Beyond the Record
Posted on Thu Feb 13th, 2025 @ 8:53pm by Commander Hiro Sommers-Yoshida & Commander Peter Horn
951 words; about a 5 minute read
Mission:
Episode 8: Palingenesis
Location: Starbase 21
ON:
Commander Hiro Sommers-Yoshida sat at his desk in the modest yet functional office overlooking Starbase 21’s command center. The faint hum of the station’s systems filled the air, a constant reminder of the delicate balance required to keep such a place operational. He leaned back in his chair, staring at a PADD in his hand, its display listing the names of officers under consideration for promotion. His brow furrowed as he scrolled through their service records, each line representing not just qualifications but also potential, ambition, and character.
Hiro took his responsibility as Commanding Officer seriously—perhaps more seriously than some thought necessary. But he didn’t care for shortcuts, and he certainly didn’t rush decisions that could shape careers and lives. He was new to the role, a fact that weighed on him more heavily than he would admit to most. Every decision he made seemed to echo with the silent presence of Admiral Leena Haistro, whose shadow still lingered over Starbase 21 even though she had stepped back. It wasn’t just the station he was leading—it was the legacy of a revered officer, and Hiro was determined not to falter.
He glanced at the chrono on his desk. Commander Peter Horn was due shortly. Hiro had asked for this meeting because, despite his meticulous analysis of every candidate, there were nuances that a PADD couldn’t capture. Peter had served on the station longer than he had, and Hiro valued his insight. Leadership wasn’t just about making the right decision—it was about knowing when to listen.
The door chimed, and Hiro straightened in his chair, placing the PADD neatly on the desk before him. He had his thoughts in order, his questions prepared. Promotions were not just acknowledgments of past service—they were investments in the station’s future. Hiro wasn’t about to make such decisions lightly.
Right on time as usual, barring unforeseen circumstances, the Vulcan XO walked in, PADD tucked under his arm. He has been briefed on the change of command and had expressed his approval since he had no desire for full command himself. "Captain," he greeted with a tone of approval, "you look well in maroon.
Hiro smiled at the Vulcan’s greeting, leaning back slightly in his chair. “Thanks, Commander, though I think the uniform might be doing most of the heavy lifting,” he said with a warm tone, gesturing toward the seat across from him. “I’m glad you could make time for this. I trust you’ve had a chance to look over the list of candidates?”
He paused, his expression thoughtful but open. “I really value your perspective on this. You’ve worked with these officers longer than I have, and I want to make sure we approach these decisions in a way that’s fair to everyone involved.” There was no formality in his voice, just the earnestness of someone who took both his responsibilities and his team seriously.
Peter nodded as he sat down. "Yes I reviewed the candidates and I will admit I am torn between using experience and offering someone less experienced a chance. What are your thoughts?" He knew experience would help them through said person was a newer arrival than the less experienced officer.
Hiro leaned forward slightly, his brow furrowing as he considered Peter’s words. “It sounds like you have a few officers in mind,” he said, his voice thoughtful. “Are you thinking about Alena Alessa, Abrasax, and Javor S’rar?” He paused, giving Peter a moment to confirm, before continuing. “Each of them brings something different to the table. Alessa has the experience and shown she has the temperament to handle more responsibility, Abrasax is still finding his rhythm but has showed some good leadership skills, and S’rar… well, he’s solid, but he can be a bit unconventional and unpredictable at times.”
Hiro glanced at Peter, his expression earnest. “What do you think? Are we leaning toward giving Abrasax a shot, or is it Alessa’s steadier hand you’re considering? Or perhaps both have earned it.”
"Both deserve a shot at it. I would recommend the counselor as well could use someone with her diplomatic experience and insights into people behaviour," Peter answered thoughtfully. "Perhaps Abrasax can be responsible for leading away missions as necessary. Alessa can coordinate here, as required."
Hiro nodded in agreement, a thoughtful expression on his face. “I think that’s a sound approach. Abrasax will benefit from the challenge of leading away missions, and Alessa’s experience makes her ideal for coordinating operations here. I’ll reach out to Starfleet Command and recommend they both be promoted.” He paused, leaning forward slightly. “Do you have anyone else in mind who might deserve a promotion? I want to make sure we’re not overlooking anyone who’s earned the opportunity.”
"No, not right now," Peter answered thoughtfully, "do you?"
“I’m not sure,” he said after a moment, his tone thoughtful. “I know most of the crew, but stepping into command has made me see things differently. It’s harder to judge than I expected.”
"Give it a few weeks captain," Peter answered, suppressing a smile, "perhaps you will have thoughts then. Was there anything else you wished to discuss?"
Hiro raised an eyebrow slightly at Peter’s use of “Captain” but decided to let it slide for now. “No, that’s all for today,” he replied with a small nod. “Thank you, Commander. I appreciate your input.”
"That is part of my duties captain," the XO deadpanned. "I will be in OPS if you need me."
Commander Hiro Sommers-Yoshida
CO Starbase 21
Commander Peter Horn
XO
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