Dinner Party: The Maiden Voyage

Posted on 07 Mar 2026 @ 10:55pm by Lieutenant Commander Leland Hawksley & Lieutenant JG Todd Hewitt & 1st Lieutenant Gavin Ross Dr. & 1st Lieutenant Gavin II ROSS II Doctor & Captain Jasmine Somers FCapt & Lieutenant Commander Remington Dodd & Lieutenant Thex sh'Zoarhi & Lieutenant Lamia ‘Mia’ Kildare & Lieutenant Paul Winchester & Lieutenant Margeurite "Maggie" LeFebvre & Lieutenant JG Faith Benson & Chief Warrant Officer Glenn Stone Mr & Staff Sergeant Lilliana Hawksley

6,101 words; about a 31 minute read

Mission: S04 Episode 02 The Hackers Backdoor (Incidentals)
Location: The Hawksley's
Timeline: Current

[ON]

Leland Hawksley stepped back from the compact but well-equipped kitchen alcove, wiping his hands on a towel before tossing it over his shoulder with a satisfied grin. The aroma of perfectly seared Aldebaran spiced rack of lamb mingled with the lighter scents of Vulcan plomeek broth and Andorian root vegetable crisps—dishes carefully chosen to suit every palate aboard.

He surveyed the spacious quarters: soft amber lighting, gentle strains of classic Bajoran flute and Earth jazz fusion drifting from the sound system, and the long dining table already laden with appetisers and colourful synthahol cocktails glowing in crystal glassware beside bottles of genuine Saurian brandy and Kanar for those who preferred the real thing.

Lilliana, radiant in a deep emerald dress that complemented her eyes, arranged the final platter of fresh fruit and Terran cheeses. Leland crossed to her, slipping an arm around her waist and pressing a quick kiss to her temple.

“Everything looks perfect, love,” he murmured. “The new Tomcat’s officially underway, and tonight we celebrate with the people who make her fly.”

He tapped the wall panel to dim the kitchen lights and brighten the living area, then activated the door chime alert for arriving guests.

Straightening his dress uniform jacket, Leland raised his voice just enough to carry through the quarters. “Dinner’s ready whenever everyone is—come in, mingle, grab a drink. Tonight’s for us. Welcome aboard the maiden voyage, friends.”

He lifted a glass of sparkling synthahol in quiet salute toward the door, waiting for the first chime.

Which came soon. Stepping through the door was the ship's blue engineer, looking amazing in her formal uniform. A smile as she saw Leland. "Hello, boss, love what you've done with the place."

Leland’s grin widened as he crossed the room to greet her, gesturing warmly toward the table of drinks and appetisers.

“Thank you, Thex. It means a lot coming from someone who can make a warp core sing. You look fantastic, by the way. Grab whatever you like; the Andorian crisps are delicious tonight.”

"By the way... When is our Favourite Doctor arriving Thex?" Hawksley had playfully turned back and narrowed his eyes at Thex and then back at Lilli. "You remember Lilli. This is Thex. She is my 2XO in Engineering. I talk about her literally all the time. In anger. Pure anger." He suddenly shorts a deep, angry look at Thex, before breaking it suddenly. "I am kidding again!!! Chill, guys, have a drink." Leland laughed and answered the door chime.

Lilli couldn’t help but grin at Leland’s enthusiasm. “It’s nice to see you again, Thex.”

" It's nice to see you as well, Lilli. " Replied the Andorian with a warm smile. " As for Ross, he said he'd be here as soon as possible; he had a patient to see to."

Then the next person through the door was the Captain, looking uncomfortable in her fleet dress uniform. "Nice deco, Commander, you are to be commended," the Captain said.

"Chris sends his apologies as he is unable to make it," Somers added.

Leland inclined his head respectfully, his tone warm but appropriately formal. “Captain Somers, thank you — we’re honoured to have you here. The place feels complete now.” He paused, a flicker of genuine sympathy crossing his features. “I’m sorry Chris couldn’t make it; please pass along our best and tell him we’ll save him a plate. Can I get you something to drink, ma’am? The Saurian brandy is the real thing.”

Jasmine nodded and said, "Some of that Saurian Brandy you mentioned," in response.

Leland Hawksley had crossed the compact quarters to the drinks table. He poured a measure of brandy. The Captain’s favourite choice into a crystal tumbler, then returned and offered it to her with a warm smile.

“Here you are, Captain,” he said. “The good stuff. Saved it for tonight.”

He settled beside Lilliana, turning back to Jasmine Somers, he added softly, “Glad you could make the time, Jasmine. These quiet evenings are rare.”

"Quiet! You got a party here, Leland! Thank you for the Brandy," she said with a smile.

Paul entered alone after Serena had left for Starbase 51, and he felt ashamed that he had to resort to asking T'legh to pressure his wife into going. What she had yelled at him, he did not feel like attending this party. But he had come as the Head of the Air Group and a senior member of the Captain's team.

"Winchester, Paul." Leland stood up from the Sofa as the new arrival joined. "It is good to have you here, Paul. We're glad you could make it! What drink can I get for you?" Leland emphasised drinking. He enjoyed being relaxed with his crewmates; it was an unwinding of usual high-tension duty. He tended to share cigarettes with the doctor and whiskey and beer when hosting, or on vacation on the holodeck. He hadn't had a vacation in forever, save for a shore leave. He couldn't wait for that intermission cigarette.

Paul replied, "I was in two minds about coming" Looking out of the window, he continued, "Now that Serina is back on the Starbase, it is so quiet in the quarters now." He finished, " But it was for the best, and I hope she sees that. and I'll take that beer"

Leland smiled. When Paul had come around and had decided to come out of his quarters and be social. “Of course. And you're always welcome here, Paul, at the Hawksleys whenever if you need company.” Leland then reached out and got two beers from the icebox on the counter. He gave a cold tall one to Paul. And Leland raised his as he cracked open his own tab and sat down, taking a drink himself.

The door chimed again and slid open to reveal Commander Dodd arriving with a bottle of Romulan Ale that he had been storing for just such an occasion. He presented it to the Hawksleys. "Well, this is for you to partake in as you wish; it is from my special reserve."

Leland’s eyebrows shot up in delighted surprise as he accepted the bottle with both hands, turning it carefully to admire the label. “Dodd, you absolute legend — genuine Romulan Ale? This is going straight to the centre of the table for a proper toast later.” He clasped Dodd’s forearm briefly in a firm, appreciative grip. “Thank you. Seriously. Come in, get a drink — you’ve earned it tonight.” He glanced toward Lilliana with a conspiratorial smile, already planning the moment they’d open it.

"Well, I will never turn down Romulan Ale, laddie." Remington then made his way to the beverages.

Leland walked with Dodd to the drinks, as he turned back to Somers, Thex, Lilli, and Paul. "Ladies, Gentlemen. Can I get refreshers?" Hawksley thought he'd take a list while he was at the drink station. He was a good drink mixologist; he had learned in his spare time, bartending on a holodeck program.

Looking up "no thank you, Leland, I am good with my Brandy, thank you", Jasmine responded with a smile.

"I'll have an Orion Starbursts if you know how to make it., Thex said with a grin.

"For you, Thex, of course, I do. That was..." Leland paused to think... "I believe chapter 34. Exotic, Exoticals. Yup."

"Dodd. This is so much fun. Like old times, Bro." He bumps his large shoulder up against that of Dodd's, in a friendly show of brothers of other mothers. "Leland began to fill in the new requests for drinks from the guests, and Wife Hawksley had called.

Maggie pulled Todd down the hallway. She was NEVER one to miss a party, and now? They had news to share, anyway. She was dressed to the hilt, as she usually was, in a black cocktail dress with a pink ruffle, pink and black floral high-heeled shoes, jewellery, her signature red lipstick, but this time? Her diamond caught the light in the corridors as she held onto Todd's hand. "We can't be late, I have a reputation to maintain!" She laughed at herself, but then pressed the chime.

As LeFebvre arrived with a deer caught in the headlights, Hewitt was overdressed as usual when most were in dress uniform, standing next to Hawksley as he handed her the Brandy.

"Well, Leland, it seems Raider three likes to go that extra parsec and make a statement", she said with amusement.

Leland laughed at Maggie's statement. "Raider Three takes three times as much to get dressed, it seems." He joked. "But I have to say you clean up well." He was pleasant. Maggie was important to Todd, and... Leland knew this more than anybody, as Todd always talked and talked and talked in Engineering. For an El Aurian, he 'sure TALKS.' Leland reminisced. Todd was a good engineer and friend.

Maggie laughed. "Thanks," she said. "And thanks for the invite," she added. "It's nice to meet some of Todd's friends officially," she said. "And yes, we pilots take a while to get dressed, but it's for safety," she said, making a face. She was fine with just her helmet and flight suit, but these damned rules!

"Todd is a lucky guy."

"I am never lucky. What are you tal..." Todd furrowed at Leland before he honed in on the comment.

"I am very lucky." He winked at Maggie, and they both went together to mingle and gently flash Maggie's new Engagement Ring.

PRIOR...

... Walking down the hall. “You think I’m overdressed?!” Hewitt scoffed back at Maggie playfully. He was wearing khaki slacks, nice white fresh sneakers, and his usual grey long-sleeve sweatshirt, along with a chunky silver wristwatch. “I’m not going to my High School Prom, where are you headed?” Todd barked in pure joke. Todd loved joking around with Maggie; she was his new life, and he loved it.

"A party with some guy I know," she said, lightly.

He smiled and stole a kiss as Maggie chimed the door and then squeezed her hand in his as the doorway opened. He was proud to have Maggie as his new Wife, welcoming a family with her in time, he wished deeply.

“Chief!” Todd grunted as he walked to Leland. The two engineers grinned. They lock into a firm handshake—Todd pressing his thumb twice on Leland’s hand as a subtle signal—thumbs hooking upward. Palms slide flat together, fingers briefly interlacing before a synchronised 180-degree wrist twist.

They pull apart into fists for a knuckle bump, then a pinky-side tap, stack vertically and pound once like a gavel, exploding apart with a quiet “boom.” Double snaps ring out, Leland waves his palm over Todd’s in a mock magic pass—Todd mirrors it back—then they re-grip, pull into a quick one-armed bro hug with two back pats, and separate with mutual finger guns to the chest. Ten seconds flat, seamless and exclusive, they shoulder-bump and head to the bar, ritual complete.

“See my Lady,” Todd grunted in pride.

“Welcome, Maggie. You look wonderful.” Hawksley was surprised. Outside of the Fighter Cockpit, Maggie cleaned up well.

"Thanks!" She said and stepped inside.

"Please come in, sit, and drink. Mingle. Lots to eat." There was plenty of comfortable seating, light music, relaxing lighting, and visuals of the new Tomcat on screens.

Todd turned to Maggie. "What do you want to drink?" He asked, you can take a seat if you like.

"Oh! White wine," she said. "I'll find us a spot," she said.

Hewitt had nodded back to Maggie with a comfortable nod. Taking the chilled bottle of white wine, the dripping condensation running down the glass, the golden white, chilled inside the wine of the grapes. Pouring into a nice, chilled wine glass, Todd had helped himself to a can of chilled draft. Leland ensured an assortment of brands and countless other Federation and Alien versions of Alcohol or exotic drinks to entertain at a get-together.

Hewitt then left the bar as he chuckled. “See you around, Chief. I won't be far. Anything you need, just give a holla!” Hewitt eyed Maggie and made his way over, taking a seat beside her. He then gave her the drink he had brought over.

Leland saluted as he grinned back. “Relax. Enjoy yourself, Hewitt, LeFebvre.”

"Thanks," Maggie replied, giving him a dazzling smile.

Looking sharp in his clothing, Glenn is a tall, athletic, well-built man with broad shoulders and a lean, muscular frame. He has light skin, short, dark brown hair with volume on top, and a neatly trimmed beard, giving him a rugged yet polished look. His expression is serious, calm, and focused, his gaze slightly to the side rather than straight at the viewer.

He is dressed entirely in black, wearing a fitted, button-down long-sleeve shirt with the sleeves rolled to his forearms, tailored slim trousers, and polished black dress shoes with black socks. A black woven belt with a metallic buckle cinches his waist, and he wears a simple black wristwatch on his left wrist. One hand rests casually in his pocket while the other hangs naturally at his side, giving him a confident, composed posture.

With a bottle of Saurian Brandy, Stone felt awkward about this party he was going to. Not that he hasn't been to parties. Not many formal ones in his time in Starfleet; he usually avoided them. On a ship that was harder to do, people would not notice you were not there. And being a part of the command team made it even harder.

He took a deep breath and let it out slowly as he stood in front of the door of Hawksley's quarters. Stone stepped closer to the door and touched the chime. It rang with the familiar ding. There was a muffled voice, and the door opened. He saw that personnel were already there; the Captain and the XO were there, all ready. He had wondered if he would be there before them. Better late than never, he thought as he stepped into Hawksley's quarters. He presented the Saurian Brandy and smiled. The Brandy was tough to get, and it was out of his stash of genuine alcohol.

"Thank you for hosting this party, everything looks great," said Stone, glancing around.

Leland Hawksley turned from his conversation with the Captain, his face lighting up with a broad, genuine grin as he spotted Stone at the threshold, the bottle of Saurian Brandy gleaming in the man's hands. He strode forward with easy confidence, the spacious family quarters alive with soft music, the aroma of replicated hors d'oeuvres, and clusters of crew members chatting on the ample seating arranged around the room—Lilliana laughing with a group near the viewport. "Stone! Right on time, my friend—come on in," Hawksley said warmly, accepting the bottle with an appreciative nod and a low whistle.

"Saurian Brandy, and the real stuff? You're spoiling us. Thank you, Sir. This'll go along with the drinks to share! Grab a glass, help yourself to the spread; we're celebrating the Tomcat finally being ours." He genuinely shook Stone's hand. It was nice to meet the officer officially off duty. Not everyone had to drink, nor did they want to. It was strictly for ceremonial and light fare.

"You are welcome, Hawksley. I think it is great that you have hosted this for the officers. He looked around. And the crew, and their families. I look forward to getting to know your family and the people here," Stone said with a polite smile.

"I am sure you will ." Leland paused to see the refilling of another hors d'oeuvre tray, sending the levitating serving board on its merry way.

Opening a drink of Saurian Brandy, he filled a generous glass full to Stone. "Cheers, my Friend!" Leland raised his cold can of beer and cheered Stone.

Lamia arrived outside the door of Leland’s quarters. Chris had insisted she go along and enjoy the evening, knowing how tired she was looking after their newborn son. He’d insisted the break would do her good while he bonded with his son. Pressing the chime, she waited to be let in, smiling as she greeted Lilli.

“Thanks for the party invitation, Chris insisted I take a few hours off.”

Sensing Lamia arriving, Dodd made his way towards her. He waited to the side after she was done with the host. "Glad to see you, and again Congratulations on the new addition. I know you are exhausted, but it is good for you to be with your peers for a bit. Also, happy to help out if you need me when I am not on duty."

Lamia smiled warmly. “Thank you, that's very much appreciated. I had no idea how tiring having a newborn could be. If I weren’t here now, I’d be taking a well-earned nap.”

"Well, I know you are exhausted both mentally and physically. And if you need to take a break sometime, and I am free, Uncle Remy would be happy to babysit the li'l one. It is the least I could do for a cherished friend." Remy replied as he would still do anything to help Lamia.

“Thank you Remy” Lamia smiled warmly. “I appreciate that, and I will definitely take you up on it!”

"You are still a valued part of my life and I want you to know I support you and Chris along with the new little one regardless." Dodd replied. "Now enjoy yourself. " Dodd then hugged his closed friend and then moved on to mingle with more of the guests.

Ross then entered the room. Dressed down with a pair of Dockers, a pair of jeans, and a dark zipper-up hoodie. He preened his hair.

Letting himself in, as the get-together had started. Ross greeted Leland. “Chief. I thank you for having me. I brought a bottle of Canadian Club. It’s whisky.” He set the black glass tall bottle down along with the rest.

Noticing Thex across from the room, Gavin was drawn like a magnet. He lent his attention for the moment to the host.
“She’s been waiting for you, Chief.” Leland grinned back at Ross.

“I don’t think you're going to let this patient go without the… level of care she needs?” Leland poked. He couldn’t help it.

Ross turned, as he was surprised at the comment and the joke.

He broke into laughter as well. “I can’t believe you said that. Yes. Yes. She is getting plenty of attention, Hawksley.” He laughed. And poured some of his drink into the glass.

Hawksley walked along with his drinks on the stabiliser anti-gravity serving tray; he was assured the drinks wouldn’t drop or shake. It was a never-before prototype for federation crew quarters that Hawksley was testing out.

“Tray Program Leland Serve Mode,” Hawk ordered the serving tray, as it then went around to Somers, Thex, and Paul.

“Trays 2, 3, 4, 5…” He ordered the room's main computer.

“Deliveries attend, guests, room ratio active.” Leland then looked at his PADD and then set it aside on one of the tables. The party food and now drinks were being delivered and ordered, and then mixed by Leland at the drinks table. More food would be replicated for the trays as needed or liked.

Stone made sure he had a drink in his hand and made his way over to Dodd. "Nice party we have here, Sir. Ship life is not too bad," commented Stone to the XO. Waiting to see what comes up next.

"Well, Chief, you may wish you did not just say that out loud. Lately, trouble seems to react to that statement." Dodd stated as he lifted his drink to Stone. "Glad you are enjoying this ship life. The refit seems so modern, yet the ol' girl still feels like home to me."

The warrant officer just smiled at the XO's comment. Stone took a sip of his drink, "Wow, this stuff is good. had to kill a few people, but it was worth it." Stone said his tone made it hard to tell whether he was telling the truth or joking. The feeling he gives off in the comment could be true, or something else might be hidden.

"How are you boys, Dodd, Stone, doing? It's good to be talking to you, Stone. We rarely have enough time to just shoot the shit and talk..." Leland relaxed with his beer in his hand, glancing at the others.

"Is the beer good enough? Did I calibrate the Nutri-Stal4 aerators enough?" Hawksley asked the officers about how good the beer was. He was a connoisseur himself over such things as whiskey and gin, and the harder stuff, but he wouldn't turn it down.

"Leland, the beer is a nice touch, but I think a good amaretto with some cherry sours could be a better tasting concoction," Dodd stated in response. "However, the palate of your beer makes me think of an old Earth flavor called Miller Genuine Draft from the latter part of the twentieth century. That was a great Earth beer."

Stone smiled. "I personally like my beer stronger than that. I brought some Saurian Brandy. It is good, but hard to find. As for a beer, maybe a logger type is what I would drink," commented Stone.

"Amaretto. Now there is a name I have not heard in a while." Leland pointed at Dodd. "Good call." He then regarded Stone as well. His comment was interesting. "Yes. I have had Miller. A very good beer. Nice bite." He nodded to Stone.

With Benson shoving the doors open to the party. She stopped a moment to adjust her dress, particularly in the bust area. As she stepped in, her skirt rode up just a little bit on her thighs. Instead of scooting the shirt down, she left it to 'ride.'

Stone's eyes locked on her. "OK, Wow," he said out loud. "He was sure she was an angel who just walked, he was thinking. Faith, Benson, he was thinking as he recuined her. "Just wow," he commented again. He started to walk away from the XO.

Maggie watched Stone with mirth. Men. Predictable. If she weren't with Todd, she definitely would be kissing Benson tonight. Which reminded her of the wine they'd brought. She tapped Todd's shoulder. "Did you give Hawksley the wine?" She asked him.

“Shit.” Todd scoffed. He looked to the corner of where he had entered the quarters, near the doorway. “Just one moment.” He got up and then walked over to where Leland was busy with others.

Hewitt, respectfully waiting for a drop in conversation, then pops the bottle and fills up glasses near the table of drinks and spirits.

“You're having a glass, Leland. So is my Lady, the LeFebvre and then a tray over to Thex, Winchester, Ross.

“Todd. Did Maggie just tell you that your bottle was sitting by the doorway for a little while?” Leland eyed the doorway and then the bottle in Todd’s hand. Todd gruffed and ran a hand through his long, 100-year-old El Aurian hair. “At least it's not a verteron particle generator that was left outside the hallway of the utility corridor. It’s a bottle of wine, Leland.”

Both play gruff. “Fine. A Verteron particle generator Vs. A bottle of wine remains left unattended. There is a comparison there…” Leland nodded in joviality.

Pouring the bottle, he placed the drinks in tall wine glasses, of white and red Maria Christina, both back in the seated area. Todd was sitting with Thex, Ross, Somers, Winchester, Lefebvre…

Todd presented the grouping with tall fluted glasses of red and white wine. "This is a classic Earth Blend called Maria Christina. It is a blend of choice wines from the year 2025. It is an LCBO Canadian VQA Blend of favourites for patrons from that era.

"Sweet. Uplifting. Dry Hints. Apple, Peace notes." Todd held the wine glass and then took a drink after he held up his glass to cheer the others. "Cheers!"

"Thanks, babe," Maggie said, taking a glass. She raised it and clinked it to Todd's. "Cheers," she said, taking a sip.

*Raises her glass* "Cheers", the Captain said.

*Raises her glass as well* “Cheers” Lamia responded.

Leland gently approached Lilli, offering a warm smile as he joined her on the couch, sitting nearby. “You know what? What would you like to drink, Lilli?” he asked softly, his tone filled with concern and kindness.

“Actually I think I might” Lilli smiled warmly at her husband.

“I have some wonderfully chilled apple juice. Guava Juice, Pureed Peaches with Soda water.” Hawksley remembered some of the things in the replicator menu database that pertained to pregnant mothers, oddly, having had to fix some units to implement the menu changes.

Faith passed by the conversation that Thex was having. Just giving a glance before settling to lean against one of the empty tables near the bar.

" Thanks," Thex said as she took the two glasses of her starburst before tipping the smaller one into the larger one to start the reaction. Taking a sip, she smiled, " Truly excelent Leland."

Gavin and Leland nodded with a smile. "Hell of a party here..."

"I heard you practice the art of skilled swording." He replied to Thex.

" Blade dancing." Thex corrected with a warm smile. " I'm one of the few non-Orions who dance it, rated at expert level. "

Ross chuckled, leaning back against the seat next to Thex comfortably as he wrapped his right forearm around the sofa. Confident, posed and took a sip of his drink, wetting his throat.

“You have no idea how much danger can become… Such a pleasure!” He gruffed, shaking his head with a wink at Thex.

“Those swords come in… handy.”

"What can I say, I appreciate a playmate with such skilled hands," Thex said with a wink and a smile of her very own, darting across her blue face.

Ross leaned in a fraction closer, letting his gaze linger on hers as a slow, appreciative grin spread across his face. "Careful, Thex—keep talking like that, and I might start thinking you enjoy losing to me on purpose," he teased, voice low and warm, his hand brushing lightly against hers in a deliberate, lingering touch. He then took a slow drink of his glass of wine and then shared it with Thex.

Taking a sip from Ross's wine, Thex swallowed before giving her playmate a loving smile, a wink and a gentle squeeze of the hand.

It was not hard to miss the large man walking towards Faith. Glenn Stone's eyes were definitely evaluating the situation. He glanced at the room, and he seemed to be looking for anyone else walking towards Faith. Mostly glancing at the men, seeing if they were moving.

Glenn dressed entirely in black, wearing a fitted, button-down long-sleeve shirt with the sleeves rolled to his forearms, tailored slim trousers, and polished black dress shoes with black socks. A black woven belt with a metallic buckle cinches his waist, and he wears a simple black wristwatch on his left wrist. His hands hang naturally at his side, giving him a confident, composed posture.

He waited for the conversation to be over and smiled at Faith. "I did not know they invited beautiful angels to this party," he commented, "Or is it temptation that has come in such a beautiful package?" Stone said with a nice smile but a confident tone.

Blade dancing. She liked that. That was something she could get down on, if they could get the terminology right. Faith turned her attention to Glenn. "You certainly are laying it on thick, aren't you?" She could appreciate the confidence, however. "And just what are you looking for in this angel?" Glancing down a moment, "Lack of pants."

Looking at himself, then back into Faith's eyes. "As for laying it on thick, I think you deserve the attention," replied Glenn with a mischievous smile. He was not sure how long he could keep going. He was out of his element. He normally did not act like this with other people. But he would give a confident, composed posture.

"Most people do, but it's usually for my looks." Faith looked down at what she was wearing and then back up to Glenn. "Tell me what you can pick out about me. Not from just what I'm wearing, but also what I am wearing. My demeanor. How I carry myself, give your forward composure at the moment." She stood up and slipped her arms behind her back. Clasping her hands just at the cusps of her rear. Making sure to push her chest out, just enough.

He stared for a moment, then looked down, realising what he was staring at as Faith changed her posture. He looked back up, making sure to make eye contact.

"Most of the day we see one another in uniform, not so much Ah.. dressed for a party that can show a side of a person. This shows a side I don't think I have seen before. Not that you are not attractive in a uniform, but I guess a state of mind in and out of uniform," he said, thinking almost but not quite stumbling over his words.

" Your dress... ah... mm... makes your curves show more and just makes you look gorgeous in a way I can miss."

"That was particularly the point this time. I am still a woman." Faith smiled brightly at Glenn.

Leland paused and called out at the top of his Chief Call to his fellow Engineers. It was loud, brash, and attention commanding to its military precision to surgically carve out your Officer's attentions...

Leland paused, took a big, deep drink of his lager, and then set it aside as he looked at his Engineering PADD. "Ok..." He paused, breathing in, and glancing at his Wife Lilli, who was seated near in the room, he smiled at her way. He cleared his throat as Leland often did, swallowed his Adam's apple hard, and then spoke with reverberating chords!

"Hey! Everyone, grab a seat. Find a spot..." He waited for everyone to get comfortable for a very, very short statement, nothing serious.

"Welcome to the Hawksleys' little corner of the Tomcat. I know it’s just a simple get-together, nothing fancy, but the heart behind it is big, and the company? The best in the fleet."

Leland breathed outward, his heart feeling the energy of everyone in the room. No, he wasn't high; he was high on crewmates, his friends in life. His wife is about to have his Son.

"I've been buzzing about this for weeks. I really want us to take a moment to celebrate the Tomcat Crew. Especially our Commanding Officer, Fleet Captain Jasmine Somers!!!"

"Everyone, please a Round of Applause for your Commanding Officer, Fleet Captain Jasmine Somers of the USS Tomcat. If not applause, a standing applause, and or a hard, sharp salute."

"Fleet Captain Somers Congratulations!!!" all said.

Jasmine was sitting there quietly observing events and having a drink when the mention of her name startled her, a Deer caught in Headlights moment as she looked around *sighs* she stands and politely nods to all those applauding.

"New ship, new chapter, same family. Felt like the perfect excuse to pull everyone together for some good food, good drinks, and even better stories.

So thank you all for coming. This one’s for us, for the Tomcat."

At that, Maggie clapped loudly. She smiled. Finally, she felt like she belonged here. It had been a long, hard road, but she'd managed to stay alive, find a husband, not get kicked out of Starfleet, and have friends. Lucky.

Leland, along with Todd, Gavin and their respective teams, stood up as well. All eyes were on Fleet Captain Somers. She was a stalwart of the crew, and everyone you could tell in this room took every chance to celebrate leadership.

*Leland taps a quick command on the console*

The open cooking area in the centre of the room shimmers and dissolves, the grills and prep stations vanishing into light. In their place, a long, elegant dining table materialises. All polished dark wood, plenty of room for everyone assembled, with comfortable chairs sliding silently into position.

Around the edges of the room, classical Greek statues. Tall, marble-white holograms of gods and muses come to life with subtle grace, gliding forward to offer trays of drinks and steaming plates of hot food...

Leland, the host, turned to Fleet Captain Somers.

"Captain, if you will do the honours with a toast." Jasmine was Seated at the Head of the Table of Course as the CO of the Ship.

She embarrassingly looks over at Leland as she walks to the head of the table and whispers in his ear, "I am so going to make you pay for this" Her tone was neutral, but her smile held mischief. She stood at the head of the table.

Leland flashed back such a knowing smile. A smile that was mischievous in nature and humorous in action. He knew very well Somers wasn't one for speeches; however, as ranks ascended, the more pomp and pressing activities were added.

She stiffened her posture and looked at her assembled crew. Quietly, she cleared her throat, "I am not one for long speeches or toasts, so I will make this as quick as possible so that we can all enjoy this excellent food" She paused "If you get promoted or elevated, it means you have earned what you get. Elevation or promotion is not given out freely; it has to be earned now, with thanks to Leland Hawksley and his Wife for putting on this spread in medium-sized quarters, which is a miracle, so kudos and thanks. As to you, the crew of the USS Tomcat, I offer this toast to the best crew in Starfleet since the Enterprise-D. May you keep on serving this ship and Starfleet well," she said and paused, then raised her drink.

"SALUTE!" she said.

"HERE here!!!" Leland ensured his masculine, long vocal cords were piped and ready to rouse everyone else from their drinks and conversation. "To Fleet Captain Jasmine!!!" He held up his now half-finished drink.

Dodd then held up his glass and added, "To one hell of a grand captain to serve under, Jasmine, you are the best captain anyone could have on our side."

" To the captain," Thex added to the voices, raising her own drink as she did so.

Jasmine felt her face redden; she just hoped that the red cheeks were not showing.

Raising his glass, Stone said, "Most excellent Captain, SALUT!" With the others as he took a drink.

"Salute!" Came LeFebvre's reply, tinged in Standard French, her mother's native language.

Todd held his beer up with his hand; he nodded towards the Captain. "Captain, Cheers to you!" While standing up tall.

Ross extended his hand outward with an engaging smile towards the Captain. "To the Captain!! Here Here!!"

Faith's attention turned from Glenn long enough to listen to the speech and the toast. Lifting her non-existent drink, "Here, here."

[OFF]

 

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