I want to thank Robert Bruce Scott for proofreading this chapter.

Stardate 38680.90 (September 6, 2361)

U.S.S. Edison - Docking Port 2 Airlock (Deck 9)

Captain Grace McCallister stood at attention, the hum of the docking port a familiar symphony heralding the imminent departure of her ship. Today, the Edison was to receive new members into its fold, an event that lent a touch of personal significance to the day's routine.

Beside her, Commander Wes Hamill, the Edison's Senior Intelligence Officer, leaned with deceptive casualness against the bulkhead. His eyes, alight with the curiosity of a lifelong scholar, met hers. "Never thought I'd see the day you'd be the one waiting for newcomers," he teased, his smile softening the sharp lines of his uniform. He was covering for Commander Icid Ghaila, the Edison's first officer, who was currently preoccupied with personal matters.

Grace's lips twitched in response, her stoic facade unbroken. "Not every day we receive Rear Admiral Nechayev," she replied, her tone reflective as she considered their shared journey from the Academy to the captaincy of the Edison. "And Claire will be here soon—she's in good hands with Alynna." A hint of pride, maternal yet restrained, crept into her voice.

Wes's grin faded, replaced by a thoughtful frown. "The Admiral showing up... that's definitely interesting," he murmured, his brow furrowing slightly.

Grace nodded, her expression mirroring his seriousness. "Exactly. We need to talk to Alynna about this thing that popped up near the Delphi System. Tai-Anna's been pouring over the data from the starbase's probes and its own weird movements. It's sending out these bizarre signals, and we have no idea what it is."

"And speak of the devil," Wes remarked as the airlock cycled open, revealing Rear Admiral Alynna Nechayev. Her confident stride and penetrating gaze swept over the bustling starbase, meeting Grace's with the weight of old alliances and enduring friendships.

"Grace, it's good to see you," Alynna said, her gaze sweeping over the bustling starbase surroundings. "I checked in with Claire at the Starbase and had lunch with her. She's as sharp as ever."

"Indeed," Grace affirmed, her heart warming at the mention of her daughter.

At that moment, Ensign Claire McCallister emerged, her excitement tempered by a trace of nervousness. Alynna's arm was protectively slung around her, a silent testament to the rear admiral's commitment to her goddaughter.

"Mom!" Claire called out, her voice a blend of joy and reserve.

"Welcome aboard the Edison, Claire," Grace greeted her, deftly balancing her roles as mother and commanding officer.

"I met Commander Janeway and Commander Dhener—they seem really nice," Claire added, her eyes searching for her new colleagues, particularly Janeway, who blushed perceptibly.

Grace acknowledged this with a nod, observing the subtle exchange of smiles between Claire and Kathryn Janeway, the ship's new Chief of Operations. "Seems like Claire has already made an impression," Wes commented, his tone hinting at playful speculation.

Grace rolled her eyes, allowing a smile to break through. "I'll be keeping an eye on that," she said lightly, appreciating the supportive atmosphere that surrounded her daughter.

Turning to Janeway and Dhener, Grace extended a welcoming hand. "Commander Janeway, it's a pleasure to officially welcome you aboard the Edison. Your reputation precedes you."

Kathryn accepted the handshake with a confident smile. "Thank you, Captain. I'm eager to contribute to the Edison's mission—and to learn from you."

"And Commander Dhener," Grace continued, addressing the ship's counselor. "It's an honor to have you with us. The well-being of our crew is paramount."

Andrea nodded, her calm demeanor offering a silent promise of support. "I'm honored to be here, Captain. I'm ready to support both crew and mission."

Finally, Grace's gaze returned to her daughter, a silent vow of guidance and protection in her eyes. "Welcome aboard, Ensign McCallister. Ahead of you lies a remarkable journey."

Wes stepped forward, formally introducing himself to Janeway and Dhener, and offering a respectful greeting to Admiral Nechayev and Claire.

Alynna's eyes twinkled with unspoken news. "And one more thing, Grace. Our friend from the Academy, Earth's Ambassador Simone Archer will be joining us as part of the mission. She's been selected by President Voser's as the representative for the Federation Council for public relations purposes, to reassure the public, and maintain transparency ."

Surprise and curiosity flickered across Grace's face. "Ambassador Archer? That's quite the addition. We'll ensure she's fully equipped to fulfill her role."

Alynna nodded, her tone earnest. "I have every confidence in your leadership, Grace."

Wes inquired, "Admiral, will you be accompanying us on the Edison for the mission?"

Alynna confirmed, "I'll be staying for the duration, Wes. This assignment is of significant importance, and I intend to see it through."

Grace nodded, her resolve hardening. "Thank you, Alynna. Let's get everyone settled and briefed. We have much to do."

With a final nod to her crew, Grace led the way into the heart of the ship, ready to embrace the new dynamics and prepare for the voyage ahead.

Claire and Janeway, meanwhile, shared a few shy glances, their budding camaraderie a subtle undercurrent to the professional atmosphere that pervaded the Edison.

END