Conversation

Posted on Thu Sep 30th, 2021 @ 5:09am by Avalon [ADMIN NPC] & Commodore Evelyn Mountbatten [ADMIN NPC] & Captain Garrett Lovejoy [ Taylor]

Mission: Season 5: Episode 2: Operation Save Humanity
Location: Executive Officer's ready room
Timeline: MD8 05h00
905 words - 1.8 OF Standard Post Measure

Evelyn had heard what happened. She sat in her office and called the Elysium immediately. When she reached the Elysium's comm officer she said "Put me through to Commander Lovejoy."

Garrett was in his office when the Commodore's call came in. Activating the screen, he greeted her. "Commodore Mountbatten." He said simply. He thought he knew the reason for her call.

Evelyn studied his face for a moment. "Tell me what happened Garrett" she said calmly.

Garrett nodded slowly and began to talk. "Captain Carrington had a delegation from the planet brought aboard the Elysium for a dinner and discussions. The delegation included President Green and his 'advisors' who were really super soldiers. Security protocols were in place around key areas of the ship. I was on the bridge. I don't know the exact course of events but Green and his advisors took some serum that heightened their speed, strength and endurance to pain and injury." He paused for a moment before continuing. Captain Carrington was thrown onto the bridge but not before she was able to call Red Alert. It gave the crew needed seconds to act. Green had her pinned to the floor on her stomach. I was thrown across the bridge when I tried to help her. Then in pure callowness. Green snapped Captain Carrington's neck." He looked at Mountbatten. "She was a hero Commodore, she died saving the crew."

Evelyn nodded "A shuttle is on its way for her remains. Her family wants her buried on Earth." She briskly said, "I would like all your senior staff reports within the next 72 hours on the situation as well."

"Off course Commodore. You will have them." Garrett assured her.

"Now, As to the command structure of the Elysium. I would like your thoughts?"

"To be honest Commodore, I hadn't really thought about it. Been busy with repairs and holding the crew together. The crew needs a captain they feel they can trust and will have their backs. They didn't feel that way with Captain Carrington. Some of that is because she had the misfortune to follow Phoenix Lalor into the centre seat. Also need a good, solid XO. Lt. Whavi is fine as second officer but not ready to be XO at this time."

Evelyn nodded and considered his words. "Who then for Executive Officer Commander?"

Garrett didn't hesitate. "Gary Taylor. He should have been captain. The crew likes and respects him. They trust him Commodore. Not to mention he knows the ship and it's systems. He knows what it is capable of and what the crew is capable of."

"Good" Evelyn nodded. "He will be your Executive officer. You are hereby promoted to Captain and Command of the Elysium is given to you,"

Garrett sat motionless. He didn't even speak. As a myriad of thoughts ran through his brain. Yes, he wanted to be a captain but not like this. Taking the mantle because the previous captain had been killed. After a few seconds he spoke, "Commodore, are you sure? Maybe it would be better if Gary should be Captain." He replied.

"For now, Captain Lovejoy, the Elysium is yours to command." She replied calmly.

Garrett knew better than to argue with the Commodore when her mind was made up like it was now. He nodded. "Yes Commodore. I understand. Thank you for giving me this opportunity." He replied sincerely.

"I know you will make the most of it Captain. Which reminds me, Captain Lalor left me with a few promotion notes, I will forward them on to you. At least 3 of your ships ensigns have enough time in rank for a promotion. That and securing the chain of command will be among your first duties."

"Understood Commodore. I look forward to receiving the notes Captain Lalor left you in regard to promotions as well as securing the chain of command." Garrett answered crisply.

"Good Luck Captain. I trust you will inform Commander Taylor of the news?"

" You trust correctly. Indeed I will Commodore once I transfer command functions to my control." Garrett replied with a ghost of a smile.

"I am sure Avalon will assist with that. Good Luck again." Evelyn smiled and severed the connection.

"Thank you Commodore." Garrett responded but the channel had been closed. "Avalon." He called for the Elysium's AI.

"Commander" The AI Appeared.

"By order of Commodore Mountbatten, I have been promoted to Captain. Please log that and have all command functions transferred to me effective this date."

"Of course Captain." the AI said "Done. Congratulations"

"Thank you Avalon. I look forward to working with you." Garrett informed the AI.

The AI inclined her head. "I have yeomen packing up the late captain's effects. You should be able to move into those quarters within 24 hours."

"Very good Avalon. Thank you for your efficiency in this unpleasant situation. It is most appreciated."

The AI nodded "If there is nothing else Captain I shall make sure these things are being completed."

"No, nothing else Avalon. Thank you again for overseeing That situation." Garrett answered evenly.

The AI gave a brief smile and vanished, leaving Garrett to his thoughts.

Alone, Garrett reflected on the sudden changes. He needed to let Sam know. He had to talk with Gary and inform him of his reappointment to XO then have a meeting with Gary and Baeryn in maintaining the chain of command and keeping the crew's trust in the command team.