Fleet Marines New Commission

by Swordwriter

Prequel to Fleet Marines. Second Lieutenant Rick Castle just graduated from the academy, joins the Commonwealth Fleet marines. He quickly becomes a seasoned veteran and combat commander. After being severely wounded in battle, his life is saved by the woman who will become the love of his life.

9. Chapter 8

FLEET MARINES

NEW COMMISSION

CHAPTER EIGHT

Headquarters Company, 01 June, 2451 06:50 hours.

Rick Castle walked into the headquarters bunker, found Captain Romanov and saluted.

"Lieutenant Castle reporting as ordered, si9r." Romanov sketched a salute.

"Dump your gear and sit down, before you fall down. Congratulations on your promotion, Rick. Now that you're my exec, you can drop the formality, in private. I have one question for you, before you hit the sack. How did you know that the attack was going to develop as it did?"

Rick rubbed his forehead.

"Do you remember that in our initial briefing, we were told that the Geldorians were not very innovative and tended to stick with" a plan that worked?"

"I remember."

"I was reading the intelligence briefings, earlier this week. The rebels have made a number of attacks on regular Geldorian units. Most of them have been repulsed, rather handily. The last two have been successful. In the first one, a company sized outpost was overrun and destroyed.

The second attack was on a newly formed Geldorian battalion. In that case, they were able to reach the headquarters building and kill the battalion commander and his staff, before they were driven off. Both times they used the same tactics they tried, this morning. When they overwhelmed the shield, I was sure that they'd try them again. The clincher came when private Ross spotted the assault company."

"Okay Rick, that explains it, take off and get some rest. By the way, that's Lance Corporal Ross."

Embassy apartments, 01 June, 2451 18:00 hours

Debra cursed, shut off her communications panel. She preferred it to her communicator, as it had a larger screen and better fidelity. She began pacing the room again. That was her tenth call to headquarters and they still wouldn't tell her anything. Invoking her consular rank had availed her nothing. The duty officer told her that the status of military personnel was classified information and unless she was next of kin, she didn't have the need to know. She didn't have the need to know? Who the hell was he to tell her she didn't have the need to know? What did he know about it? The embassy was only five kilometers from the military base. She'd been awakened in the middle of the night by what was obviously, even to her untrained ear a major battle. When she looked out, the night sky was lit by fire. Explosions rattled the glass in the windows.

The sight of the embassy guard deploying in full battle dress and setting up heavy weapons confirmed the situation. The embassy duty officer called and told her to stay in her quarters until the all clear was sounded. Debra was frantic, she knew that Rick had been on duty when the attack started. She had to know how he was, or she would break down.

"Damn it," she cursed. I can't take any more of this. I know that the ambassador should be able help me. She reached for her jacket and turned to open the door when the annunciator chimed.

"Yes, who is it?" she asked. She heard her secretary's voice.

"The all clear has been sounded. Will you please open the door for a personal message?"

"Very well!" she answered, somewhat curtly. She opened the door. Lynn was standing there, with a toothy grin. She was overshadowed by the haggard young man standing behind her.

"Rick!" She almost screamed. She pulled him into her arms and kissed him, oblivious to the juicy source of gossip she was providing Lynn. She pulled him into the apartment and slammed the door.

"Are you alright, you look like hell! She noticed the light bandage on his cheek. Sit down."

She saw him wince as he sat down.

"You're hurt!"

"Not seriously, a cut on my cheek and some bruises." She unfastened his jacket.

"Take that shirt off and let me see for myself."

"I've already been to sickbay. I'm fine."

"You don't move, like you're fine. Take that damn shirt off!" Rick shrugged and took the shirt off. From waist to shoulders, front and back, he was one large bruise.

"A few bruises? You look like a badly done Picasso." The sharpness in her voice, couldn't be hidden. The sharpness masking the overriding relief that he was alive and in one piece.

"What happened?"

"A grenade went off right behind me. My armor stopped the shrapnel but the blast knocked me down. Stamos and Durant weren't so lucky. They both bought the farm. can we please change the subject, I don't want to talk about it?"

"Alright, she said, when do you have to be back?"

"At first formation." He replied. She lightly stroked his neck.

"I'll order supper from the embassy kitchens. Meanwhile, I want you to soak in the bath. It will help. Then I'll give you a good rubdown with arnica cream."

Rick took a last sip of wine.

"You would think that with all of our modern medical technology we could do more for bruises and sore muscles than we do." Rick said.

"Sometimes, the old ways are the best. The electronic stimulators can be mis-set and some of the muscle relaxants can have unpleasant side-effect. Now, let's go to bed, to sleep."

"Sleep? I've got other ideas."

"I'm sure you do, but as big and tough as you are, you're not Superman. Tonight, we sleep."

Joint base Geldor, 1, October, 2451 11:00 hours.

First Lieutenant Richard Castle looked out over the parade ground. The flags of the Commonwealth, Geldor, two Marine divisions and the First Division of the Planetary Constabulary snapped in the stiff breeze. The change of command was over. Tomorrow, his division would lift ship for a new assignment. He had the rest of the day, until twenty-one hundred free. Dinner with Debra was planned and he was torn between looking forward to being with her and knowing it was the last time. They both knew that he was leaving and the chances of ever seeing each other again were minimal. He was a Marine, she was a diplomat. The dinner would be poignant, as both knew this was good-bye.

Rick touched the annunciator panel at the door to Debra's apartment. He was dressed in his best civilian clothes, newly tailored for him here. A silver-gray tunic over black shirt and dark gray trousers. He carried a bottle of good wine and a bouquet of purple flowers that resembled violets.

"Come in, please." Debra said as she opened the door, a somewhat sad smile on her face, they enjoyed a good dinner of Geldoran lobster with fingerling potatoes and a Caesar salad. They sat together on Debra's small couch, eating fresh berries and sipping wine. They talked of their time together and their respective duties. Finally, they ran out of things to reminisce about. Debra rested her head on Rick's shoulder. He had one arm around her shoulder, a glass of wine in his other hand. With a sigh, he took his arm from around her. Putting his glass on the small table in front of them, he turned to face her. He took her hands in his, slowly tracing circles with his thumbs on the backs. She looked at him with wide blue eyes.

"Debra, he began then stopped. He looked at the ceiling, searching for words, then back into her eyes. We've had a wonderful time together, but we both know that we have to go our own separate ways. I don't want-She placed a hand over his mouth to quiet him.

"I know. You don't want to hurt me, you're sorry that we have to break up and you'll mis me. I know, I feel the same way. We both knew that this wouldn't last forever. You have your duty and I have mine. So perhaps there's nothing more to say, except good-bye, I'll think of you."

Rick smiled at her, cupping the side of her face in one large hand. She held it with her own, closing her eyes and leaning into it. They sat like that for a few moments. Then she opened her eyes and smiled up at him, a hint of moisture in her eyes.

"Don't cry." he whispered. She shook her head. He took her face in his hands and lifted it to his own. Gently, softly he began kissing her. The kiss went on for some time, both of them putting unspoken feelings into it. They broke apart, at last. They gazed at each other for a moment, then he quickly rose and gathered his jacket. She followed him to the door, where he turned, gave her a quick kiss and said;

"Friends, always. She nodded and with a twinkle in his eye, he said; God-bye, I'll think of you." She gave a small laugh and he raised his hand in farewell. The door slid shut behind him. Just outside the door, Rick leaned his head against the wall, the smile falling off is face. God, I'm going to miss her. He took a deep breath and continued on his way.

Debra walked to the window, one hand pressed to her mouth, the other crossed at her stomach.

She stared out, unseeingly at the twinkling lights of the city, for a long time. Finally, she took her hand down and gave a shuddering sigh, she sat on her bed and put her hand on the pillow, remembering Rick's head on it, beside her own. She bit her lip, trying to hold back her tears. She had known it was going to, had to end. Dear God, I'm going to miss him. She stared out the window, again as her tears made tracks down her cheeks.

"Good -bye, I'll think of you." She whispered.

Fleet Base, Alpha Centauri, 15 October, 2451, 13:00 hours

The Belleau Woods was getting maintenance and a minor refit at the orbiting maintenance facility. It was also getting replacements. Some men had been killed on Geldor, some wounded and others enlistments had run out. Some of the Marines and crewmen had liberty on the planet. Rick had stayed on board, working on the company roster. Captain Romanov came in, accompanied by a tall Centauran officer. Rick stood up when they entered.

"Lieutenant Castle, this is Second Lieutenant Delnor Kevan. He's just finished the officer's basic course and is joining us. He's assigned to Headquarters Company. I would like you to show him the ropes."

"Aye-Aye, sir. Welcome aboard, Mister Kevan." He shook hands with the Centauran. Rick looked him in the eyes and liked what he saw. A man looking back, with confidence, his bearing straight, his uniform impeccable.

"Thank you, sir, it's good to be here. I know I've still got a lot to learn."

"I like your attitude Mister Kevan. If you want to learn, we'll teach you."

Rick looked the man over. He was as tall as Rick but slender and lithe

. He had the auburn hair, honey- colored skin and slightly slanted brown eyes that most Centaurans shared. It was astonishing how much two men from different ethnicities looked alike. Both had strong, square jawed, handsome faces. They didn't know it, at the initial meeting, but they were destined to be close, life-long friends. After three months of training, Rick, with Romanov's approval assigned Del to the recon platoon, working under Lieutenant Delacroix.

Aboard the Fleet hospital ship C.S.S. Clara Barton, 02 May 2452 11:00 hours

Lieutenant Katherine Beckett, Fleet Medical Corps, strode off the shuttle craft onto the deck of the receiving bay. The Clara Barton was the Fleet's newest and most advanced hospital ship. Built on a battleship hull, she had the very best in both equipment and crew. Assignment to such a ship was something even seasoned medics strove for. Being the sister of Commodore Beckett had its advantages. But even Jake's influence wouldn't have helped without her outstanding work. She was a genius and a prodigy, graduating high school at twelve, college at fifteen and medical school at nineteen. She did her internship and residency at Fleet Base Hospital in San Francisco, completing both in three years. Yet she was not what most people expected when reading her record. She was a beauty. Wavy dark hair framing a heart-shaped face, straight nose, full lips and large hazel eyes. She was tall, about 1.8 meters, much of that in her long, elegant legs supporting a slender, perfectly proportioned figure. Her duffel slung over her shoulder, Katherine followed her assigned yeoman out of the landing bay and to the office of the Chief Medical Officer, located near the bridge.

Upon entering the office, Katherine was led to the adjutant's desk. She said to the adjutant, "Lieutenant Beckett, here to see Captain Sevilla." The woman, an ensign by her pips, consulted her screen and then touched her communicator.

"Rogers to Captain Sevilla."

A pleasant tenor answered. "Sevilla here."

"Lieutenant Beckett to see you, sir."

"Send her in."

Ensign Rogers gestured towards the door and said, "Go right in, ma'am."

Katherine set down her duffel and walked to the door. It slid open as she approached, and she walked in, taking a deep breath and releasing it slowly.

She approached the Captain's desk, came to attention, and saluted. "Lieutenant Beckett, Katherine, reporting aboard, sir."

He returned the salute and said, "At ease, Lieutenant. Welcome aboard." She relaxed, and he told her to take a seat.

Captain Brian Sevilla looked at her. So, this was Jake Beckett's sister! Jake had said that she had wavy dark hair and hazel eyes, and was tall, but she was lovelier, and taller, than Sevilla had imagined. Her face was delicately boned, and spoke of great intelligence and sensitivity. Her gaze was clear and direct. He sensed a lot of energy in her that indicated a dedicated worker. He was pleased to be getting such a highly recommended officer, as well as one who had such clout. They would need it in dealing with some of the people of varied species they would encounter on their mission.

Katherine, for her part, was observing Sevilla. He seemed to be about fifty, with black hair going gray at the temples, and deep-set blue eyes. He had the wide, flat cheekbones of a Celt, but he was also thin and wiry, with a small goatee bespeaking his Spanish heritage. She had heard that he was a good commander, and a fine surgeon, with a wicked sense of humor. She knew that he could encourage, but never coddle, his office, and that she would learn much under his command, both medical and administrative.

Captain Sevilla smiled at Katherine. His eyes lit up with a warmth that most junior officers found surprising. "We're glad to have you aboard, Lieutenant. I've heard good things about you. And not all of them from Jake."

"You know my brother, sir?" Katherine was taken by surprise. People knew of Jake, but she rarely met those who actually knew him. She and her brother didn't travel much in the same circles.

"I certainly do," he replied. "There have been several Friday nights when my wife and my wallet both wished I did not. Or, at least not at the poker table. Don't let that last aside bother you," he added. "Jake is as good a friend as any man could ask for. But get one thing straight." His features stilled and grew serious. "How well you do on this ship will be based on only one thing: your own ability. Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes sir, perfectly clear," she replied.

"Very good, Lieutenant." His smile returned. "That will be all for today. Get your quarters assignment, unpack and get settled in. There will be a welcoming dinner in the wardroom at 19:00 hours. You're not the only new doctor that reported aboard today. Relax, enjoy the party tonight. I will expect to see you here at 0900 tomorrow for an in-depth interview. We will finalize your assignment at that time. Again, welcome aboard. I believe that you will enjoy the assignment. That will be all for now. Dismissed!"

Katherine arose, saluted smartly, and left the room. Sevilla smiled again and thought, I hope she's as good as they say she is. This upcoming campaign is going to be a bitch! One thing is certain: she brightens the day by just being there. Smiling, he went back to his reports.

Kate walked over to the bar and ordered a glass of synthahol. She would have liked to try some old Earth brandy, but she started duty the next day and wanted to do so with a clear head. She picked up the glass of the dark purple liquid and leaned against the bar, observing the people around her. The dancing was in full swing. She could see several high- ranking people present.

She idly glanced over at the doorway and raised one eyebrow as Lily Warren, one of the new nurses entered on the arm of a clean-cut young Marine. She'd seen few human men as large as this one. Much taller than she was, broad shouldered and handsome as well. Lily smiled up at him, almost simpering as he swung her onto the dance floor. She followed the pair, with her eyes. Most men that big, didn't move that well. Almost like a professional dancer. So caught up, she was unaware of the rather large man sneaking up behind her. In a baritone rumble he said;

"Well, sis, are you looking for new patients, or just someone to play doctor with."

"Jake!" she whirled around to hug her brother, tightly. He picked her up off the floor. She laughed. "Put me down." As soon as he did, she smacked him on the arm the way she used to, as a child.

"You have a sick and twisted mind, but I'm glad to see you. What are you doing here anyway?"

He grinned; his eyes warm as he gazed down at her.

'Well, I could tell you, then I'd have to kill you!"

"Jake!" He laughed.

"Seriously, little sister, I was in the sector anyway, so I decided to enjoy the party. And who better to keep you out of trouble?"

She was looking lovelier than ever, her tall figure perfectly suited to Fleet full dress with its' dark blue top over a floor-length black skirt. Her Irish beauty was evident, with shining waves of hair halfway down her back and large eyes alive with mischief. With a smile on her lips, jake knew he was in for it.

"Speaking of trouble, brother, who is that Marine, over there?" He tried to look innocent as he scanned the immediate area."

"What Marine? I don't see any Marine." She rolled her eyes.

"Have you suddenly gone blind? The big one dancing with the blonde."

"Oh, THAT Marine, Well, he's Richard Castle and he's a pain in the ass!"

Kate raised an elegant eyebrow.

"My, my, such language in the presence of a lady! Those Fleet engineers must be corrupting your pure, innocent mind."

Jake turned and gave her that look she remembered from childhood.

She looked at the Marine again and said;

'Really, though, what did he ever do to you?"

Jake frowned, his eyebrows drawing together. He had black hair and green eyes, a square face that resembled their fathers. He was a burly man .1 meter taller than his sister. He usually had a pleasant manner and a clear baritone voice. He was an intelligent man and a dedicated engineer. Too dedicated sometimes. He had a wit as sharp as Kate's and was very protective of his sister, who had been his ward, after their parents had died in a starship accident. He was fifteen years older than Kate.

"Nothing personally, but he's what comes of over-educating cannon fodder. The guys a pilot, but he's also a special- ops drop ship trooper. He's as arrogant as hell and badgering the design bureau to redesign a shuttle craft into an assault /scout ship."

"That doesn't sound so bad. It's possible, right?"

"Yes, but the design he wants is pushing the envelope to the point of breaking it. He'd risk himself and his men for a few more weapons and speed."

"Oh!" Kate said. Her tone spoke volumes of understanding. Jake had a sore point about any design that pushed the envelope, since their patents had been killed due to a faulty design and rushed workmanship. She looked over at Rick. If the man wanted a risky design, Jake surely wasn't going to indulge him.

"He doesn't look stupid, or cruel. Do you really think he'd risk his men?" Jake frowned.

"Probably not, but he'll sure as hell risk himself." Kate shrugged,

"It doesn't matter. Just idle curiosity anyway. Hoping to get her brother off the subject, before it became too hot, she employed a tactic that had always worked in the past. It still did.

"He is quite the handsome specimen, isn't he?"

Jake instantly turned from the angry engineer to the overprotective older brother. Its amused Kate, when he did."

"Forget it Kate! He's too cocky for you to get along. He takes personal risks that sane men shouldn't. He's…"

"Calm down you overgrown watchdog; I was just commenting on his looks. Besides, he's otherwise occupied." She gestured to the dancing couple. Jake gave a smile of appreciation.

"And what a pleasant occupation, he does have."

Kate made a sound of disgust, and moved away from Jake.

Brothers! Always distracted by a pretty face, or other assets! Jake followed after his sister, chuckling as he went. He could still make him chagrined. Moving around in front of her, he took her hand and bowed over it.

"Would the lady do me the honor of dancing with me?" Kate fought back a smile, for a moment, then gave in.

"I would be honored, kind sir."

Smiling, Jake led his sister out onto the floor. As they started, Kate thought once more about the tall Marine. He was handsome, but as she doubted that she would ever see him again, she put the thought from her mind and turned her attention to the action at hand.

Kate walked briskly along the corridor to her quarters. She set the environmental controls to provide a slightly warmer flow of air and the sound system to play soft music. Stripping off her clothes she set the tub for a long, hot bath. This was one of the benefits of serving on a new hospital ship. The engineers, after consultation with Fleet medical provided the doctor's quarters with small but wonderfully efficient tubs. Hot baths could go s long way to reducing the stress the doctors worked under. Anything smaller than one of the Mercy class ships wouldn't be large enough for that, nor would their water systems have been capable of handling the load. Kate thought about the month that had just passed. She had been assigned to a surgical team headed by Commander Gloria Wayne. A voluptuous, dark haired woman, she had the reputation of being one of the best surgeons in the Commonwealth, military or civilian. The work load had been heavy, but not excessive. Commander Wayne had been assigning as many surgery's as practical to the three young surgeons assigned to her team. She had learned a great deal in that month. Not only bout medicine, but the customs of the service. All doctors were commissioned into the service as lieutenants, nurses as ensigns or lieutenants' junior grade. She appreciated the time that Commander Wayne had spent with her. The only thing that bothered her, was why the newest hospital ship in the fleet was loitering around a star base, rather than getting underway as soon as her compliment was at full strength. Oh well, at least I get to see a lot of Jake. Wrapping a towel around herself, she walked over to her dresser. I have tomorrow off. I think I'll call Jake and see what he's up to.

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Swordwriter