Time for Change

Posted on Sun Oct 8th, 2023 @ 8:22pm by Colonel Ezekiel Bagwell & Lieutenant Commander Leighton 'Leia' Dhej
Edited on on Sun Oct 8th, 2023 @ 8:26pm

1,145 words; about a 6 minute read

Mission: Episode 118 - "It's About Family"
Location: Various
Timeline: MD01 1100 hrs

Lieutenant Commander Leia Dhej gazed out of the viewport of the NAR Horizon, her heart racing with anticipation. She had decided to seek her own transportation to Starbase 400. There was no way she was going to head to Starbase 400 by crew transport vessel. Those ships were small and everyone was jammed in like sardines. The starship cruised through the depths of space, en route to Starbase 400, where she was about to embark on a new chapter in her life. After years of dedicated service to Starfleet, she had been selected as the USS Falcon's Executive Officer. The Falcon, was a support ship was assigned to Starbase 400. Beyond being the first officer she would also serve as the strategic operations officer for the station. She knew this role previously belonged to her Captain, Sarah Rodgers. It was a prestigious assignment, one that offered her a fresh start, and she was determined to make the most of it.

Leia's thoughts turned to her daughter, Kara, who was playing in the ship's recreation room. The decision to leave her partner had been a difficult one, but it was necessary. The alien antigen had changed him, altered his very essence, and their relationship had become untenable. Lina had to think of Kara's future and well-being.

The NAR Horizon was a Phoenix Class Starship. She was not primarily a Starfleet Vessel. She was more of a cargo vessel. To transport medical supplies, engineering components and limited personal transers. She was a mid range cruiser, that was able to get in quickly and leave just as quick.


The NAR Horizon was hired by Leia to transport her to Starbase 400 along with her daughter. Leia remembered the horrific experience she had last time. Transporting by the standard federation transport vessel.

"Hello Kara, your just in time." Leia said with a warm smile on her face. She watched as her six year old daughter hopped up on her lap and took a look outside of the window. The ship was getting her first look at Starbase 400. This station was bigger than a standard space dock class station.

"It's big momma, bigger than Starbase 126." Kara said with amazement in her eyes. Her child like innocense gazed into the heavens. This gaze brought a smile to Leia's face.

"It sure is." Leia said, hoping this was the new start they desperately needed. Was it really fair she wondered when she "they" needed the break. She was not fooling anyone. It was the break she needed.

She hoped that Kara would understand one day, why she had to leave her father. He was a good man, and in the end it was not his fault. She left because he could not get over what he had done. His guilt weighed to much on her. She felt like a trophy and not a person. His trying to win her back persona was to overwhelming and over bearing. Leia could see that she was starting to take herself down a path she did not want to go. She smiled as she refocused her thoughts on the window and her daughter.

He needed to get his act together. And she felt that he could not do that with her lingering around. She also needed time to heal as well. She set course for familiar territory. Starbase 400 had an opening for a new xo position on the USS Falcon.

As the Horizon approached Starbase 400, Leia couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and nervousness. She knew that this assignment would be challenging, but she was ready for it. Her years of training and experience had prepared her for this moment. She was determined to excel in her new roles and make a name for herself in Starfleet.

Upon their arrival at the Starbase, Leia and Kara were greeted by Colonel Bagwell, the former commanding officer of the USS Falcon. He was a tall, stern-looking man with a kind smile, and he welcomed them warmly. "Commander Dhej, it's a pleasure to have you and your daughter here," he said, extending his hand in friendship.

Leia shook the Colonel's hand firmly. "Thank you, Colonel. I'm honored to be here. And congratulations on your promotion sir." As the scene starts to fade away.

---

Over the next few hours, Leia settled into the station, she was trying to review the starbase's crew to ensure the smooth operation of the station. She was impressed by the dedication and professionalism of the staff and felt that she had made the right choice in coming here.

Kara, too, appeared to be adjusting to her new surroundings. She was about to start school on the starbase. Even though they had barely arrived, Kara quickly made friends some of the children. Leia was relieved to see her daughter happy and thriving in their new home.

Later that night Leia was reviewing the station's strategic operations data, Colonel Bagwell approached her office. "Commander Dhej," he said, "I wanted to commend you on your dedication to your work since your arrival. You've just dived in and got to work."

Leia smiled gratefully. "Thank you, Colonel. I'm just doing my best to acclimate. I want to make a good impression on Captain Rodgers."

The Colonel's expression turned more serious. "I also heard about the difficult situation you left behind. I want you to know that Starfleet is here to support you and Kara in any way we can."

Leia felt a lump in her throat but nodded appreciatively. "Thank you, Colonel. It means a lot."

Leia couldn't help but feel a sense of fulfillment. She had not only found a new purpose in her career but had also given her daughter the chance for a fresh start. Together, they were ready to face the challenges and adventures that awaited them among the stars.

"You will make a good impression with the Captain. You already have with me." Ezekiel said with a warm smile on his face.

"What can you tell me about her?" Leia asked, hoping she was not out of line for asking. She hoped the Colonel would be open to talking about his former first officer.

"Captain Rodgers is very by the book, but she knows how to show compassion when the situation calls for it. She expects 100% of your effort. In return she gives 115% of hers." Ezekiel said with a smile, she was the best first officer he had ever served with. "I believe you will find her suitable to work with."

His response was almost Vulcan like in response. She was surprised by this. He seemed to keep his feelings to himself, which was a strange for a human to do. She appreciated all of the information that he had shared. From what he said, she believed they would get along.

"I appreciate the information." Leia said as the scene starts to fade away.

The End...

 

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