past to gain experience for the future."

Noah smiled at K'Jai as he left for the ceremony. K'Jai regarded Noah's words. They had some logic to it. The past can be a great teacher for the future. Maybe Noah Hathaway was a lot intelligent than K'Jai had given him credit for. The Vulcan raised her eyebrows in amusement as she headed to the hangar for the ceremony.

The Christening Ceremony- 09:00 hrs.

The main hangar in Washington Station had never been more abuzz prior to today. The Christening Ceremony of the USS Enterprise-F was about to take place and the ship's crew and their families were in attendance. The crew was divided into three groups according to their areas of expertise. In the far left were the Engineering and Science officers in yellow uniforms. In the front row were the Senior Officers, Lieutenant Brendan Scott (Transporter Chief), Lieutenant Commander Molly O'Brien (Chief Engineer) and Lieutenant Commander Wesley Crusher (Science and 2nd Officer). In the far right were the Health and Medical Officers in blue uniforms. The Senior Staff in front row were Chief Medical Officers Dr. Sunnita Bashir & Dr. Kylie Ramirez and the ship's counselor Lieutenant Commander Aidan Kantar. The group in the middle consisted of the Executive Officers and Pilots in red uniforms. In the front row was Frist Officer Commander Geordi La Forge. The people were talking and getting acquainted before the ceremony started. Brendan saw Aidan coming towards him and decided to meet her halfway.

"Everything fine with ya, luv?" He asked, smiling.

"I'm okay." Aidan replied. "I'm just worried about Cyrus."

"Oh yeah. I heard Admiral Janeway ripped him a new one shortly after the briefing. Really harsh. How's he holdin' up?"

"I don't know, he won't talk to me. Do you think the Federation has a hidden agenda about Genosha?"

Brendan looked pensive. "It's hard to say, Lass. But Cyrus was right about one thing. The Federation don't really do first contact missions on a planet with no warp. But, it's probably nothing."

"I hope you're right, Brendan." Aidan sighed.

"It'll be alright, Aidan." Brendan reassured. "You know Data is a smart man. If there's something amiss, he won't leave no stone unturned."

Aidan smiled and gave Brendan a hug. "I knew I liked you for some reason."

"Me mum always said I was like haggis." Brendan laughed. "Some people love me, others don't."

The door to the hangar swooshed open and Lieutenant Cyrus Vale walked in. Brendan saw his best friend enter the hangar and broke his embrace with Aidan.

"Cyrus just arrived, guess it's time for the ceremony to begin. See ya on the ship."

Aidan gave Brendan one last smile before heading back to her place in the group. The rest of the crew also got the hint that the ceremony was starting and returned to their perspective groups. Cyrus stood in front of the groups looking stoic. But inside, he was terrified. This was the first assignment Cyrus ever had in three years and he couldn't help to feel trepidation about the whole thing. Aidan could feel Cyrus' nervousness, so she released her calming pheromones to him. Cyrus felt a calmness take over him and knew that it was Aidan's doing. He gave her a knowing smile. There were some crewmembers murmuring against Cyrus and snickering at him. Geordi noticed this and cleared his throat loudly, giving everyone a death glare. The commotion immediately stopped. After everything was quiet, Cyrus began the ceremony.

"Crew, Attention!" He barked. The crew stood at an attentive stance. "The Christening Ceremony for the USS Enterprise-F is about to begin. Admiral and Captain on deck."

Admiral Kathryn Janeway and Captain Data entered the hangar wearing their formal uniforms. Janeway stepped up to the podium and proceeded to speak:

"Since the days of long ago, sailors have had christening ceremonies such as this to wish their ship well on its maiden voyage. Today is no different. We are here to christen the Federation starship USS Enterprise-F. The Enterprise has a special place in Federation history as well as in our hearts. As was with the original Enterprise commanded by Captain James Tiberius Kirk, the mission has not changed. You will be exploring uncharted territory and new worlds. Seeking out life and civilizations that no one has ever encountered before. You will be faced with adversaries and oppositions. However, as Starfleet officers, you will not be deterred. Some of you are here on the Enterprise because of your remarkable records in Starfleet or because of your amazing potential. Others, purely by sheer dumb luck." Aidan felt a twinge of anger inside of Cyrus. She couldn't help but be irritated herself by the Admiral's comment. Aidan knew that Admiral Janeway wasn't keen on Cyrus being on the Enterprise, let alone its Security Chief. But to make that blatant remark, Aidan thought it was insulting and childish on Janeway's part. Data noticed Cyrus and Aidan's expressions and concluded that Janeway's last comment was directed at Cyrus. Janeway continued: Regardless of what led you to this point, you are about to be a part of history. In conclusion, if you carry on this mission with the same drive and determination as you would any other assignment, then you will be placed in history along with other crewmembers who served aboard the Enterprise. Now without further ado, let's continue with the ceremony. Captain Data, if you would join me on stage."

Data walked up to the podium and stood face to face with Admiral Janeway.

"Raise your right hand, Captain." Data raised his right hand. Janeway continued: "Do you solemnly swear to assume command of the USS Enterprise-F and uphold this command while adhering to the laws of the Federation and the regulations of Starfleet, including the Prime Directive, with honor, fairness, courage and respect?"

"I solemnly swear." Data swore.

"Read the statement on this PADD." Janeway commanded, handing Data a PADD.

Data proceeded to read the statement: "By order of the United Federation of Planets, I, Captain Data, willingly assume the command of the USS Enterprise, NCC-1701-F, Explorer Class starship on Stardate 2386.415 under the direction of Admiral Kathryn Janeway." He gave the PADD back to the Admiral.

"By the power invested in me by the United Federation of Planets, I hereby christen the USS Enterprise-F and declare it a Starfleet-commissioned starship." Janeway said.

The crew cheered loudly and Janeway held her hand out to halt all commotion.

"Before we conclude the ceremony, your Captain will like to say some words of encouragement. The stage is yours, Mr. Data."

Janeway stepped aside for Data to speak. Before he did, he paused for 1.28 seconds to reflect. In that 1.28 seconds, Data reflected on his command and what led him to this moment. It seemed as it were yesterday that Data was a newly formed android who joined Starfleet. As Lieutenant Commander of the Enterprise-D, Data learned a lot about loyalty, corruption, life, pain, love and death. His journey brought him closer to humanity than he could ever imagine. Even though he was older and wiser, Data still felt that he had much to learn especially as Captain. And being the only Android captain in Starfleet, Data had a lot to prove. But he believed that his past experiences and the lessons he learned has prepared him for this moment. Data then reflected on his Senior Staff. The people he chose to help him lead the Enterprise all had enormous potential. But from the standpoint of others, they had a lot to prove.

Data reflected on his First Officer, Geordi La Forge. Geordi is Data's best friend, he couldn't see himself taking this journey without him. They've been through a lot together serving aboard the Enterprise-D. Geordi was born blind and had to rely on a visor to see for years. Geordi now has eye implants and he never let his disability become a crutch. However, being an Engineer for most of his life, Geordi had little experience in commanding. Data knew that Geordi had to prove to everyone that he will be capable as a First Officer as he was Chief Engineer. Data was confident that Geordi will more than exceed expectations. Data reflected on his other best friend, Aidan Kantar, the ship's counselor. Data knew Aidan longer than anyone, even Geordi. When they met 25 years ago, at the Academy, Aidan was a crown princess of the planet Lyrica. In retrospect, she had everything a young girl could ask for. But Aidan chose to renounce her royal title to join Starfleet. Data witnessed the struggle Aidan went through to prove to everyone that she was serious about her career. Aidan has come a long way since the Academy and has made a name for herself in Starfleet. However, she still had to prove, not only to her family, but to her people and other doubters that she was more than just rich, spoiled royalty trying to "find herself." Aidan Kantar had compassion, fairness and determination. Data had faith in her, not just because they were best friends. He knew the woman she was.

Data then reflected on two of his Senior Staff officers with legacies to uphold: his Second Officer, Wesley Crusher and his Chief Engineer, Molly O'Brien. Both Wesley and Molly had parents that were in Starfleet. Both served on the Enterprise-D with Data and both had distinguished careers and amazing reputations. Wesley's mother, Beverly Crusher-Picard, was the Chief Medical Officer on the Enterprise before taking a position at Starfleet Medical. She's currently the leading doctor on Starbase Armstrong. Of course, Wesley's stepfather was Jean-Luc Picard, the former Captain of the Enterprise and now Ambassador to Vulcan. Molly's father, Miles O'Brien, was the Transporter Chief on the Enterprise. He then became Chief Engineer on Deep Space Nine and was instrumental in the Dominion War. He taught Engineering for the rest of his career before retiring. Both Beverly and Miles left an outstanding legacy in Starfleet. The pressure to follow in their parent's footsteps is intense for any child. Given Beverly and Miles' high reputations, Wesley and Molly had that kind of pressure, not only from everybody they knew but also from themselves. But Data knew their potential. Wesley was a problem solver and had amazing abilities. Molly was intuitive and knew her way around a warp core. Each of them was like their parents in many ways, but Data didn't choose them for his Senior Staff because of what their parents accomplished. They had their own accomplishments and qualities worthy of recognition. Molly O'Brien and Wesley Crusher were Starfleet officers and Data was confident in their abilities. Considering legacies, Data reflected on another Senior officer with a rich Starfleet heritage: Brendan Scott, his Transporter Chief. Brendan's great-great-great grandfather was Montgomery Scott, affectionately known as Scotty, the Chief Engineer of the original Enterprise commanded by Captain James Kirk and one of the leading pioneers of Transporter technology. Brendan was an intelligent young man, albeit eccentric. He was very knowledgeable about Transporters, but no one ever took him seriously because of his charming personality. Data figured because Brendan wasn't looking for a handout, he never mentioned about his family lineage. Even if he did, Starfleet viewed Brendan as some kooky guy with too many loose screws and a flippant attitude. But beyond his eccentricity, Data saw a genius to Brendan that no one saw before. While most people stayed within their comfort zone and try to solve things within normal parameters, Data knew that Brendan thought outside of the box and saw the bigger picture of things. Brendan had to prove to everyone who admired and respected Scotty's legacy that he was just as great as his grandfather, if not better. Data had full confidence in this underrated genius.

Data then reflected on his two Chief Medical Officers, Kylie Ramirez and Sunnita Bashir. Both were capable doctors who faced many obstacles and had a lot to prove. Kylie, for her part, was a gifted young woman. In fact, she was the youngest Chief Medical Officer in Starfleet at only 22. But during her assignments prior to the Enterprise, Kylie was criticized and judged due to her age. Officers would second-guess her work, undermine her authority and basically treated her like a child. Data understood Kylie's plight. As a young Android, Data struggled with acceptance from his colleagues. He was even put on trial for his rights as a sentient being. Data's journey not only solidified him as one of Starfleet's finest officers but proved to everyone that he was more than just his parts. Kylie had to prove all her life that she was strong and smart enough to handle pressure. Yes, she was young, but there was more to her than that certain aspect. Data recognized Kylie Ramirez's potential, and he was confident in it. His other Chief Medical Officer, Sunnita Bashir, was another story. Sunnita was the opposite of her brother, Julian. While Julian had a gentle soul and a sensitive demeanor, Sunnita was brash, arrogant and difficult. She butted heads with everyone she met, including Data. He couldn't fathom why this woman was so rude. If there was a reason, it was lost on him. But beyond that rough exterior, Sunnita was dedicated and strong-willed. She did what was best for her patients regardless of their transgressions. Those qualities were the reason why Data considered her for Assistant Chief Medical Officer. And although she initially turned down the position, Sunnita came to Admiral Janeway and reconsidered the offer. Data didn't know why Sunnita reconsidered after she was so adamant in not taking the position. He concluded that Sunnita wanted to show everyone that she can work well with others. In any rate, Sunnita Bashir had something to prove, mostly to herself: that she wasn't as difficult as some thought her to be and that she can be more compassionate and cooperative. Data had his reservations about Sunnita, but he didn't mind if she'd proved him wrong.

Data finally reflected on the one officer on his Senior Staff that had the most to prove: his Security Chief, Cyrus Vale. Cyrus was half-human, half-Romulan. And since the Federation's relationship with Romulus was shaky, Cyrus' heritage was reason enough to rouse anyone's suspicion. But for most people who didn't know Cyrus' heritage, had another reason to become suspicious of him: Amador V. When he was serving on the Roosevelt, Cyrus' away team and a whole village on Amador V was slaughtered. Cyrus was the only survivor. Everyone immediately accused him of the crime even though there was no evidence to support it. But instead of fighting to prove his innocence, Cyrus took full responsibility of what happened. He was demoted to Lieutenant and wasn't assigned to another Starfleet post for three years. No one knew why Cyrus would make such a decision that would more likely ruin his Starfleet career, but Data figured that Cyrus was trying to protect his family, friends and most importantly his then girlfriend, Aidan Kantar, from the scrutiny. But the disgrace proved to be too much for Cyrus to handle. He lost all his friends and the friends that did stick with him, Cyrus alienated. He broke off his relationship with Aidan and became reclusive and started drinking heavily. There were a few people who still believed in Cyrus' innocence, however. Aidan, of course, and Molly O'Brien being one of them. Molly convinced Wesley to talk to Data about giving Cyrus the position of Chief Security Officer of the Enterprise. It was the most controversial decision that Data has made, given that Cyrus wasn't exactly popular with everyone. Even Admiral Janeway wanted the man gone. But it didn't matter to Data weather or not Cyrus was guilty or innocent. What's past is past. In the time Data got to know Cyrus, he saw that this young man took extreme pride in his work. He was loyal, brave, and put the safety of others above his own. Cyrus Vale was an excellent Starfleet officer and a good man that was dealt a bad hand and suffered greatly for three years because of it. Most people would be so bitter about the situation that they would refuse an opportunity of a second chance. Cyrus wasn't most people. He was bitter about his plight, yes. But he knows a second chance when he sees it and was willing to take it. Data knew that Cyrus had the most to prove; to everyone that viewed him as either a criminal, disgraced officer or an incompetent man. But Cyrus Vale had a shot at redemption and Data knew that he wasn't going to take that lightly.

Data reflected on all of this in 1.28 seconds. To humanoids, 1.28 seconds is just that, 1.28 seconds. It wasn't a long pause at all. But to Data, that was a very long pause to reflect on what's ahead of him and his crew. So, Data put all his contemplations into words and began to speak to his crew:

"Thank you all for coming. I also would like to thank Admiral Janeway for this opportunity and I like to thank my Senior Staff and all of you for agreeing to take this journey with me. I will not talk about what an honor it is for me to be captain of the Enterprise. I already know that. I also will not talk about how dangerous this voyage will be and that we will face many enemies and obstacles. You already know that otherwise you would not have enlisted in Starfleet. Instead, I will reiterate what the Admiral said earlier. You are all here today for specific reasons. Regardless of that reason, great potential was obviously seen in you and you are here now." Data looked at Cyrus as he said this: "It does not matter to me what people thought of you, who your family was, what your legacy was, what you did in your past…. or what people believed you had done in the past. I am not focused on past experiences or mistakes. I am focused on your what you will do now on the Enterprise." Cyrus looked at Data, taking what he said to heart. He knew that no one wanted him on the Enterprise so to have the Captain emphasize that he wanted him there, it meant a lot to Cyrus. Data continued: "Although various reasons brought us here, we all have something to prove. If not to ourselves, it is to someone else. The Enterprise has a remarkable history with excellent and unique crewmembers. I would like to think of us as the underdogs out of all the crewmembers serving aboard the Enterprise. Yes, we have a lot to prove, but we also persevere against all odds. If we work together, we will not only prove to those naysayers that the Enterprise-F will be just as good as its predecessors, but we will be better. Report to your stations and let this journey begin!" The crowd erupted in thunderous applause as their resolve was strengthened. Data smiled and came over to his Security Chief, who had a grateful look on his face.

"Thank you, Captain." Cyrus thanked, smiling.

Data smiled and extended his hand to Cyrus who graciously reciprocated. "You deserve to be on the Enterprise, Cyrus." He said. "Do not let anyone tell you different. Now let us make history happen."

Cyrus smiled and followed Data on to the ship. But not before giving Admiral Janeway a smug yet triumphant look. The Admiral, for her part, narrowed her eyes at Cyrus but said nothing.

USS Enterprise-F

Data looked around his ready room on the Enterprise-F. It was sophisticated but with a modest taste. It felt so surreal to him that this was his command. He knew about the command for about a month, but it was just starting to sink in. Data sat down at his desk and smiled, tears threatening to stream down his eyes. He was the Captain of the USS-Enterprise-F. Sure, he was Captain of the Enterprise-E but that was after Jean-Luc Picard became Ambassador to Vulcan. But no one commanded the Enterprise-F before Data. This was his Enterprise, and his alone. No one would take that away from him.

The bridge of the Enterprise-F was smaller than its predecessor, but it was spacious. There were two consoles in the front, one for Science Ops and the other for helm control. At the top of the Bridge, were the consoles for Security Chief and Engineering. At the center were three chairs. Geordi La Forge sat in the middle chair intended for the Captain. He was making some last-minute checks before docking out of Washington Station.

"Has the crew reported in, Lieutenant Vale?" Geordi asked Cyrus.

"All the crew has reported to their respective decks, Commander." Cyrus replied.

"Did all the decks report in?"

"All decks have reported in and so far, no safety issues that will hinder this voyage have been reported. Phasers are online, and shields are at 100%. The Enterprise is ready for takeoff."

"Thanks Cyrus." Geordi began to check on Sickbay. "La Forge to Sickbay."

Sickbay here. This is Ramirez.

"Is everything situated down there, Kylie?"

Kylie Ramirez looked around Sickbay, observing the medical staff getting the room settled. "We're in the middle of getting things organized right now but everything is running smoothly, Geordi. No problems to report here."

Alright, that's good to hear. The Captain wants to make sure Sickbay's up and running in case we run into some problems in Genosha.

"Acknowledged. Dr. Bashir and I will get everything ready before we reach Genosha. Ramirez out."

After she ended her communication with Geordi, Kylie went over to Sunnita Bashir who was checking on the medical Tricorders.

"Dr. Bashir, I want you to gather all of the Ensigns and medical personnel." She instructed. "We're going to have a brief meeting before we take off. You don't have a problem with that, do you?"

Sunnita looked at the younger doctor. "What makes you think I have a problem with it?"

"Because from what I heard, you don't take orders from a child."

"We all make sacrifices, dear." Sunnita laughed. "Taking orders from someone over a decade younger than me is just a small one."

"Good. I don't want any problems between us since we're going to be working together."

"Don't get on my bad side, Dr. Ramirez and I'll try not to step on your toes. Deal?"

Kylie nodded. "Deal."

Brendan Scott was admiring the shiny, new Transporter Room when he was contacted by the Bridge.

Bridge to Transporter Room. Geordi's voice chirped.

"Scott here." Brendan replied.

Are the transporters functioning properly, Lieutenant?

"Transporters are runnin' smoothly and efficiently, Commander." Brendan beamed. "Worthy of me grandfather's praise."

Geordi laughed. I'm sure he'll agree with you, Brendan. Make sure you do routine checks every two hours. La Forge out.

Geordi was about to check on Engineering when the doors to the ready room swooshed open and Data walked on the Bridge.

"Captain on the Bridge!" Cyrus announced. The bridge crew stood at attention.

"At ease." Data commanded. To Geordi, he asked: "Have all decks reported ready, Geordi?"

"I haven't checked on Engineering yet, Data." Geordi answered.

"I will do so." Data called Engineering. "Bridge to Engineering."

Engineering here. This is O'Brien. Molly O'Brien's voice chirped.

"Is everything running efficiently?"

Warp core is online and running beautifully, Captain. Impulse engines and nacelles are online. This should be a smooth voyage.

"Acknowledged and good work, Molly. Carry on with your work. Data out."

The turbolift doors swooshed open, revealing the counselor of the Enterprise.

"Permission to come aboard, Captain?" Aidan Kantar asked.

Data smiled. "Permission is always granted, Tana."

Aidan smiled as she walked to the center of the bridge and stood next to Data.

"I had to ask," She quipped. "You do outrank me."

"Simply a formality. How is the morale of the crew?"

"Everyone is excited and ready for this mission. Your speech really rallied them up. It was beautiful."

"I meant every word." Data then addressed the helm. "Is the Enterprise ready for takeoff, Ensign?"

"The Enterprise is ready for departure, Captain." K'Jai replied.

Data looked at his two best friends. "Are you ready for this?"

"Ready as I'll ever be." Geordi replied as he sat down.

Aidan sat down as well. "Let's do it."

Data smiled. "Mr. Crusher, set a course for Genosha. Warp Seven."

Wesley Crusher put in the coordinates for Genosha. "Course laid in, Sir." He confirmed.

Data took one more look around the bridge and gazed at his crew before sitting down in the middle chair between Geordi and Aidan. He took a long breath before giving the command.

"Engage."

K'Jai revved up the Enterprise and the ship hummed with perfection as it went into warp. They were about to embark on their first mission. Little did Data and his crew know, that this mission was only the beginning of an incredible journey.

A/N: Hello, my fellow Liztopians and True Believers! It's been awhile since I updated this story, eight years to be exact. For those of you who loved the Nova Journey series, I deeply apologize for the hiatus. To be honest, I couldn't find the inspiration for this story. Also, there was this very belligerent and extremely rude fanfiction writer, WebMistressGina or Agent66, whatever she calls herself now, who thought she knew everything and took it upon herself to tell me to change my story and remove some key characters. Of course, I told her no and she started making insults about my writing and stories. That did discourage me a little bit and I shelved this story for a while. But lately, I've gotten inspired to pick this story up again and I'm proud of this chapter. I hope you all will love it too. So, Reid and Review and tell me what you think. You can be honest but NOT RUDE. There is a huge difference between honest criticism and just plain insults. And I will update this story soon. Nova Journey is back, Baby! Z.R.