The Promotion of Sanek
RP Scenario played by Sanek and Allahweh (Solida, Allahweh, Jessica, Quinn, Terra), and MJ (Shenn, Nyssa)
It was now just around 12:30 at night, and Allie was sitting at her desk in her quarters on the Adama, with Rixx sleeping near her feet. Davin had gone to bed earlier in the evening as he had matters to attend to early in the morning, and knowing this, Allie was more than willing to stay up and watch their babies so that he could be well-rested the coming morning. After all, she was on her own schedule, so that seemed only fitting.
She drew the silk robe around her figure and reflected on the events of the previous evening. They had held the hearing for Fleet Captain Sanek this past evening, and at first she was unsure of the final outcome. In the end, it had been determined that although there may have been some choices that were made that were less-than-ideal, he acted otherwise in accordance with established protocol and, as such, has not negligent in his duties. After the hearing had reached its conclusion, she had taken the opportunity to speak with the captain about a matter they had talked about for quite some time - his transfer to the Sixteenth.
She had promised to draft him an official letter on the topic, and she was going to also send this on to Star Fleet's Personnel office.
********************
TO: Fleet Captain Sanek
CC: Fleet Admiral Jorel Quinn
FROM: Fleet Admiral Allahweh Felth
RE: Results of Mr. Sanek's Hearing of 14 NOV 2410
STARDATE: 88477.21
ATTACHED IMAGE: :(
Fleet Captain Sanek:
Let me begin this letter by telling you that despite the grave nature of the
hearingitself, it was an honor for me to get to serve on the board of such a
momentous moment in your career. I found that yourself, Ms. Richards, and all
the members of your crew who bore witness to the events of the dayin question
and to your personal character handled the matter with the utmost tact and
discipline. Regardless of what the outcome of the hearing had been, I think
these individuals did a great service to you and also to Star Fleet this
evening. Please keep that in mind and do not forget their friendships to you.
You and I had spoken previously about your plans after the hearing, and I would
like to formally extend to you the opportunity to serve here in the Sixteenth
and fill the vacancy that I have left open for you, that of our Chief of Staff
(G-1) and, as such, our Executive Officer.
As this position requires standing as a Flag Officer, and, likewise, to outrank
the other staff members in our fleet, it will be recommended to Quinn that you
receive a promotion to the rank of full Admiral. You already hold the
authority equivalency of a R. Admiral (Lower-Half), and your service to the
Alpha Centauri Institute, your crew, and to the United Federation of Planets is
indeed indicative of your deserving of such a posting.
This promotion is not fully without any strings attached, however, as indicated
by our discussion this evening. Upon accepting this promotion, and taking your
transfer to our fleet, you will be placed on a probationary period not to
exceed twelve (12) months of standard Earth time. There are a couple reasons
for this, which we discussed earlier, but which I will outline below:
1. Throughout the incident in question, not once did you raise the standing
alert status from Yellow to Red. While it was noted at the hearing that your
standing orders and precautions at Yellow Alert status were above and beyond
the call of duty, you may have neglected to consider one factor: While those
serving with you on your bridge were aware of the gravity of the impending
situation, those below deck may have still been under the assumption that the
situation warranted caution, at best. Although Red Alert would not
automatically trigger until the vessel was hit, as the captain, you had the
discrepancy to issue a Red Alert based on the impending danger. Perhaps more
people could have braced themselves safely had they known this matter due to
a proper alert?
2. Although you kept your vessel well beyond the established parameters for an
anomaly of similar typing (your vessel was at 1,000,000,000 KM rather than the
required 500,000,000 KM), it would stand to reason that an unknown anomaly such
as this would have required even greater caution. You mentioned that you
believe this was the exit point to a wormhole, and that upon collapse it
created a black hole effect. If this was true, logic may have dictated that
this would have been a possibility, and thus greater measures for safety could
have been undertaken.
However, as noted in the hearing, you made some risky decisions during the
actual event that, in the end, likely saved the lives of your crew, and for
that, you should be commended. This has all been noted in your files, and
will, as stated, be forwarded to the Personnel office.
Please do not consider a Probationary period as a personal slight; rather,
think of it as a way of stating that you will be under review, hoping that you
do not allow yourself or your crew to be put in a similarly dangerous situation
again. This is NOT to say that your actions do not warrant valor, but merely
that some risks were taken that we hope will not be soon repeated.
Looking back on this, perhaps one day this will be an example for others;
perhaps new protocols on safe distances and the like will be put in place.
If this is true, we will have yourself and your crew to thank.
I will consider putting yourself and Ensign Lyradis (as requested personally
by you) before the Promotions and Awards Board, as both of your actions
indicate a deserving of an award of some kind. If you wish, at that time, to
submit any supporting documents for the Ensign, you will be free to do so.
Thank you, and congratulations, Captain, and I look forward to serving with
you.
~Allie (Signed)
I, Fleet Captain Sanek, Accept/Decline the terms stated above.
(Indicate your preference)
********************
And now, with that completed, it was time for her to finally get some rest...She could not help but giggle a bit at the frown icon she put there...She wondered if her humor would be lost on the captain, and then, smiling, realized it probably would.
********************
TO: Captain Sanek
CC: Admiral Allahweh Felth
FR: Admiral Syrlia Shenn-McFerran
RE: The Alan Shephard Hearing
SD: 88477.77
Sanek,
I just received word that you've been exonerated of the negligence in the Alan
Shepard case. I just wanted to send you my personal regards and congratulations,
and to let you know Cara and I had been rooting for you from the start. I'm so
glad for you that it's over.
In the time I've known you, and those times during our tenure in the ACI where
we've stood side-by-side welcoming new blood into the terrors of space, I've
always thought you to be "Vulcan beyond Vulcan." Meant to be the utmost
compliment, I have always found you to be dutiful, respectful, diligent, and
the perfect example of a Starfleet officer I have often come to emulate.
I'm very happy for you and hope to congratulate you in person soon.
Very truly yours,
Syrlia
PS - I'm transmitting a copy of this letter to Admiral Felth. If it pleases her,
I'd like for her to keep it in your file as evidence of the support you receive
from fellow officers. I'm sure she agrees with Cara and I that you are... 'One
of The Best'!
********************
********************
TO: Sanek, Captain
FR: Nyssa Lulen-Caedus, Lt.Cmdr.
RE: Congratulations
SD: 88478.22
Sanek,
I was so excited to hear the news of your expungement from the anal arms
of Starfleet law (insert point-eared smiley)!
Congrats, my friend, and please accept my personal and heartfelt well-
wishes on your next endeavor!!!
Speaking of which -- and I'm asking this without the consult of my
husband because, damn it, I'm his wife -- Jacen and I would be honored
to have you and Solida join us for dinner some time aboard the Rogue.
Call it a 'celebration feast'!!!!
You can RSVP to Jacey when you see him. I'm sure he'll ask me what that's
all about. Oh, and don't forget that my office is always open. I have
three of them now, so it's hard to miss me (insert pointy smiley 2).
I'd love to follow up with you and Solida both.
Take care, big guy!
Peace and long life,
Nyssa
PS - I never got the chance to thank you for attending mine and Jacen's
wedding. Despite you having all this hearing stuff on your mind, it was
delightful to see you there. Your 'stern demeanor' always brings a smile
to my face and grounds me to the logic that is my silly life.
********************
Jorel Quinn sat in his office on Deck 2 of Earth Space Dock when his terminal chimed. He looked at it and saw that it was a message from Fleet Admiral Felth. Wasn't she supposed to be on maternity leave or something? He huffed to himself for a moment, and then began to read the message. Then, it hit him. Sunday was the Admiralty Hearing for Fleet Captain Sanek, formerly a Board member in the Alpha Centauri Institute. Felth had served on the board, along with two other admirals. At the time, Quinn had advocated against this, because he knew that she had an association with Mr. Sanek that went back several months. In fact, Sanek was, in no short terms, partly responsible, along with her, for him nearly losing his career and being placed in a Federation prison. That would have been the case, most likely, had a few things not gone in his favor.
Quinn had come to despise the woman, but she apparently had friends in high places - even higher than him.
He chuckled to himself when he saw the frown inserted in the message.
"What the hell is this? Kindergarten?"
All of this was now in the past, and he believed in helping people move on with their lives, regardless of his opinions of them. Thus, he offered a reply:
********************
TO: Fleet Captain Sanek
CC: Fleet Admiral Felth
FROM: Fleet Admiral Quinn
RE: Results of Mr. Sanek's Hearing of 14 NOV 2410
STARDATE: 88479.95
Fleet Captain:
I have reviewed the letter of recommendation and the personnel notes sent to me
by Fleet Admiral Felth, and I will be allowing your transfer and sending along
the documents to the promotion board for your promotion as recommended.
I will advise you, therefore, to be thankful for the outcome of all of this -
apparently you have many friends that recognize your efforts and service to Star
Fleet. Never forget this.
Good luck,
~Jorel Quinn
Fleet Admiral
Chief of Staff (J-1), Star Fleet
********************
Message Attached:
***********************************
*** PERSONNEL ACTION FILE (PAF) ***
TYPE OF ACTION:
Promotion (X)
Demotion ( )
Transfer (X)
Reassignment (X)
Change in MOS ( )
Enlistment ( )
Commission ( )
Disciplinary Action ( )
Leave ( )
Discharge ( )
NAME: Sanek
RANK: Fleet Captain
NEW RANK (If none, mark "N/A"): Admiral
GRADE: O-6 (Special)
NEW GRADE (If none, mark "N/A"): O-10
DATE IN RANK: 16 NOV 2410
FLEET: Alpha Centauri Institute
NEW FLEET (If none, mark "N/A"): Sixteenth Mobile Fleet
POSITION: Director of Recruitment
NEW POSITION: Chief of Staff (G-1), Executive Officer (XO)
DATE OF ACTION: 16 NOV 2410
AUTHORIZED BY: Fleet Admiral Jorel Quinn, Chief of Staff, Star Fleet
DELIVER TO: Personnel Office, Sixteenth Mobile Fleet
CARBON COPY TO: Fleet Admiral Felth, Admiral Sanek
********************
Allahweh was rather surprised to see the speed with which Quinn responded to her letter and request for Mr. Sanek's reassignment and promotion. She had sort of expected for him to sit on it for a while, and perhaps give her some grief. She wondered if he might even question why she thought he deserved a promotion all the way up to the rank of Admiral. Yet, apparently this was not the case.
Since she had yet to go to bed for the evening, she decided to take a seat at her terminal and scribble out a quick, informal note to Mr. Sanek requesting that he meet with her at his earliest convenience:
********************
Sanek,
I am sure by now you have seen the letter that I sent to you and, as well,
that I forwarded to Fleet Admiral Quinn. His reply should have recently
arrived at your desk.
Once you are ready (and feel free to take your time), I would like to speak
with you at your convenience about your new assignment and get you situated
as our Acting Commanding Officer (until January 2411). I am sure that Ms.
Richards will be able to assist you with any additional things you need to
help facilitate this transfer.
Congratulations, Admiral, and live long and prosper!
~Allie (signed)
********************
Sanek entered his assigned quarters on Sol Station, noting the time, and walked to the porthole. Terra floated there, hanging in space like a vast blue marble streaked with white clouds. The thought made him recall an image he'd seen once while researching the planet prior to his Academy days of the planet taken from it's moon's orbit on humanity's first glimpse of their own planet from space. The photo had been dubbed Blue Marble. Reaching space had a profound affect on all peoples who experienced it, and for humanity it had served to finally bond their species together as a whole eventually, once they began to explore the Universe after their advent with warp technology.
He slowly took his gloves off, pulling them off one finger at a time. Folding them together, he gripped them in his right hand. He hadn't worn his dress whites since the wedding of Nyssa and Jacen Caedus. An odd thing really, but traditional, and since Vulcans were a race that considered ancient traditions a deep part of their social lives, it was only logical to accept it.
Turning, he reached down and turned on the console sitting on the desk next to the porthole. He was immediately alerted to the fact that he had messages which hadn't been read. He had turned off notifications on his PADD prior to the hearing earlier this evening, and as such had not been alerted to them as they arrived. He stepped around the desk and saw that he had two from Admiral Allahweh Felth, one from Admiral Quinn, one from Nyssa Caedus, and one from Syrlia Shenn-McFerran.
He elected to read Admiral Felth's message first. Sitting down he selected it and read through it. The first thing he noticed was an odd attachment to the message, some sort of image that showed what appeared to be a face that was frowning. His eyebrow raised for a moment. He failed to understand the significance of such an image to the message at hand, and made a mental note to inquire about it when he met with her next.
The points she covered in her message were concise and clear, and supremely logical. He had, in fact, considered the possibility that he Red Alert status would be partly detrimental to his case. In truth, Red Alert had instantly been engaged the moment the asteroid struck the port warp nacelle... and, in any event, the moment that occurred, there were far more important decisions, and resultant orders, to be given to save the vessel than to ensure the status of Red Alert was engaged. He had had moments only to order Lyradis to engage her vector maneuvers before the vessel fell below the Event Horizon and was crushed by the forces inside.
He briefly thought about those moments. The deafening shudder of the vessel as it was pulled in two different directions, the shouts of terrified crew, the severe damage he bore witness to on the bridge alone... even the horrible lurch as he had disengaged the ship gravitational compensators to cease the power grid drain on the damaged warp core to provide enough power to escape the gravitational field.
Sanek took a moment to briefly, and lightly, meditate on this memory. He fully understood that it could be a defining moment in his existence, and took several minutes to commit the memories to the computer that was his mind for continued analysis at a later time.
When he was completed, he responded as required to the notice Allahweh had sent him, ensuring that Accept was highlighted before selecting the send button.
**************************
TO: FLEET ADMIRAL ALLAHWEH FELTH
CC: FLEET ADMIRAL JOREL QUINN
FM: FLEET CAPTAIN SANEK
RE: RESULTS OF MR. SANEK'S HEARING OF 14 NOV 2410
SD: 88486.4
RMKS: ADMIRAL ALLAHWEH FELTH
MY THANKS FOR YOUR ASSISTANCE WITH THE ADMIRALTY HEARING. AS PER YOUR REQUEST,
I HAVE INDICATED MY ACCEPTANCE OF YOUR OFFER, NOTED BELOW AS REQUIRED. I WILL
REMIT MYSELF TO STATION K-7 AT MY EARLIEST CONVENIENCE FOR REASSIGNMENT AS
REQUIRED. I AM APPRECIATIVE OF YOUR CONSIDERATION REGARDING MY
REQUEST CONCERNING ENSIGN LYRADIS.
FLEET CAPTAIN SANEK SENDS
I, Fleet Captain Sanek, ACCEPT/Decline the terms stated above.
(Indicate your preference)
(Initial message attached)
END MSG
BT
**************************
Completed, he clicked through to the next message, a personal one from Admiral Felth. He read through this quickly, considered his response, and then typed it out.
**************************
Admiral Allahweh Felth:
I have, indeed, perused the message you sent related to the hearing and my re-
assignment. My thanks, once again.
As I noted, I shall transfer my temporary vessel assignment and crew
to Station K-7.Upon arrival, and after initial billeting arrangements have
been satisfactorily completed, I will certainly submit myself to your office
for said discussion. If I am in need of any assistance, I shall notify Master
Chief Richards immediately.
My thanks for your support, and your offer to assist with the 16th Mobile Fleet.
Peace, and Long Life.
~Fleet Captain Sanek
**************************
There was no need to respond to Admiral Quinn's message.
He had not had the opportunity to see Syrlia for some time. The message she had sent was a personal one, and as he read through it he considered it, and previous messages of it's nature he had received from others in the past. Initially, out of the Academy, he had not responded to such messages, as they were mostly emotionally based with little need for a response other than an acknowledgement. However, he had come to understand that non-Vulcans expressed their friendships in this manner, and as he considered Syrlia a friend, a response was logically required.
He did find her comment of "Vulcan beyond Vulcan" somewhat odd. He was, after all, a Vulcan... to suggest that he was beyond a Vulcan was a context in which he was not certain he understood. Certainly he was a Vulcan that was beyond the planet Vulcan. Raising his eyebrow question for a moment, he analyzed that comment briefly before dismissing it, and began to type out his response.
**************************
TO: ADMIRAL SYRLIA SHENN-McFERRAN
CC: ADMIRAL ALLAHWEH FELTH
FR: FLEET CAPTAIN SANEK
RE: THE ALAN SHEPARD HEARING
SD: 88486.4
Admiral Shenn-McFerran -
My thanks for you, and your wife's, well wishes, as well as your regards
and compliments. Additionally, I offer my thanks for your assistance during
my tenure as Director of Recruiting at the Institute.
I trust that sometime soon we will have the opportunity to converse on
said subjects personally, as our duties dictate.
Peace, and Long Life,
Fleet Captain Sanek
**************************
The next, and last message, was from Nyssa Caedus. His contact with Nyssa had been minimal save for the initial yearly counseling session, but he found her prose in her message to be typical of her personality. She again was one he would consider a friend; however, there were times when her exuberance was faintly overbearing to Vulcan social sentimentalities, which was a point Sanek was careful to conceal, as he didn't wish to bruise her emotional state.
He did, however, find her initial statement somewhat strange - especially regarding the pointy eared smiley comment. Raising his eyebrow, he concluded that it must be some form of humor. The remainder of her message touched on personal matters, and as such Sanek spent a brief moment developing a response, and began typing.
**************************
TO: LT CMDR NYSSA LULEN-CAEDUS
FR: FLEET CAPTAIN SANEK
RE: CONGRATULATIONS
SD: 88486.4
Counselor Nyssa -
My thanks for your comments, and your well wishes.
I would be honored to accept an invitation to dine with you and your
husband aboard your vessel. I shall inform Solida as soon as possible
regarding this arrangement. Additionally it was my honor to be invited,
and to attend, your marriage to Admiral Caedus. By all accounts he
is an excellent officer, and an honorable individual.
As indicated earlier I shall contact you regarding the follow up
session previously discussed. My thanks for your time on this personal
matter.
Peace, and Long Life.
Fleet Captain Sanek
**************************
His message responsibilities concluded, he sat back in his chair and, placing his elbows on the arms thereof, held his hands - fingertip to fingertip - in front of his chest as he contemplated the events of the previous twenty-four hours. Change, as was the inevitable conclusion to any circumstance in the Universe, was in motion. It was change that would allow him to pursue his research, while fully being of use to the greater good in a staff position capacity as well. It would also, he admitted, allow him to pursue his attachment to Solida without the daily distractions of command of a Starfleet vessel. To be sure, voyages for research were still a part of his work - however, his new assignment would keep him for lengthy periods of time at headquarters for his new billet.
In any event, it was time to inform Solida of the results of the hearing. He was certain she hadn't been informed as yet, and he did not wish for her emotional state suffer any further than he knew it already was.
Solida had been worried sick about Sanek all evening, unsure of the final outcome of the hearing. She could have possibly asked Admiral Felth, but as she did not know her all that well on a personal level, she knew that would have been HIGHLY inappropriate. Instead, she looked up the personal quarters that Sanek had been assigned for his tenure on Sol, and now made her way down he corridor on the deck he was currently residing in.
In just a moment, she was outside his door, and activated the chime.
As he was preparing to send a message to Solida via her PADD, in the hopes that she had it readily available, his stateroom door chimed. Raising his eyebrow slightly, as it was later than he would have expected visitors normally, he stood behind the desk.
"Enter," he said.
Solida entered the room quietly and looked over at the desk behind which Sanek stood.
"So..." She began, her voice slightly unsure. "What was the outcome of the hearing, Sanek?"
Seeing Solida enter, Sanek raised his eyebrow. As he had just been about to send her a message, her unlooked for visit was fortuitous. He came around the desk and stood before her for a moment, his hands clasped behind his back in his typical pose.
"I have been exonerated of any negligence during the incident," he began emotionlessly. Before she could respond he continued. "I have also been offered a position in the 16th Mobile Fleet as the Executive Officer, under Admiral Allahweh Felth, which I have accepted."
"The Sixteenth Mobile? I had not heard much about them other than what I've read regarding their actions during the Dominion War. I guess I always assumed they were disbanded," she replied in a somewhat lively tone.
"Executive Officer is a step-up from Recruitment Director, and will you be getting a promotion for this, Sanek?"
Solida didn't particularly care about ranks and titles, but she knew that, at least on a very basic level, it was important to Sanek. If nothing else, it was important that his work mean something, and Solida had felt for a long time that his talents were being wasted in the Institute.
"That is correct, Solida," he responded. "I am to be promoted to Admiral, to coincide with the rank and responsibilities of that office." The details as to why that was were largely irrelevant to the point at hand, so Sanek didn't elaborate.
"I trust that this outcome alleviates some emotional duress on your part," he finished.
"Admiral? That's...Wow," She was rather lost for words for a moment, but her mood quickly changed.
"Oh, Sanek! That's wonderful! You've deserved a promotion like that for such a long time, and I'm so sorry you didn't get the recognition you deserved back at the Institute. I know you will make a wonderful Executive Officer."
She quickly embraced him and held him close to her for a moment, allowing him the ability to sense her joy and elation.
"So, what will happen to your ship, your crew? What will we do?"
Sanek returned her embrace, and considered her question.
"In truth, I do not know for certain," he responded. "As the U.S.S. James E. McDonald was essentially assigned to me prior to the hearing, pending only the outcome, it would be logical to assume that it would still retain that assignment. I expect that scenario to fall under the pervue of Admiral Felth." Turning, he moved back to the desk for a moment.
"In truth however," he continued, "as it is a Research Vessel, it would be better utilized by a captain who can make full use of it's capabilities in continued deep space research missions."
"But, don't you feel that YOU are the captain best suited for such a task? Even if you are to serve as the Executive Officer of this new fleet, surely you can still pursue your research interests on the side?"
She smiled at him reassuringly for a moment.
"Besides, doesn't an admiral need a flagship?"
Sanek raised his eyebrow.
"Assignment of any vessel purely for reasons of my rank would be illogical," he said, "and not in keeping with said vessel's specific purpose, which is to undergo lengthy deep space research missions far from Federation space." Quiet for a moment, he looked carefully at Solida.
"Were I to remain assigned to such research," he continued, "then your assumption would be correct; I would be the logical choice based purely on availability. However, as Executive Officer of the 16th Mobile Fleet, my availability for such missions will be restricted. As such, it is only logical that the vessel be reassigned to a captain who is specifically assigned to the role of deep space research. The vessel will not fulfill it's purpose otherwise."
Solida shook her head, smiling. Had she really expected a different answer? Expecting such a thing, she surmised, would be illogical.
"You know that all I wish for is your happiness, Sanek. I hope that a balance can be reached. While your duty would be to this new assignment, I have faith that Fleet Admiral Felth will likely grant your request to be able to continue your research when possible. You are one of the best, if not the best, in this field, and surely your research would do great things for the fleet's notariety and for the betterment of the Federation."
She sighed for a moment, though her gaze remained on him.
"But what do you think will become of me, Sanek? If someone else is to take command of the ship, I would not wish to stay...I only want to be with you."
Sanek looked at Solida for a long moment.
"I have information that suggests the 16th Mobile Fleet requires the services of a Chief Medical Officer," he began. "I have little doubt that, with my recommendation, Admiral Allahweh Felth would assign you to such a position should you inquire."
He had considered this briefly before her arrival, and knew it was a logical choice. However, it had to be one that she made for herself. He did also have one personal comment he wished to suggest.
"In any event, regardless of what vessel I am assigned, I would request you as the ship's Doctor."
Solida leaned quietly against Sanek's desk as she thought about the momentous suggestion he had made. Did she really want to be Chief Medical Officer for a fleet, and thus assigned largely to duties at a Starbase? She wondered if with such an assignment she would miss the excitement of their adventures together.
And then it hit her...Their adventures. Sanek was the main thing in her life now, and she wanted to be where he was. If that meant taking a somewhat sedentary assignment, it was more than worth it to her in the end.
"Chief Medical Officer of an entire fleet...I...I don't know what to say. That's a rather large step up, don't you think? But...If that's what it would take for us to be together, then I am sure it would not be an issue."
"Please do not allow yourself to feel pressured, Solida," Sanek responded. "It is your choice to pursue the position, of course. I do not believe that a scenario of your assignment as Chief Medical Officer to the 16th Mobile Fleet would interfere with a secondary assignment as Ship's doctor aboard a vessel."
He turned and sat in the desk chair, and placed his elbows on the arms of the chair, his hands folded in front of him.
"In any event, I believe the vessel assignment will be left to the Admiral," he continued. "Neither the vessel assignment, nor your decision in regards to Chief Medical Officer, will be detrimental to our continued association."
"I agree. I don't see a problem with such an arrangement. It will simply take some getting used to, though perhaps it will be worth it in the end. I rather think it will."
Solida wasn't sure what else there was to say now. Their lives would soon be changing, certainly for the better, and in more ways than one. Although the changes were, on the surface, more professional than anything else, she knew that these new roles, and their new assignments, would allow them to grow even closer together. While she knew he still had a passion for exploring and studying the unknown, she also knew, deep within his heart, he wanted nothing more than to be with her.
And she felt the same.
It had been a while since Sanek's hearing, and his tentative assignment to the Sixteenth. Although he was already beginning to assume some of his new duties as Executive Officer and Chief of Staff, he still had to append the title pending to his rank, and Allie knew that they soon needed to remedy this.
Things had been hectic for a while after the birth of the twins, but now they were beginning to slow down. The twins were starting to get on a bit more regular of a schedule, and as her and Davin learned to work with it, they began to be able to accomplish more in their professional and personal lives. Davin had, in fact, stepped up in the Institute as the President as Vice-Admiral Jern vacated the position. This, of course, brought new responsibilities to his desk, but Allie thought that this change in leadership would ultimately do that group well in the long run.
Now, thinking of her own fleet, she prepared to draft Sanek a message that read as such:
**************************
TO: Fleet Captain Sanek
CC: FADM J. Quinn
FROM: FADM A. Felth
RE: Promotion of Sanek
STARDATE: 88547.50
Mr. Sanek:
I apologize for the delay in all of this, but I would like to inform you that
we are ready to promote you, officially, to the rank of Admiral. I have just
recently received the finalized paperwork on all of this, which I shall
forward to you here shortly. Your promotion will be effective as of the
"effective date" in the message, although we would like to hold an actual
ceremony for you at a time that you will find most convenient.
I hope that you have made the transition to K7 smoothly, and that you have
had everything you've needed to transition into your new role.
Best regards,
~Allie (signed)
PS: Would you mind seeing to the assignment of Commander Christine April into
our fleet?
**************************
Now, she forwarded him the official documentation regarding his promotion.
********************************************
** Personnel Action Form (PAF) - 24101209 **
MOS Change ( )
Promotion (X)
Demotion ( )
Reassignment ( )
Transfer ( )
Discharge ( )
Other ( )
NAME: Sanek
RANK: Fleet Captain (O-6s)
NEW RANK (If none, mark "N/A"): Admiral (O-10)
EFFECTIVE DATE: 09 DEC 2410
REMARKS: Mr. Sanek is hereby to be promoted to the rank of Admiral, which is
sufficient for his new role and duties within the Sixteenth Mobile Fleet.
AUTHORIZING OFFICER: FADM J. Quinn
DATE OF AUTHORIZATION: 08 DEC 2410
**************************
Sanek and Solida stood in his stateroom at Station K7. The transition to their new assignment had been fairly routine, but the brief respite after their daily duties was appreciated by them both.
Sanek sat for a moment, and suddenly received a communique notice from his console. He checked, and found two messages from Admiral Allahweh Felth. Glancing at Solida for a moment, he punched up the messages and read them both. They were both regarding his new rank and it's official status - which was already passed. As such, he was now no longer pending.
He spent a few moments filling out the paperwork required to assign Commander Christine April to the fleet as she had requested, then sent the paperwork as an attachment to his response to the Admiral.
**************************
TO: ADMIRAL ALLAHWEH FELTH
CC: FADM J. QUINN
FM: ADMIRAL SANEK
RE: PROMOTION OF SANEK
SD: 88555.74
ADMIRAL FELTH:
MY THANKS FOR THE NOTIFICATION OF THE OFFICIAL RECOGNITION OF MY
PROMOTION. AS FOR A CEREMONY SUCH IS NOT REQUIRED UNLESS OF COURSE
YOU SEE FIT AS SUCH.
I HAVE ALSO COMPLETED THE PAPERWORK YOU REQUESTED FOR COMMANDER
CHRISTINE APRIL'S ASSIGNMENT TO THE 16TH MOBILE FLEET. I HAVE
INCLUDED IT AS AN ATTACHMENT AND CARBON COPIED FLEET ADMIRAL
QUINN FOR RECORD KEEPING.
ADMIRAL SANEK SENDS
END MSG
BT
**************************
Message Attachment:
********************************************
** Personnel Action Form (PAF) - 24101221 **
MOS Change ( )
Promotion ( )
Demotion ( )
Reassignment (X)
Transfer ( )
Discharge ( )
Other ( )
NAME: Christine April
RANK: Commander (O-5)
NEW RANK (If none, mark "N/A"): N/A
EFFECTIVE DATE: 03 JAN 2411
REMARKS: Commander Christine April is hereby re-assigned to the
16th Mobile Fleet as requested by Admiral Allahweh Felth. Paperwork
and required regulatory requirements prepared and submitted
by Admiral Sanek.
AUTHORIZING OFFICER: Admiral Allahweh Felth
DATE OF AUTHORIZATION: 12 DEC 2410
**************************
He then looked up at Solida.
"As I am certain you recall, we previously discussed your appointment to Chief Medical Officer of the 16th Mobile Fleet approximately three weeks prior. If the position still interests you, I can forward my request to have you considered for that position at this time," he said. He raised his eyebrow.
"If you believe I would be the most qualified for such a posting, then I would gladly accept your recommendation...Admiral," she said, winking at him.
Sanek raised his eyebrow.
"Doctor, you are certainly the most qualified medical doctor the 16th Mobile Fleet has assigned," he began. "It would be only logical that the position would fall to you. I will send my recommendation to the Admiral immediately."
**************************
TO: ADMIRAL ALLAHWEH FELTH
FM: ADMIRAL SANEK
RE: 16TH MOBILE FLEET CMO
SD: 88556.82
ADMIRAL FELTH:
I AM AT THIS TIME RECOMMENDING COMMANDER SOLIDA T'YRA FOR THE
CURRENTLY OPEN POSITION OF CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER OF THE 16TH
MOBILE FLEET. COMMANDER T'YRA HAS SERVED WITH DISTINCTION AND HAS
PROVEN HER MEDICAL SKILL ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. SHOULD THIS
RECOMMENDATION MEET WITH YOUR APPROVAL I TRUST YOU WILL SUGGEST
A REASSIGNMENT FORM FOR THE DOCTOR.
ADMIRAL SANEK SENDS
END MSG
BT
**************************
**************************
TO: Admiral Sanek
FROM: Allahweh Felth
RE: 16th Mobile Fleet CMO
STARDATE: 88557.18
Admiral:
I am still on maternity leave through January 3 of 2411, and as such you have
full authority to act on my behalf on such a matter as this.
However, I do not see any issue with Dr. T'yra assuming such a posting and,
I would imagine, receiving a promotion, though I would only encourage it if
the doctor desires such an advancement and if you can spare her from full-time
service aboard your ship.
If neither of those is an issue, then I trust this matter into your hands.
Best regards,
~Alalhweh (signed)
**************************
The Admiral's response was actually fairly quick. Sanek had only spoken to Solida for a few moments with unrelated topics when her mail came through and alerted him. Reading it quickly, he then looked up at Solida once again.
"The Admiral has left the matter of your reassignment to me in regard to your posting as Chief Medical Officer of the 16th; provided, of course, that you desire such an appointment," he began. "She also suggests that you be alleviated from full time service aboard my vessel; however, since I myself will no longer be voyaging on lengthy missions, I do not see that as an issue."
He stood, and faced her with his hands clasped behind his back.
"You realize, of course, that such an appointment does come with an advancement in rank due to the responsibilities," he continued. "Thus, I am formally inquiring if you would accept such a position, Doctor."
"A promotion to Captain, I imagine. As I had never expected to captain a vessel, I often thought I'd likely never see such an advancement in rank, and honestly I'd have been quite content with remaining Commander."
Solida smiled at Sanek before continuing.
"Of course, 'Captain Doctor Solida T'yra' has a nice ring to it. I would like, as we talked, to remain on your ship's staff though, Sanek, for those times when you do go out to do research. Other than that, I am more than satisfied with this advancement."
"Such a post requires an advancement due to the increased responsibilities," Sanek responded. "In regard to your posting aboard my vessel, that should not pose any issue. As you recall I served as Director of Recruitment despite lengthy periods of limited availability due to research voyages."
He quickly typed the required data.
**************************
TO: ADMIRAL ALLAHWEH FELTH
CC: FADM J. QUINN
FM: ADMIRAL SANEK
RE: REASSIGNMENT/GRADE INCREASE OF CMDR SOLIDA T'YRA
SD: 88566.47
ADMIRAL FELTH:
I AM FORWARDING THE PAPERWORK PURSUANT TO COMMANDER SOLIDA T'YRA'S
INCREASE IN GRADE AS WELL AS ASSIGNMENT AS THE 16TH MOBILE FLEET'S
CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER. I HAVE CARBON COPIED FLEET ADMIRAL QUINN
AS REQUIRED.
ADMIRAL SANEK SENDS
END MSG
BT
**************************
Message Attachment:
********************************************
** Personnel Action Form (PAF) - 24101234 **
MOS Change ( )
Promotion (X)
Demotion ( )
Reassignment (X)
Transfer ( )
Discharge ( )
Other ( )
NAME: Solida T'yra
RANK: Commander (O-5)
NEW RANK (If none, mark "N/A"): Captain (O-6)
EFFECTIVE DATE: 20 DEC 2410
REMARKS: Commander Solida T'yra is hereby re-assigned as Chief
Medical Officer for the 16th Mobile Fleet. As required by the
position, and due to her exemplary record, she is additionally
hereby granted an increase in grade to Captain. Secondary duties to
remain as Chief Medical Officer to Admral Sanek's vessel as required.
AUTHORIZING OFFICER: Admiral Allahweh Felth
DATE OF AUTHORIZATION: 16 DEC 2410
**************************
**************************
TO: ADM Sanek
FROM: FADM Felth
RE: Reassignment/Grade Increase of CMDR Solida T'yra
STARDATE: 88566.93
Admiral Sanek:
Thank you for taking care of this matter for me. I do appreciate it. It
will be a pleasure to have Dr. T'yra serving our fleet and our staff as the
chief medical officer, so please send her my regards on the matter.
I look forward to working more closely with you after the new year.
Best wishes,
~Allahweh (signed)
**************************
**************************
TO: All staff, Sixteenth Mobile Fleet
CC: Sierra Defense Fleet, Fontana Foundation, Alpha Centauri Institute
FROM: Fleet Admiral Allahweh Felth
RE: The Promotion of Fleet Captain Sanek
DATE: 22 NOV 2410
Dear Allies:
The results of the recent hearing against Fleet Captain Sanek have been met
successfully and the captain is now joining us at the Sixteenth Mobile Fleet
as our Executive Officer and Chief of Staff. As a result of the authority of
his new position, Star Fleet Comman has agreed to allow him to receive a
promotion to the rank of Admiral.
We would like to invite all of you who are able to attend to a promotion
ceremony to be held for Mr. Sanek on Earth Space Dock on the evening of
November 20 at 18:00.
If you will be able to attend, please RSVP.
Best regards,
Allahweh L. B. Felth
Commanding Officer
Sixteenth Mobile Fleet
**************************
As family, friends, and peers began to slowly trickle into the Ceremonial Hall on Earth Spacedock, the nervousness about Jessica could be easily discerned by those who were close to her. As the Fleet Admiral had just given birth about two weeks ago, her part in the ceremony would be 'ceremonial' at best. Allie would give an address and pin the new rank pips on Sanek, but that was about it. Thus, it fell on the chief to handle all related administrative matters and make sure the ceremony went as smoothly as possible.
This wasn't an entirely new thing for the chief; after all, during her tenure at the Institute she had served as the fleet's executive assistant. But the truth of the matter was that she was always nervous about things like this. Having to plan major, important events that represented milestones in someone's life or career always brought with it a sense of urgency.
As she was standing off-stage, talking to some of the station personnel about last minute adjustments to the ceremony schedule, she was surprised to see a familiar face approaching. It was Dr. T'yra.
"Ah, Doctor. It is good to see you here, and on such an important day. Is there something you needed before the ceremony got under way?"
"Actually, Miss Richards, there is. However, I am not sure that what I am asking would be...Standard protocol?"
It was obvious that Solida was nervous, and the chief looked at her inquisitively, as if to encourage her to continue with what she had to say.
"Well, Master Chief, it's just that I was wondering if I might be able to be the one to pin on Captain Sanek's new rank bars?"
The chief thought about what Solida was asking of her. She was right, it wasn't traditional protocol. However, she knew that Sanek held a special place in Solida's heart, and thus, she knew that having this role in such an important, career-defining event would mean the world to her and the captain.
"You are right, doctor, that is not traditional protocol. Normally, either the commanding officer of the fleet or the chief of staff for Star Fleet would be the one to pin on the new rank decoration. However, this past summer at my own promotion, a person very dear to me affixed my new rank to my dress uniform. So, I suppose it would be unfair of me to not afford you the same honor, don't you think?"
She smiled and then turned to walk away.
"Give me a moment and I will speak with Fleet Admiral Felth about this, alright?"
Allie sat quietly in a chair off-stage waiting for the ceremony to get underway. Her mother was still staying with Davin and her aboard the Adama, and thus had graciously agreed to watch the twins for the evening. She admitted to herself that it was nice to be able to get out for a night, though she found herself still rather exhausted, and thus, give the chance, she'd much rather be spending a quiet evening in her quarters, perhaps getting some sleep.
As Richards walked up to her, she nodded and smiled.
"Hello, Jessica, you seem well tonight. I trust everything is in order for the ceremony?"
"Everything seems to be going smoothly so far, Admiral," the chief replied. "However, Dr. T'yra has asked if she might be given the honor of pinning Mr. Sanek's new rank decorations on him tonight. Would you have a problem with that, ma'am?"
"I think that would be just fine. Let her know that we will call her up at the appropriate moment, and she can do the honors."
"Thank you, ma'am. I shall inform her thusly," Richards said, turning to walk back to the doctor...
Waiting in the anteroom as per protocol, Sanek stood with his hands clasped behind him and gazed out the porthole into space. It was only days since the Admiralty Hearing had completed, and it's positive result had allowed him to continue his plans for his future. Strange how the Universe turned however... six months earlier he would never have expected to be where he was now. In only a few moments, he would be promoted to Admiral and officially assume the duties of the Executive Officer of the 16th Mobile Fleet.
He continued to gaze out at the stars, and carefully listened to the Universe... awaiting the moment when he would be called.
After informing Dr. T'yra that she would be allowed to affix Sanek's new rank decorations, she walked into the anteroom where he was waiting.
"Admiral," she began with a wry smile, "We are about to begin the ceremony. Would you please come with me to get in place, sir?"
He turned as Jessica entered the room.
"Certainly," he responded. Glancing one more time out the porthole, he stepped to the door with her and followed her out.
As the two walked out of his waiting area and prepared to go to the area just off-stage where he would wait to receive his award, Jessica thought about how happy Solida would be to be bestowed the honor of pinning on his rank. She knew that Sanek would likely enjoy the experience as well, but his nature was such that he would not show it as a more emotional race would.
"I am proud of you...Admiral," she said with a nod. "I will have to get used to calling you that now. Anyway, you may wait here. After the Fleet Admiral has finished her address, you will be called onstage for the ceremony."
As Terra took her seat in the designated area in the ceremonial chambers, she paused for a moment to look around the room. It had been some time since she had reason to visit Sol. For the past few years, her time had been spent largely at K7 and 39-Sierra, tending to the people of the stations, their associated fleets, and the denizens of the nearby systems. Sol was more of an administrative center, and while the Chaplains' Corps were technically stationed there, her presence on the station was very rarely required of her.
Having been recently transferred back to K7, she felt that it was only proper that she attend the promotion ceremony for the Sixteenth's new executive officer and chief of staff. She had only heard of Mr. Sanek indirectly, somewhat while still on 39-Sierra regarding his work as the Recruitment Director there, but also about his experience out in Delta Volanis, but she had never had a need to speak with him, and he had apparently never had a desire to meet with her. She did not hold this against him, however, as it generally meant he was either not ready for her guidance or that he simply did not need it at this juncture.
She noticed the figure of Jessica Richards, barely visible just off-stage, and she imagined that this must have meant that the ceremony was about to get underway, especially when Ms. Richards nodded in the direction of Fleet Admiral Felth, who was now standing at the podium in her neatly-pressed dress whites.
Watching all the officers interact with each other, Terra thought it was rather ironic where Fate had brought her at this juncture in her life. Certainly, she had nothing to truly complain about - she really wanted for nothing - but there as still a void in her life that she hoped, one day, would be filled.
"Ladies and Gentlemen... Officers... Peers... Comrades... Today were are here to recognize one of Star Fleet's finest officers, Fleet Captain Sanek."
"Mr. Sanek has worked tirelessly in the field of Deep Space Research, pushing the boundaries of the science to new limits, and helping all of us gain a greater understanding of the incredible universe...Or multiverse..." she joked, with a knowing smile. "In which we live."
"In fact, it was Captain Sanek who guided the vessel under his command and the hundreds of souls on board to safety in the face of certain-death at the hands of a gravitational anomaly in the Delta Volanis Cluster. Although the captain would likely protest that such an act was not something worthy of recognition, but was something within the typical duties of a Star Fleet Captain, the truth is that he saved all of his ships crew compliment that day - and that is something that I, at least, think is worthy of recognition."
She turned for a moment, looking off-stage at where he stood, nodding at him and offering him her own applause, which was summarily followed up by applause from all in attendance. She let the moment pass, and then proceeded.
"Mr. Sanek filled a vacancy at the Alpha Centauri Institute when there was a need for a strong leader, despite the fact that serving as a Recruitment Director was far outside his normal abilities. Yet, he did not complain, and he took the role and led the organization to new heights. Thus, when his tenure with the organization came to a close, it only made sense that his career advance forward, with him serving as a senior member of one of the finest fleets currently in service," she said, laughing at her own comments.
"In short, Mr. Sanek has truly strove for excellence throughout his career, and thus, it is with great pleasure that I have the honor today to announce his immediate and final promotion to the rank of Admiral within Star Fleet. Congratulations, Admiral Sanek!"
And with that, Jessica motioned that he should step onto the stage. Little would he know that Solida would soon be out there to join him.
In stoic, Vulcan fashion Sanek stood completely still and emotionless as the ceremony began. He listened impassively to the Admiral's speech. She was, of course, correct in how he felt regarding his actions during the Delta Volanis crisis... he had simply performed his duties as required by Starfleet. However, despite his knowledge of both astrophysics and ship systems, which did allow him to make immediate decisions, it was Lyradis that had guided them to safety on his order. He again ensured that her actions would be recognized.
When he noticed the Master Chief motion his way once the Admiral was finished with her speech, he immediately climbed the steps, and took his place in front of her, as was appropriate according to protocol.
As Sanek slowly made his way across the stage to where she was standing, Allie leaned over for a moment and picked up a small cherry-oak box from one of the lower-shelves of the podium. As she did, she looked to the other side of the stage and nodded at Solida, who was waiting behind the curtain.
As he drew near, she nodded at him and smiled.
"Congratulations, Admiral. You've truly earned this."
She then waited for Solida to reach the spot where they now stood.
As she made her way to the designated spot, she could not help but smile at Sanek in admiration. She knew this was a time for formality and proper protocol, but deep-down inside, she was extremely proud of him.
As she arrived, the Fleet Admiral turned and handed her the box, instructing her to open it. Inside, she found the silver admiral bars associated with Sanek's new rank. She carefully removed them - both sets - from the box, and then closed it quietly.
"Mr. Sanek, would you please turn and face your fellow officers?" Allahweh said, waiting for a moment for the admiral to do so.
"Now, Dr. T'yra, would you please stand on the opposite side of him, opposite of where I now stand?"
Solida did as instructed, handing the fleet admiral one of the rank pins. When indicated, she turned to Sanek and began to affix the rank on his collar, and then whispered to him, "Congratulations, Admiral. I am so very proud of you..."
A gentle tear rolled down her cheek as Allahweh turned to face the crowd, her own pip in place.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, may we present to you, Admiral Sanek!"
The crowd roared with applause.
"Admiral, would you like to address your fellow officers?"
Sanek was somewhat surprised when he saw Solida emerge from behind the curtain and stride across the platform. Involuntarily he raised his eyebrow - this was outside of established protocol of course; however, knowing her as he did, he realized he should not have been surprised at such a change in procedure.
As she pinned the pips onto his uniform and whispered to him, he noticed her tear and lightly felt her pride. For a brief moment he considered the situation, but this was a public place, and now was not the time. He acknowledge her as best he could under the circumstances, and turned to face the attendees as Admiral Felth presented him and asked for an address.
"My thanks to Admiral Felth for the opportunity to serve in this capacity," he began. "As we exist, as does the Federation, to serve the needs of the many, I submit to you that as an Admiral, as well as Executive Officer, of the 16th Mobile Fleet my purpose is to serve the needs of this organization and it's adherence to the Charter of the United Federation of Planets. I am, and will remain, available for your needs as officers of this organization as required."
He concluded his statement with a salute to the officers, and then turned to salute Admiral Felth in turn.
After Allie had returned the salute, she turned back to the podium and briefly addressed the officers present, stating that the ceremony had now reached its conclusion, but for those that were interested, a gathering would be held in fifteen minutes' time in the lounge.
As she made her way off stage, she paused for a moment at where Solida and Sanek were standing.
"Congratulations again, Admiral. Will you be joining us in the Lounge this evening, or did you have other plans?"
Sanek looked at Solida for a moment before he replied.
"Prudence would demand my presence in light of the current ceremonies," he began. "It would not be logical for me to refrain from such a gathering."
* About an hour later...
The lounge on the upper floor of Club 47 was moderately filled, with officers from the Sixteenth, from the crews of other members of the fleet, and with friends and colleagues of Admiral Sanek and others in attendance.
Allie stood nearby Mr. Sanek, sipping on a daiquiri, a drink she had come to enjoy in such social situations, and speaking about minor fleet matters.
"Do you suspect you will need any assistants to perform your chief of staff duties, Admiral? If you do, we can see that such is arranged."
As she spoke, Solida approached, her demeanor obviously rather positive.
"Ah, hello doctor. I trust you are enjoying the gathering?"
She then looked over at Sanek.
"Should I give you two a few moments alone, perhaps?"
Sanek had intermingled as much as was possible throughout the past hour. There were several discussions that had begun, but most of them had not lasted long as many of the officers had little direct contact with a Vulcan. As the subtleties of humor were lost on him, he of course did not acknowledge such comments.
He found himself eventually standing next to Admiral Felth to the side of the gathering, and discussing fleet related issues. He was about to respond to her query when Solida approached. Acknowledging the doctor for a moment, he answered the Admiral.
"That is not necessary, Admiral," he began. "With the assistance provided by Master Chief Richards, I have all that I require."
He sipped from his glass of water for a moment before he decided to respond to the Admiral's more personal query.
"That is a suggestion I will leave to Doctor T'yra," he stated as he looked at her carefully.
Allie looked closely at Solida for a moment, and could sense the desire Solida had to enjoy a few quiet moments with Sanek. Thus, she looked at Sanek, then Solida, and nodded at them before excusing herself under the pretense of getting something further to drink.
Solida approached quietly, and allowed herself a subtle smile.
"So...Admiral...You are looking rather dapper this evening," she said with a wink.
Sanek raised his eyebrow.
"I do not believe I am familiar with the term, dapper," he responded. "However; I believe the change in procedure during the ceremony this evening was at your request?"
"Suave, sophisticated, and good looking?"
She shook her head.
"Of course, I spoke with Ms. Richards and the admiral prior to the ceremony to ask if I could be there to help pin the new rank on you. While it was certainly not standard procedure, Mrs. Felth was very accommodating."
Sanek wasn't certain how to respond to her comment regarding the term dapper. He spend a moment analyzing the scenario and then decided a simple response would be appropriate, mostly for her benefit.
"Then I give my thanks," he stated.
Her answer to the query regarding the ceremony was more or less what he expected. Despite the crowd around them, even though they were off to the side somewhat, he looked at her closely for a moment.
"I must admit your manipulation of the proceedings was a gesture I do... appreciate," he said quietly.
"Appreciate...?"
That wasn't a word she heard very often.
"Do elaborate, Admiral..." she replied, playfully.
He regarded her for a moment. Her continued use of the address of Admiral was, of course, correct now that the promotion ceremony had completed... however, he suddenly understood that she meant it in a different way. Which, of course, he should have expected. Furthermore, the public setting was one in which he would normally not discuss such personal matters with her... but he knew her well enough to know she would not let the subject ebb until she was satisfied with his response.
"I merely suggest your substitution had the effect of causing the ceremony to mean more," he began quietly, "on a... personal level." The word was awkward even as he said it. Such admissions of a personal nature were not typical of Vulcan communication.
He lifted his glass and took a drink of water.
"Then my efforts were successful, and I am glad," she said, smiling at him.
"I had merely wanted to share such an important moment in your career...In our lives...With you, and I hope that was not overly-selfish of me."
He raised his eyebrow.
"My observations of you have shown that selfish behavior is not in your character," he stated. "As such, I do not believe that to be the case."
Solida shrugged and smiled.
"Well, in any event it was a very nice ceremony, and I am so very proud of you. Now...I just have to ask what your first official duty as Admiral will be?"
"That would depend upon what duty requires the most immediate attention," he responded. "I have already been alerted by Chief Richards that some personnel issues require being examined."
He took another drink.
Solida shook her head and couldn't contain her laughter. She knew Sanek wouldn't quite gather what she was thinking, and in some ways she had what might be defined as a 'dirty mind,' but a part of her had hoped he would have picked up on her little innuendo.
"Well, that's not quite what I was thinking, you know," she teased with a wink.
Sanek looked at her for a moment, and it dawned on him what she was suggesting. His eyebrow shot up.
"Indeed," he said. "I must then apologize for my misunderstanding of your query."
Such discussion was rather private for so public a setting, and Sanek was uncertain how to proceed, given that he knew Solida could be rather brazen at times. He decided to wait to see what her next comment would be.
Solida leaned in and whispered to him.
"What I had in mind wouldn't quite be suitable for such a location...Perhaps later, though," she said with a wink.
* AN HOUR LATER...
As the lounge slowly began to empty, Solida looked up at the man of honor and smiled at him. The Fleet Admiral and Master Chief had once more come by and expressed their sentiments and well-wishes before departing for the evening, and now it was only him, Solida, and a few other officers that the did not know very well.
"Well, Admiral, do you think it would be suitable for us to depart before it gets too much later? We don't want you to be too tired to perform your official duties, do we?"
The remainder of the evening was fairly uneventful, with people, most of whom Sanek had yet to meet personally, congratulating him and attempting to engage him in the semblance of smalltalk. Many of them came away from the attempt perplexed - typically Vulcan, Sanek simply assumed that a query was meant in the manner in which it was stated... and the suggested jokes and other innuendo was lost on him entirely for the most part. He also found it somewhat uncomfortable that most of them all wished to shake his hand. Normally he would simply refrain, but in an effort to ensure that no emotional imbalance occurred, he resigned himself to the practice as needed for the evening.
As the Admiral and Chief both left after an hour or so, Sanek finished his glass of water and set it on a nearby table. He looked at Solida as she made her comment, and stood facing her. He assumed, due to her earlier... innuendo... that her comment contained a more... suggestive meaning... as before.
"Indeed, it is rather late," he responded. "I find that I do wish to retire for the evening." He began to turn slightly, still looking at Solida. "Perhaps you would like to accompany me?" he queried quietly.