Rising Above the Ashes (Part 2)

The chime of the communicator came over the shuttle intercom.

Syntron then stopped a young engineering crewman hustling by.

"Excuse me Ensign..."

"Jordan Brody, sir!" the ensign stated, snapping into place.

"At ease Ensign" the captain countered. "Do you know where Commander Rogers is?"

"Yes Sir, Captain. The Chief went to Astrometrics and then was headed to the bridge... er... to see you Captain."

Syntron looked from the ensign and then over to his first officer. He didn't need to say: Well now...he will not find me there if I am standing here now will he?

But he thought something like that for perhaps one nanosecond.

Instead he merely stated "Thank you Ensign" as he turned and headed out of engineering.

“Commander Rogers” the Vulcan began “We departed the engineering department merely moments ago. How has your inspection of the ship transpired thus far?”

David paused at the sight of the two officers confronting him. The speaker, a Vulcan with captain pips on his white collar, was obviously Syntron. And his comrade beside him with commander pips and a trimmed beard would be the Phoenix's executive officer Riker. Both men had a couple inches on him in height, and David made a cursory gesture indicating the lift, the doors of which waited open as David continued to block their closing.

"Captain Syntron; Commander", David nodded greetings. "Inspection? Well, more of a repair captain but yes, it went well as far as it got."

Looking toward Riker, David's own hazel eye's were reflected back from the commanders strikingly similar hazel gaze. David wondered how this human would react toward a half Romulan. Recalling his own academy days, David pushed down the memories of student hazings and pranks pulled against him by some of his less tolerant students. However, business came first, so Rogers returned his attention back to Captain Syntron.

"If I may suggest sir, could we get our department heads to help themselves to the amenities of my engineering people before they randomly start installing new equipment? We just had to reconfigure the EPS taps in astromentrics before their new installation pulled unnecessary power off of the shield emitters."

Nodding Riker agreed.

"I will include that in the brief tomorrow Commander.  First thing will be that  no crewmen is to install or upgrade anything without first checking with the engineering watch captain or Chief Engineer."

Clearing his throat Riker continued.

"While I would love to stay Captain if you will excuse me I have my check in medical screening scheduled in a few minutes I will be in sickbay if you need me for anything."

 “Understood Commander… Proceed.” Captain Syntron responded.

Nodding to the Captain and the Chief Engineer, Riker walked down the corridor stepping into a lift just out of sight.

After the  first officer departed, the captain turned to his chief engineer. 

“Perhaps we can make a fleeting visit throughout the Engineering sections Commander. You can briefly review the status of your department as we travel. Afterward, I will be making a brief visit to the Ember Lounge three levels up on deck 11. I have heard that this has already become a very popular locale on this ship. You are welcome to join me… if you are so inclined and your schedule allows a temporary hiatus from your duties.”

David smiled and indicated teh entrance to main engineering, allowing Captain Syntron to lead the way.

"Of course sir, after you."

 Entering the large room, David scanned quickly to make sure there was nothing of import occurring, and noticed that his crew was busy monitoring functions or studiously tracking consumption levels. As the ship was on station power, the core pulsed slowly, indicating it's stand-by mode. The pool table was flanked by the master ship's display, and there were comforting green power flows indicated across the display. He noted the shield emitter EPS tap was flowing normally and smiled to himself before addressing Syntron.

"As you can see captain, the emitter problem I mentioned before is resolved, but if you wish to see the log I can show you what an impromptu connection into a tap can do if not methodically mapped out. There was no danger I assure you, just an unnecessary drain to a critical system. If we had been at warp, the shields would not have been at one hundred percent protection."

David stopped at the point between the pool table and the MSD to allow Captain Syntron to study both if he so chose.

Inspecting the display of the ship’s status in his expected meticulous manner, Captain Syntron noted the flowing emerald indicators from the ships main systems. It was indeed a good sign.

“Excellent work Commander Rogers.” The CO noted as he followed all of the illuminated routes and pathways.

 “I can look at your report during the upcoming briefing. However, you may also choose to convey your concerns about impromptu connections to the other officers during your presentation.”

"I look forward to meeting the senior staff captain. As to those concerns? well, you know how small a fleet vessel is. I am sure the entire ship is by now aware of the episode in astrometrics."

 David became aware of a person behind him from the reflection of movement in Syntron's eye's. Glancing there, a young engineer stood PADD in hand, an obvious look of concern in her eye's but not wishing to intrude on the chief engineer and captain. David chose an introductory approach.

"Captain, my matter and energy specialist, Lieutenant junior grade Jennifer Brady. What is it Lieutenant?"

Brady assumed a posture of near attention at the direct introduction of her ship's commanding officer, acknowledging Syntron, but then went immediately to her concern.

Brady properly nodded at the Vulcan; 'Captain': Then studiously returned to her concern.

'Well Chief, warrant officer Wilson and I have some problems in shuttle bay one and require permission to shake down the shuttle's. Station docking control will not allow unauthorized traffic from the Phoenix without security clearance.'

"Alright Lieutenant, let us go get that squared away right now."

Facing captain Syntron again, David concluded their conversation.

"With your permission sir, duty calls. I'll have to pass on that lounge visit sir."

 “Your duty is your first priority Commander Rogers.  Permission granted… please proceed.” The captain replied with a gesture to acknowledge his immediate departure from their discussion.

Syntron  could see already in the work that his new chief engineer had presented that this was indeed a high caliber officer; one who not only could resolve issues but had that human characteristic of pride in his position and in the responsibilities that fell within his domain.

Captain Syntron continued to study the illuminated graphs and data from the MSD for several moments after the chief engineer left, but then resumed his course back to the turbolift and headed up to deck 11.

Arriving into the Ember Lounge Captain Syntron could see that the crew of the Phoenix was clearly embracing this welcoming environment to its fullest. Crew were scattered throughout the expansive area; some having meals, others drinks and snacks, still others engaged in a variety of games. The common factor among all of these choices was the jubilant interactions. The smiles, animated conversations, and laughter literally permeated the room.

To a typical Vulcan, this would seem to be counterproductive to the time provided off- duty. But Syntron had learned that it was through these seemingly pointless interactions that camaraderie was built and solidified. Crew members learned to trust and value each other through these exchanges and their level of productivity and ownership to their duty and to their ship and crewmates elevated to levels beyond any code or oath given. It was the catalyst to building unity among the crew and was especially priceless to a new crew of mostly strangers coming together to serve the federation and their fleet on this new ship.

After standing for a moment contemplating these thoughts the captain began to explore the lounge. Eventually he paused for a moment near the huge bay windows toward the aft of the vessel and could see off in the distance the work being done on the USS Horizon; the new fleet flagship commanded by his former captain. The Vulcan could see the work being done to repair the vessel but knew that this would not be the last time that the new flagship would face danger. However, he also knew that her chances of surviving and succeeding improved ten-fold under command of Captain Kheren and his new crew.

Moments later, Syntron walked over to the nearest bar area and ordered Vulcan spiced tea… extra hot.    

Lt. Commander Vincent walked into the Ember Lounge alongside his assistant Nidiri. They'd just finished a long discussion of department readiness in preparation for the next day's meeting and they looked ready to socialize. They headed to the bar, each ordered a synthohol, and took a seat. Josh scanned the bar to see his Vulcan Captain enjoying a drink a couple seats over.

"Hello sir," Josh said as he moved closer to the Captain. "How is your day going?"

Acknowledging the inquiry from his new tactical and security chief, Syntron responded "Relatively productive... considering our current circumstances Lieutenant Commander Vincent. How is your transition progressing aboard our new vessel here?"

"My transition is going rather smooth sir," Josh replied. Tipping his glass to Nidiri he added, "Nidiri has been a huge help."

Nodding in affirmation, Captain Syntron added  "Light is the task where many share the toil."

Then after taking a brief sip of the tea the Vulcan CO continued with his thoughts.

"As you know Lieutenant Commander, the security of this vessel and its crew is among our top priorities. Perhaps you can review the safeguards that we've recently implemented in our boarding procedures, identity confirmation, along with the other security protocols in place to ensure that we have no imposters or potential saboteurs sneaking onto this ship. Then you can describe the procedures and expectations  of weaponry and the armory that your security team has set in place."

Then gazing around the rooms for a moment at the crew enjoying their off-duty time, Syntron added "Basically Mister Vincent, just let our team know how you and your team will ensure their safety."

"Yes sir, I'll have a full report for you in the morning," Josh replied. "I plan to use security measures very similar to those used on the Artemis and the Lotus during Operation Horizon."

"Excellent Lieutenant Commander. From what I have seen from your dedication and diligence I would expect nothing less."

Taking another sip of tea, the captain then added an additional consideration.

"Some crewmembers like you, the CMO and I are quite familiar with their strict yet highly effective security protocols that were implemented on the Artemis and are now enabled on the Horizon as well. However, the majority of our new crew may not be familiar with the details of what is involved in these procedures and expectations; other than what they experienced coming aboard this ship. This will be your prime opportunity  to present the specific details of these protocols to the bridge officers so that they can convey these throughout their department. It will also afford these officers the opportunity to ask clarifying questions."

"Nidiri is working with security personnel as they come aboard to familiarize them with our procedures," Josh replied. "I have the procedures prepared for the other department heads to view tomorrow and my officers will be available to work with them to prepare the rest of their department before we launch. The most important part of these procedures has already been implemented; ensuring that nobody comes on board with unless we want them here."

Josh paused and finished off his drink as Nidiri did the same.

"Well sir, I've had a busy day, as I'm sure you have, so if you'll excuse me it's time for me to call it a night," Josh said.

Taking the last sips of his tea as well,  Captain Syntron concurred.

"Understood Lieutenant Commander Vincent. You both have certainly earned your respite. I will see you at tomorrow's meeting."

As the two security officers left the Ember lounge, the captain returned his glass and decided to continue his unofficial tour around the ship. He exited the lounge and headed for the nearest turbolift. He rode up one level to deck 10

Exiting the enclosure of the lift, Syntron passed the Docking Port Complex and then the Departure Lounge and went straight into the Arboretum. This would give the captain an opportunity to see if the Vulcan seedlings he had acquired had arrived in this department. It was his intention to set up a small garden area like he had thriving in the Arboretum on the Artemis before its destruction. He found it beneficial to supplement the replicated food with organically grown vegetation whenever possible.

While examining the area, Syntron checked to see if Ensign T'Arza Rumuvi, a Vulcan Biologist/Xenologist who also had an interest in Botany as a hobby was in the area or on duty. The captain had made arrangements with this Vulcan, the human Lieutenant J.G. Anita Muller whom he served with previously, and other similar contacts on the Starbase to secure additional seedlings before their departure. Given their current timetables, that wasn't going to allow more than a few weeks to secure these samples before their departure.

He could tell as he walked through and around the aisles that the Arboretum was still in its infancy stage. Containers of various shapes, sizes, and colors were meticulously labeled but not yet unpacked. But gazing at the allocated volume of the room which was equivalent to two decks in height alone, Syntron could envision the vast potential of this environment. He also knew that Lieutenant Anita Muller was experienced with this process; having helped to oversee it on the Artemis.

The captain then came upon one of his boxes. He looked closely and read the list of Vulcan plants that were contained within the box along a rough Terran equivalent of each specimen on a label:

Vulcan = Terran
     srandala = snap beans
 claulanees = cactus fruit
   silopt = broccoli
jenespera = peppers 
connikatrenti = onions
serranstivlen = pomegranate
ierstorindele = citris
treialeiahstrvoc = lettuce

Worst case scenario, they would  start off with the same group of plants that he had done previously as a Lieutenant. 

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Josh and Nidiri left the lounge and walked to their quarters together.

"I need you to run through our security procedures with Chief Park tomorrow morning and develop a training plan for the other departments," Josh said as they stopped outside Nidiri's door. "Then meet me at thirteen hundred hours, so we can make final preparations for the senior officers briefing."

"Will do. It shouldn't be much different than training our own personnel," she replied. "Good night Josh."

"Good night Nidiri."

Josh turned and walked into his quarters as Nidiri did the same. He set his combadge on the dresser, dropped his uniform, and slipped into bed.

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Since neither officer that he was looking for was currently on duty in the Arboretum, Captain Syntron exited the area and soon entered into the awaiting turbolift. This time his destination was up to deck 2: the Captain's quarters.

As the lift ascended, Syntron  was entrenched within his thoughts.  Exiting the lift, he was cognizant of the increased volume and amenities within this newly constructed vessel.  He had noted this in each of the locations that he had recently visited.

Arriving into his quarters, he could see that the extension of upgrades and enhancements translated here as well.  He noted that the captain's quarters were comprised of two rooms. The main room was a large, open cabin space containing a broad seating area of couches and chairs along a large, windowed wall. Nearby was an elongated dining table surrounded by matching chairs. Against a nearby wall, a complete technologically enhanced desk and entertainment center were elaborately embedded into its design. The desk area included a wall covered with framed awards, citations and several medals earned throughout his career in Starfleet and the Lotus fleet. Syntron realized looking at all of this that someone had taken extra time and effort to create this individual touch to this area. Next to this was a replicator built-in with a similar color and style.

The other room was also a rather large bedroom containing a bed and various fixtures such as several  chests-of-drawers, four closets and another video screen. These were all accented in complementary hues connecting walls, furniture,  paintings  and potted plants. He noted that the plants were of Vulcan origin and they were living, not artificial. They included an elaborate assortment of colorful  scented flowers that were more of a decorative nature.  The collection of  multiple paintings hanging throughout both rooms in the captain's cabin were dominantly scenes of Vulcan landscape and style as well.

On his bed was a newly placed Captain's uniform garnered with the appropriate pips and the USS Phoenix insignia. Next to this were his two cased instruments: the Vulcan Lyre and his Terran Violin. Syntron walked over and picked up the uniform and used its hanger to place it in the bigger of the nearby closets. He then walked over and picked up the two instrument cases and placed them in the closet next to his uniform. Afterward, he engaged the computer and called up some classical compositions. As the music began to play, he verbally called for adjustments. He lowered the volume, adjusted the equalization, and then slightly raised the temperature within his cabin. As he climbed on to the bed, he commanded the dimming of the lights as he closed his eyes and prepared to sleep for the first time in many days.

((Tag to anyone))