Captain's Log: Crumbling Foundations

Posted on Friday, 2 April 2021 - 1:21pm by Captain Barret Stillwater

Captain’s Log
Stardate: 71238.19444444461
Captain Barret Stillwater recording:

While departing what used to be Romulan space my starship and I met no resistance re-entering the old neutral zone and breaking back out into Federation-controlled space. Our mission was intended to be reforming with our previous flotilla assignment and continuing to work the trade routes and corridors to crush the increased piracy activities in the area; however, Starfleet Command had other plans. I had granted the request for leave of absence by two members of my crew: Petty Officer Baciami and Crewman Eberhardt. I saw no harm in granting their request as our work with the flotilla would keep up in the area for several weeks. We have, however, been rerouted.

A priority one transmission sent from Starfleet Command rerouted us immediately to Starbase 12 in the beta quadrant, practically a stone's throw from the alpha quadrant border and in the backyard of the Sol system. It has not been more than a few months since we were last on Earth where Soral and I were promoted in rank, and I nearly met my maker. Needless to say, I am not entirely fond of being so close to home these days.

Fortunately, Earth will have to wait. As we neared Starbase 12, we received another transmission. This time directly from Starbase 12's Station Commander who was also the Beta Quadrant Commander, overseeing all starship and station operations in the quadrant itself. I had never met Admiral Jemison in all my years of service, but the reputation that proceeds her is one that I hold in high regard and the utmost respect. She has only been the Quadrant Commander for a couple of months now, and under normal circumstances, I would be eager to meet with her.

However, a code 47 transmission sent directly by Admiral Jemison to myself and all starship Captains across several sectors, summoning us to Starbase 12 is alarming. I can still hear the unsettling recorded preamble to the transition when in the calmness of my quarters or ready room: 'This is an emergency communiqué. It is not to be discussed with fellow officers unless deemed absolutely necessary. There will be no computer record of said transmission.' Her message has left me little work with, but I know that the USS Standing Bear will not be rejoining that flotilla anytime soon and that this log will likely never be heard in my lifetime.

Wherever we are going and whatever this summoning is about, I believe in my crew. I know that Commander Soral is a fine First Officer and having him at my side despite our occasional differing opinions has done wonders for the morale of this crew, and for my growth as a starship Captain. I do not know much longer I will stay in this fight, but I do believe that I have found a comrade of peace and prosperity, willing to assume the mantle and work towards rebuilding the ethical fiber of the Federation, and restoring the prestige that Starfleet once held.

END CAPTAIN’S LOG
Authors Note:

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