Matthew Connor's Story

So the day had finally come. The day he had been anticipating for, the day he had been dreaming of....the day, to command his own starship. It had been, quite a trek, but in the end, all his efforts, all his hard work, had all paid off. In the last 5 years, he had served on the USS Excalibur as First Officer, serving under Captain Andrew Garland. She was a beautiful ship, and after serving so long, it was hard to pull away, but after getting that call to have his own command, who could turn it down. Who wouldn't? You'd have to mad to turn down such an offer, to have your own command.

Back when he was younger, he heard stories about his Great-Grandfather who commanded the USS Yeager, a Miranda-class starship, a ship to have believed to be in the Mothball fleet, until recent news highlighted how it had been upgraded, and who better to place in command than another Connor. Jerry Connor took the Yeager out in order to make a name for the Federation, to defend the Federation, with it's aim to repel any enemy attempts to weaken them.

Not long after Jerry Connor and the Yeager departed, a year later, Captain Christopher Pike took command of the Enterprise on a mission of exploration, which later was given to Captain James T Kirk after resigning. Matthew heard all about Kirk and the Enterprise, so he was delighted when the Captain of the USS Mercurie recommended him to the Enterprise B. At that time, it was just another assignment, but never expected for Kirk to be a guest there.

With his great-grandfather, Kirk, and all his commanding officers' in his service as role models. Now, Matthew was being a commander himself, along with the promotion to Captain. It was indeed great news that he was to command a starship, but even greater when he found out it was the Yeager. He only saw pictures of it on LCARS but now he was staring at it and seeing it with his own eyes. It was not as big and grand as the Excelsior that was also there, but it sure was swift.

"It's time for you to show us what you are made of Captain. Do the Federation proud, and Godspeed", was a voice behind him, from a man he was well acquainted to, the Captain of the USS Mercurie, though he was an Admiral now. Admiral Tobias Gallagher. Admiral Gallagher was responsible for watching his process and got him the assignment, calling him to Starbase 42 where the Yeager was waiting. "Thank you sir", was Matthew's reply, with his hands behind his back, before walking down the steps of the promenade and moving towards the shuttle that was to take him up to see her.....

Admiral Gallagher had not only been directly responsible for Connor's appointment as captain of the USS Yeager, he also had significant influence in appointing the very first Adellian in a position of importance aboard a star ship, one Lieutenant Gelbia, who would become chief Helmsmen.

His induction into StarFleet brought about much controversy, his acceptance as helmsman for the star ship Yeager was met with considerable unease and distrust. Much of the skepticism coming from those who had high hopes of being appointed to such positions themselves; the fact that Adellians were natural-born helmsmen was their major concern.

Captain Connor had just stepped up to the activation sensors which cause the the shuttle bay door to slide open, when he heard Admiral Gallagher call to him from behind. Turning to face his superior Connor was introduced to the newest member of StarFleet, a mysterious alien in a long gray robe who was now standing beside the Admiral, his head lowered in respect to Matthew's rank.

The Admiral was not predisposed to Connor's attitudes toward the Adellians as a species, as a result he wasn't sure if the Captain would react favorably to Gelbia's induction into StarFleet and as helmsmen of the USS Yeager.

The tall, gray clad alien stepped toward the Captain and slowly lifted his head to reveal its pure white complexion and black hollow eye sockets.

"Good day, Captain Connor." The lanky alien with a sheet-white complexion commented in a voice which ran the range between masculine and feminine tones and inflections.

The shuttle was now in sights and was about to enter when he heard the familiar voice of Admiral Gallagher, "Captain!", as Matthew turned round and noticed a tall man with a pale face, covered in a long grey robne beside him. It hadn't been long since Admiral Gallagher had spoken to him, so no doubt his calling of him had something to do with the one beside him.

When he was infront of him, Admiral Gallagher held his hand out towards the one beside him, [b]"Captain, I'd like you to meet your Chief Helmsman, Lieutenant Gelbia, the first of the Adellians to join Starfleet. I am sure you will help him feel right at home", smiling, as he tapped Gelbia's shoulder with a nod, before he had to make more preparations.

Gelbia bowed before lifting his head up, "Good day, Captain Connor". Matthew cast a glance at him and looking at his attire, he then lifted his own head up, "Pleased to meet you Lieutenant, though I do hope that you will dress in uniform when you are on duty, the same rule that applies to all. As far as I am concerned, you are a Starfleet Officer and will be treated as one. Being the first of your race will be a challenge, but you have the abilities to do well, and I for one wish for each of my crew to succeed, and believe you will succeed too", as his command face switched to a smile.

"You know, when the Vulcans first got involved in Starfleet, there was much scepticism, but in the end, they were regarded highly and were assets on the ships they served on. It is now your turn to do the same". Back on the Yeager under his great-grandfather's command, crew mostly consisted of humans with a few vulcans, just like the Enterprise with both Captain Christopher Pike and Captain Kirk, but they were able to prove themselves and now many starships had a serving Vulcan. Not only was the Federation growing in terms of knowledge, but technology, ships, and more species banding together with Starfleet to form the United Federation of Planets, which had all begun with Captain Jonathan Archer of the first Enterprise. He couldn't imagine such times back then, but alot had changed since then, and more was to change in time to come. Matthew was privileged to be able to be the ship that set out a chain of events, similar to what the Enterprise had set in motion.

Gelbia was relieved and somewhat surprise that the Captain's welcome had been so civil, he wasn't expecting warm and understanding welcome, not that one could tell by Gelbia's largely expressionless response. However, Gelbia did perk up a bit as the Captain started to reference the Vulcan's and their contributions to StarFleet, as this was the Adellians sole desire, to establish his species within the Federation.

Having no noticeable pupil in their black glassy eyes, it was very difficult to discern a Adellians expressions of either fear or delight. By the time Captain Connor had begun to express his approval at Gelbia's appointment the admiral had turned and walked away, leaving only the Adellian to witness the arrival of Lieutenant Commander S'Krel, who had emerged from the door which lead to the shuttle bay-Now standing still.

S'Krel waited for his commander to finish his speech of acceptance before making his presence known. Captain Connor was preoccupied with his overtly humanist lecture, as S'Krel cynically perceived it. Physiologically speaking, Gelbia was of no assistance in the realization of the Vulcan's sudden appearance, with his expressionless facial features.

Nevertheless, the Captain had finished his address to the new Adellian recruit, S'Krel was now free to introduce himself to his new commander. Taking a few steps forward S'Krel revealed himself to the slightly surprised Captain Connor.

"Captain. I shall serve as your second in command aboard the USS Yeager. I am S'Krel, son of Spock, your obedient second." Came the steady and distinct voice of a tall Vulcan dressed in official StarFleet apparel; his head turned toward Gelbia as S'Krel examined his inappropriate attire before finally turning toward the Captain to end his introduction.

This reaction was not wasted on Gelbia, who by now was use to such glances of quick judgment. The Adellian would response to this by immediately whipping off his long gray robe to reveal the StarFleet uniform beneath. The Captain immediately sensed a possible clash of cultures, the commander' reaction to the presence of the Adellian seemed misplaced, especially in light of the general Vulcan attitude of acceptance toward other beings.

Knowing very little about the Adellians, the captain wasn't able to perceive their general attitudes, though he could plainly see Gelbia's frustration.

When he was told that he would get his own command, he was certainly pleased. When he was told that it would be the Yeager, he was thrilled, though never expected for his ship to be host for the first of the Adellians, just like the Enterprise was the first to host the first Vulcan serving officer. In Earth's early history centuries back, there were a large portion of the population whose attitude differed between the colour of one's skin or the gender, but overtime after suffering the effects in World Wars, Earth had learnt to bond together and now all was at peace. Afterall, how could they be expected to be ambassadors of other races, if they could not show how they were, as many races, whether they deny it or not, once had quite a past as they had, so none were perfect if looking over the whole history.

With Gelbia's expressions, he wasn't sure what his reaction was, which meant he would be pretty hard to read. As first officer, he was responsible for crew evaluations, and being able to read between the lines helped a great deal. It seemed the only way he could put together a report, which was required, would be through his actions, though he hoped that such reactions were just jitters. Matthew valued all the work he himself had done so far, and he wished to be an example and for his crew likewise to be proud in their work, which would result in the Yeager being successful and being recognised by the Federation, and how good that would be, for the Adellian people aswell, to have one of their own known by their deeds, though if, like any other officer, he underperformed, then he would have to make a command decision.

However, it was not the voice of Gelbia that he heard next, but a voice behind him that startled him, as he turned and faced the man as he introduced himself. "son of Spock", it surely felt that the Enterprise was being recreated afterall. Now all they needed was a Sulu, but this was not the Enterprise, it was the Yeager, and though they had the feats of the Enterprise to beat, he was sure they could do it.

He personally had served on the Enterprise-B under Captain Harrison where the famous Captain Kirk had perished, which was a grand excelsior-class, yet you could never beat the grander models like the constitution, constellation, and the miranda. All great in their own right. Though Matthew had a history in Security, he did have quite a range experience, and learning from other officers round him, and what he learnt was to watch body language carefully, which he did so, seeing S'Krel glance to Gelbia, before seeing Gelbia remove his cloak and reveal the uniform, but looking carefully, he could see he wasn't too happy.

Fantastic! It seemed the Adellians and Vulcans were going to be best-buds, not. Asking for a command, and immediately having tension rise straight away. He himself had asked about the uniform, but was satisfied if it was on when on-duty, seeing as officers could wear what they please when they were not, and if it was going to get to the heat of it all and seeing who was doing things rong, S'Krel had entered the shuttle before him and spoke when he was behind him rather than making eye contact first. He had quite a task on his hands.

Thankfully, he saw someone he was familiar with, Lieutenant Liam O'Reilly, who he had trained alongside back in the academy. He would serve in Security, as he could see his uniform with the red collar round his neck. Turning back to them, he then spoke up again forcing the tension to end, "I believe it would be prudent for Lieutenant Gelbia to fly the shuttle up to the Yeager", wouldn't you, Commander?", before glancing towards Liam who was approaching, "Ah, and here's security now", pleased of his timing.

General Order 34, Starfleet captains will honor, respect, and display extreme tolerance for species-based customs and practices insofar as the safety of the vessel is not threatened by such practices. Matthew needed no order to be respectful towards other, but what he needed to do was make sure that no issues would occur that would disrupt the solidarity of his crew.

"Lieutenant Liam O'Reilly reportin for duty Captain", as the man lifted his hand up and saluted, before looking towards the shuttle and then to the Yeager, before saying aloud, "General Order 15, No flag officer shall beam into a hazardous area without armed escort", before turning to Matthew, "You need me Captain".

Matthew couldn't help but smile, "We're not beaming in, but going by shuttle, and we're not entering a hazardous area either", having a feeling where this was going. "You still need armed escort, and you never know what hazards await you on a cleaned up ship. The floor might be super wet with no warning sign. Now that's a hazard, sir", making sure to refer to him properly.

"You've not changed one bit have you? If you wish to come along with us, all you need to do is ask", as his head tilted towards the shuttle, before turning to Gelbia, "I see no reason why you can't show us all your abilities in the cockpit, but if you prefer not to, and rather enjoy the view, then that's fine with me".

With Liam and Gelbia to enter the shuttle, his attention was then his first officer, "Commander, is this your first assignment?", curious, seeing that he weren't able to see his service record. The meeting would come later, but it was something he was curious, and in light of the circumstances arisen, it was currently top priority for him to find out.

Adellians were significantly different from Vulcan's in terms of their emotions, and although they also adhered to logic thinking they had not forsaken their humanity, as it were. He therefore felt as sense of regret for his rash and illogical action of angrily removing his gray rope, he certainly did not intend for this to come off as some sort of challenger to the young Vulcan commander.

Gelbia was about to apologize to both the Captain and the Commander, when the approaching security officer suddenly interrupted his apologetic mode. After a brief moment of light-hearted banter between Captain Connor and lieutenant Liam O'Reilly his commander inquired as to the Adellian possible interest in piloting the shuttle to the star-ship Yeager.

Connor had asked this of Commander S'Krel who by logic alone was required to answer positively to the suggestion. "Yes Captain, I do believe that would be appropriate. I have no doubt as to the lieutenants qualifications and abilities."

The wording of his response was in direct contrast to his most recent attitude; as time goes on the Captain and his crew would come to recognize the dramatic shifts of attitude which the Vulcan would express at any given point. At the present time these alterations of personality weren't as noticeable.

"Yes, I would very much like to pilot the shuttle for you Captain, I consider this assignment as the greatest of opportunities, not only for me personally but for my kind."

Before making their way to the shuttle Captain Connor inquired as to his second-in-commands previous StarFleet assignment, to which the Vulcan quickly responded.

"Command speaking, this is my first assignment, though I have served in a purely scientific capacity on star-base Delta 6, one year prior to arriving in my current position."

Gelbia made the first move toward the bay door, draping his gray robe over his left forearm.

The shuttles interior was cramped and clotted with the guts of the small craft in the form of computer consoles, limited seating and single viewing screen situated upon the front panel-Tinted to opaqueness and tilted back, its natural state until being activated by the shuttle pilot sitting in the navigators seat.

Adellians were known for being exceptionally tall on the average and therefor stepping into the shuttle meant hunching the back and leaning forward.

Matthew was pleased that the tension had cut down, as S'Krel responded positively to his suggestion, "Yes Captain, I do believe that would be appropriate. I have no doubt as to the lieutenants qualifications and abilities", before he heard Gelbia respondly positively also, "Yes, I would very much like to pilot the shuttle for you Captain, I consider this assignment as the greatest of opportunities, not only for me personally but for my kind".

He was pleased that things had started to settle down, and with him placing Gelbia at the helm, rather than a shuttle pilot from the station, it would demonstrate to those aboard and those who could see, of the skills that Gelbia possessed. A perfect opportunity to shine, which was no doubt what he sought, not to mention the greater opportunity with his assignment to prove to all of the abilities of his race. The fact that he was on the Yeager and under his command, it was a task that would meet with success, as he wished all to succeed.

Liam followed Gelbia into the shuttle and took his seat as he watched the Adellian take the front seat, before leaning in his chair and beaming, before glancing over to him, "So, Lieutenant Gelbia, or can I call you Gelbi for short". He sure was cocky when he felt like it, and having the off-duty feeling, it encouraged it, "You looking forward to this assignment?"

Meanwhile outside of the shuttle, Matthew stood with his First Officer, as S'Krel explained how this was his first command assignment, and how the rest of his career has been on Starbae Delta 6 for scientific research. Soon as he mentioned science, he couldn't help but smile, "Well I am most pleased to have you aboard S'Krel, and no doubt your scientific knowledge will be a great aid to us as we journey through the stars. Just like what Captain Kirk had said on the Enterprise, all I ask for is a tall ship, and the stars to guide her by", seeing as the former Enterprise crew were either reassigned or retired now. As a young kid, he was fascinated by all the stories, and now he was making his own.

Before he looked up towards the Yeager, "So what do you think of her, S'Krel?", he asked, giving him the chance to speak freely and spoke to him with his first name rather than his rank to highlight that. Afterall, they were off-duty.

The four crew members of the USS Yeager, which included its captain, had split into groups of two, with Gelbia and the much younger human lieutenant entering the shuttle, leaving S'Krel and Captain Connor standing outside the bay as they discussed the vessel's potential. Both humans had questions to ask of their alien ship mates, Lieutenant Liam's inquiry was the more personal of the two.

He had asked Gelbia if he minded the nickname of Gelbi, which had elicited a slight smile from Adellian, turning his head to the left he replied. "No, I do not mind such a moniker."

Liam's second question would evoke a more profound reply from the helmsman. "I am greatly honored to be stationed aboard the Yeager. It promises great opportunity for my species to establish itself within StarFleet and the Federation in general."

On the other side of the bulked Captain Connor had similar questions to ask of his second-in-command, one which also pertained to hardware, namely that of the star ship Yeager.

"She is a fine vessel Captain, the retooling should improve its performance to considerable degrees of reliability and functionality. Now, I believe that we are in danger of being tardy in our boarding of the ship. Shall we Captain." Said S'Krel as he stretched out his right arm in an escorting gesture.

Back within the shuttle craft Gelbia was preparing to depart the space station. Shifting to find a more comfortable position within the navigators chair of slightly insufficient size, the Adellian pilot commented.

"I hope my seat at the helm of the illustrious Yeager is far better suited for my form. I guess they didn't have Adellians in mind when they designed this shuttle seat." Gelbia joked as he began activating all take-off systems.

Liam couldn't help being cocky from time to time. Even today, he still remembers his youthful, boastful days back in academy, and Matthew was to blame for bringing them back up. They were good times, and now he was reunited with him, he couldn't wait to begin their mission of exploration. With him in charge of Security, not only will his foes be afraid, but his team aswell. Fear earns obediance, obediance means no trouble due to fear, so all worked out...though that was more of the Klingon approach than him. He wasn't as mean as he looked mind you, but was actually in fact a pretty well-rounded guy, who you could have a laugh with. He simply couldn't help himself but chuckle when Gelbia turned, and said, "No, I do not mind such a moniker", in which he then responded, "Then Gelbi it is!". It seemed Gelbi would be alright afterall, Liam thought to himself, seeing as he could take humour, though he wondered what nickname he could give the Commander, he already had a short name, so it was a little harder....maybe do the opposite and come with a longer name. S'Krellian. The thought made him smile.

Gelbi then responded to how he felt to the assignment, how he was honored to be aboard the Yeager and be able to prove himself and his race. From Earth's past, the Vulcans did not see the Humans as capable until they...stuck their neck out and shown what mettle they were made of. This was exactly what the Adellian was doing now, and they sure had quite the neck compared to them, so simply by that illustration, it shown that they could easily stick their neck out and accomplish great things, and soon, Gelbi would be able to demonstrate his abilities, as they awaited Captain Connor and Commander S'Krel to enter before they took off. [b]"So where did you learn how to fly then Gelbi?", he then asked, wondering how they were able to develop their piloting skills, seeing as the only way they could, was if you were a test pilot, or learnt off a pilot while living aboard a starship, holodeck programs, and the most notable way was in academy, for both shuttles and fighters. He himself wished he could do the Vulcan pinch, but what he did have, was the Liam O'Reilly fistacuffs. Now who could complain about them.

Outside, Matthew listened as S'Krel commented on the Yeager, of how it would function well, before ushering him to the shuttle, and the unwillingness to delay their arrival any furthur. "There is a difference between being tardy and admiring a view, but if you insist", he commented, as he followed him into the shuttle, "It is just a shame that those outside get to see the ship yet we can't once we board", before turning to Gelbia, "Lieutenant, when you take us up to the Yeager, I'd like you to fly around it at all angles so we can see what she's got", while at the same, it would give Gelbia more of a chance to demonstrate his skills, and maybe some show-off moves like the young pilots that just finish Academy. "I hope my seat at the helm of the illustrious Yeager is far better suited for my form. I guess they didn't have Adellians in mind when they designed this shuttle seat", Gelbia remarked, as Matthew smiled, "Perhaps Starfleet Corps of Engineering can work on something, but they'd only commit to such a project if it is worthwhile. You don't need me to tell you what burden you have on your shoulders, but what I am sure of, is that the helm on the Yeager would be alot more roomy", he answered, before taking his seat. "Alright then Lieutenant, take us out".

The first task was successfully completed, they had settled upon a clever nickname, cleaver in its most derogatory sense, though Gelbia didn't let Lieutenant O'Reilly know how he really felt about his new moniker. The second feat was to answer another question as to Gelbia's qualifications, this time these inquiries revolved around the specifics of his training.

"I felt that it would be prudent........Perhaps this is a reflection on my own personal desire to excel and I hope it does not reflect badly on me, but I was insistent upon a full regiment utilizing all systems of training." Gelbia was still in the process of preparing the shuttle as he conversed with the lieutenant.

Gelbia had cut short any further explanations of his qualifications as the Captain and the Commander entered the shuttle. He would comply to the Captains suggestion to display some of his prowess in piloting a shuttle craft, though he felt it necessary to explain some of the drawbacks to such a request.

"As I'm sure you are aware, in modern shuttle flight the navigator is nothing more then a glorified button pusher. Everything is automated, from the specific plane of travel, computations of bearing, spatial coordinates, circumnavigation, an infinity of interstellar navigational specifications and terminologies, which I will not burden you with now. Plainly stated, without the Astrogator a space shuttle or star vessel is reduced in significance to a mass of duranium and tritanium metals-An insignificant shell left to float throughout eternity within vast epochs of space."

With that said Gelbia navigated the shuttle out of its space dock and set its bearing for the nearby Yeager, before anyone realized it the shuttle's early warning collision alarms activated. All systems immediately shut down and the shuttle halted its motion toward the USS Yeager. Gelbia then arose from the navigators chair and turned to the Captain.

"All shuttles are equipped with fail safe protocols which disable all computer systems in the event of a possible collision with another vessel. Also keep in mind what I had said about the uselessness of any star vessel without its navigation system, not to mention those systems which supply power to motivate movement. Keeping all this in mind captain would you please provide me with measurement of distance for how close you would like this shuttle to be brought next to the USS Yeager."

Everyone worked hard to get where they were, whatever gender, whatever race, whatever species. This was why Liam was intrugied to find out more about Gelbia and the Adellians. Growing up, he had always wanted to explore, to meet and learn about new cultures, to dive into new adventures. Sometimes he needed a leash when he got carried away, but for now, he was enjoying putting his feet up while it last, as he listened to Gelbia.

"I felt that it would be prudent........Perhaps this is a reflection on my own personal desire to excel and I hope it does not reflect badly on me, but I was insistent upon a full regiment utilizing all systems of training." Liam smiled as his arms made a resting post behind his head, as he then replied with a smile, "Well you seem to be doing alright to me...", before putting his legs down and sitting down properly as steps were heard approaching, putting an end to the banter. Matthew spoiling it again.....

His eyes watched as Matthew went up towards the cockpit and giving Gelbi instructions to fly close to the Yeager so they could see her up close and see their home that they'd be living in for some time. Not only that, but it would also give Gelbi a chance to show off his skills, and if he's bad, then Matthew can use the iron boot. A smirk appeared on Liam's face, before Gelbia then turned round and begun sounding like a vulcan. He left the rest of the thinking to Matthew as he leant in his chair.

Matthew listened intently as Gelbia spoke about the position of a navigator and the navigational system, which he acknowledged with a nod, as he took his seat as the shuttle lifted off and headed towards the Yeager, as all eyes looked forward to the viewscreen before the shuttle stopped, and Gelbia addressed him again. This time he spoke about the failsafe, and then asked for a measurement of how close he'd like, which defeated the objective he had hoped he would pass. He surely had the intellect with what he had already shown, but was interested in the how Adellians were natural helmsman.

He looked at him straight in the eye, "I'd like to leave it at your discretion Lieutenant. You've flew the shuttle well so far, but I cannot give a distance without knowing what you are capable of. Call this...a test of sorts". He needed to aware of what his crew were capable of when they enter missions. He needed to be aware of what they could and could not do, to help his decisions, which is why seeing their progress and seeing their abilities first-hand was critically important....

Gelbia listened intently as the Captain spoke concerning the purpose of his desire to see the Adellian perform some sort of miraculous feat. The tall Adellian, who was forced to stand in a hunch position within the shuttle sank even lower, displaying his regret that he could not fulfill the request, explaining to him further.

"I deeply regret being unable to show display some of my abilities, but you see in order for me to showcase my navigational prowess we would have to place the shuttle in some sort of danger situation. Simply explained, my abilities amount to being able to take control of any vessels navigation system and for a finite amount of time guide that vessel through the reaches of space with exactness of precision. As I would not like to put my fellow crew mates in such a scenario, I'm afraid I have failed you miserable."

Gelbia turned back to the console.

"But seeing as the preparations have already been made." Upon saying that Gelbia activated the booster systems which would enable the shuttle to produce motion, the navigation had already been deactivated.

"The closest a shuttle, or any other vessel can get to a star ship is approximately 32 metres." At that point Gelbia stretched out his arms and held his hands out with palms down, then bowing his head even lower then before he began.

The Adellians were a great mystery to many and so it was rumored that some kind of wild and astonishing thing would happen when one of them used their abilities. Right now Gelbia had wished that this was the truth, knowing that he was unable to fulfill the captains desire for trick-shot shuttle maneuvers.

After a few seconds, and without the aid of the Astrogator Gelbia was able to take over the vessels navigational system. Closer and closer the shuttle came to the Yeager-10 metres-5 metres-1 metre. The shuttle had finally settled one twenty-fifth of an inch from the hull of the USS Yeager.

It seemed that the test that he wished to enact and for Gelbia to pass, was one that seemed for him to be unable to complete. So far, he had enlightened them on the mechanics and facts about navigation, showing off his intelligence. There had been many many stories about Kirk and the Enterprise, and then his familiy's own stories he had heard, and the stories he and his crew would also create for the future generation and generations after. It was from these stories that Matthew knew that as much as space was exciting, it also had it's problems, and with it's problems, it sometimes took risky manoevers to keep them out of danger. He didn't know what awaited them in their journey, but if he needed to take a risk, to throw safety protocols out the window, to save their lives, he needed to know how effective his crew would be. If Lieutenant Gelbia could go beyond the safety protocols, to take risk with a shuttle, who knows what he could do with a starship if he had to order a risky manoever later down the line. This was the test he wished...well to test.

"I deeply regret being unable to show display some of my abilities, but you see in order for me to showcase my navigational prowess we would have to place the shuttle in some sort of danger situation. Simply explained, my abilities amount to being able to take control of any vessels navigation system and for a finite amount of time guide that vessel through the reaches of space with exactness of precision. As I would not like to put my fellow crew mates in such a scenario, I'm afraid I have failed you miserable." Despite how Gelbia seemed displeased by the fact he had disappointed him, he seemed to see the risk involved which is what he wanted, though the next part he wished to see was him taking such risks, in the case that such a situation arises in the future, and he did not like to give tasks that his crew simply could not perform. Afterwhich, the shuttle was then propelled forward as Gelbia explained how "The closest a shuttle, or any other vessel can get to a star ship is approximately 32 metres", before he looked out the viewscreen and saw the shuttle getting closer, alot closer than the 32 metres he had told him.

It was better to try things out, to test and correct mistakes, rather than making a mess of the real thing and really making things worser than things already were. Even if he had done what he hoped in taking risk, he couldn't help but give a smile. Matthew was a daring man, and often called bluffs, testing how others react, see how far they go. In his career, he had certainly done well in the way he acted, as he then spoke up, "I believe you have passed my test Lieutenant. Now if you would, to prevent us lingering too long in a place too close for comfort, return to the standard distance of 32 metres and show us the Yeager, the top, underside, the warp nacelles, everything that you can, for it's this beauty that's going to be our home for some time now. Once you've done, signal the Yeager to dock, as there should be crew on there to open the hatch".

"Impressive flying Gelbi", Liam then said aloud just to bring a little humor to liven up all this tension, before returning to his slumber, resting easy as the shuttle flew across the sky, while his eyes looked out the viewscreen to see the ship he would be aboard. He was responsible for keeping her and her crew safe, and that he would do. Liam was not a man who liked to let people down, especially a beautiful woman, unless they were bad girls, then that was another story, something he wouldn't get himself into....

Gelbia had pulled the shuttle the closest anyone had ever come to a star ship, but then Captain Connor had asked him to fulfill his original request of taking them around the various points of interest to showcase the star ship's new design. The shuttle then moved from the area of the ship where the cargo bay would be, and then under and between the Nacelle and the hull.

From there Gelbia piloted the shuttle beyond the bridge and the over and under the auxiliary navigational deflector. After adjusting for distance Gelbia then took the captain and the several passengers under the sensor dome and then between the weapons pod and finally coming around to navigate the shuttle through the bay doors to enter the USS Yeager.

Sure enough there was a crew awaiting them as Gelbia began preparations to settle the small vessel upon the bay-floor.

Matthew didn't mind the shuttle being so close, though the whole point of that exercise was to test his abilities to the full, to see if his orders would be followed through, no matter how outrageous, odd, or wild it was. It was safe to say that he had passed and that all was going well. Looking out the viewscreen, he saw the top and bottom of the saucer section, the warp nacelles, the weapon arrays, the sensors, until the shuttle entered the shuttlebay. The Yeager was indeed a magnificent ship. Though the miranda-class was small, she sure had her guns, and sure was a feisty one. His great-grandfather Jacob had once commanded her, being her pride and joy, but now she was his pride and joy and he would make sure she would be.

Arriving back on the Yeager, the shuttle had landed as the doors to the shuttle opened up. Outside, the sound of a whistle in a high-pitch was sounded, "Captain, on deck!", came the sound afterwards. Leading the way, Matthew came out the shuttle as officers were lined up single fire, leading towards the exit of the shuttlebay. In each row, every man and woman had their hands raised, saluting his head, only lowering it once given permission which Matthew would then do as he lifted his right hand, "At ease". With them a little more relaxed, Matthew then stepped down as he walked to the start of the isle, meeting the Chief of the Boat, and other enlisted personnel, as well as some cadets that were assigned on the Yeager and other personnel. Stopping here and there to make conversation. If he had the time, then he'd speak to every single one, but he'd be there for way too long, and there was still personnel on the other decks.

Once he reached the end of the makeshift aisle, he then turned round, "To all hands, I welcome each and every one of you, to the Yeager. I trust, that you will serve her well, and that together, we can continue the mission that our ancestors begun. Who knows what new species we may encounter, new worlds, different cultures. Space is big, and we are explorers. We may run into obstacles but we will get round them. I do not believe in the impossible, but what I do believe in, is perserverence. Now, let us perservere, let us do well, let us work together, as we boldly go, where no one has gone before", he then paused before looking to S'Krel, Unless the Commander has anything else to add, you are all dismissed", leaving the window open for the second in command to put in his word.

Matthew glanced to S'Krel to see if there was anything for him to add, something he was expecting being first officer, but he was quiet and shook his head. Maybe he had said everything and there was nothing to add, in which case, he had overdone himself, though S'Krel had been quiet since boarding the shuttle and had not spoken a word since. Something must be on his mind for him to act in such a way, and he was determined to find out, especially if it interferes with his work, which he hoped it would not. Seeing that there was nothing else to say, "Alright then! Your all dismissed. I expect Chiefs of Departments to meet their team with a report on my desk before our departure", before he continued walking as if still in the aisle till he got through the double doors and into the corridors, heading straight for the turbolift.

Once the Captain had left and since the XO had nothing to say, it was then Liam that would then get things moving as he clapped his heads about, "Alright then! All crew are to report to their Department Heads. Until you get notified, each of you have your quarters. Make sure everything is running smoothly before we move out. Any problems, see your Chief", he ordered, before glancing over the crew assembled, "Security. Your with me. Assemble in Holodeck 1 cos we're number 1, in an hour", before he moved over to Gelbi, as he then whispered, "You ready Gelbi?". Liam couldn't wait for his assignment to start, though right now, it would be medical that would have their hands for for crew physicals. Each of the department meetings were arranged in a certain way so that medical could have physicals there and then, in order to get them swiftly done.

(OOC: Not sure if S'Krel would follow Matthew or report to his science team if he is Head of Science also. If with Matt, S'Krel has opportunity to speak to Matt alone, seeing that Liam is with Gelbia)

The enigmatic S'Krel followed the captain to the turbolift, stepping ahead of Matthew as if to make a suggestion of courtesy. S'Krel then waited for the captain to enter the lift first.

"There is very little need for me in the science department at this juncture, I was fully informed of our current status before leaving the station." S'Krel said as he stood to the captains right with eyes facing forward.

S'Krel hadn't made the request for a desired level, not knowing what specific levels the captain had planned in his itinerary, S'Krel really had no idea about the specifics of their voyage.

S'Krel turned his head slightly toward the captain. "I have not however, been informed of our mission or the goals which we are setting out to accomplish. I only assume that it is not of galactic importance, which I deduce from the lengthy boarding procedure."

Matthew journeyed through the corridor heading towards the turbolift, as he saw out the corner of his eye, S'Krel who had moved infront of him, before being courteous in letting him go in first to the turbolift. In his mind, he was unsure if S'Krel would be tending to the officers, before he answered his question, "There is very little need for me in the science department at this juncture, I was fully informed of our current status before leaving the station". Well, there was no doubt in his organisation, though the whole meeting and gathering concept was so officers could get acquainted with their superiors, in both a formal and informal level, as in tense situations, superiors might be strict and stressed as he could be, and if that's all they see, then that would damage the relationship. In order for a group to function, they had to keep working for each other, to help all succeed.

The job of a Starfleet Captain was quite a task, not only continuing Starfleet's mission, but also ensuring the safety of his ship and his crew, and often times acting as mitigator when things went a little out of hand. He hoped that with the way he looked at things, would also be applied and help prevent such problems from arising, and fortunately for the arrival of Lieutenant O'Reilly, the tension between the Adellian and the Vulcan was ceased, though was it over? seeing as S'Krel had remained silent during the voyage while he tested Gelbia's limits.

"I have not however, been informed of our mission or the goals which we are setting out to accomplish. I only assume that it is not of galactic importance, which I deduce from the lengthy boarding procedure", S'Krel then stated which made Matthew smile before pulling the lever near the door, before stating, "Deck One", as the turbolift doors closed and begun it's ascent. Once the lift got moving, he then turned towards S'Krel, "Unfortunately, for a new ship and a new crew, missions of great magnitude go to the more experienced vessels, including that of the USS Enterprise-B", remembering his old assignment. Even without Kirk and his crew, the Enterprise was still the flagship of the Federation.

He found it ironic however that he had described the boarding procedure as lengthy. Wasn't that impatience and a hint of disappointment or anger there. A bit of comic relief there. "As far as our goals go, we continue the mission of exploration, though since we are also a supply ship and also armed, we may be called for missions of that area also. The Yeager may not be a big as the Enterprise-B or even the original Enterprise herself, but she sure has teeth", he replied with a smile.

"If you don't mind security officer Liam, I would like to go directly to the bridge. I am very interested to see an overview of the new guidance system that has been implemented", as Gelbi then walked away. What was it with these alien races, distancing themselves from one another, rushing off to do their duty, no communing or conversing, but buckling down already. He himself worked hard, but he had to live a little too. When he gave his orders, he noticed the Captain had left, no doubt to prepare for meeting his superior officers and of course get his orders for their first mission. Behind him was S'Krel, and now following after was Gelbi. How were the crew supposed to get to know their superior and work well with their superior, if they didn't trust or no them that well. "Fine", he said after Gelbi had walked away before sighing, "I'll just talk to myself...or be the Chief of Security as I am and drag them by their collars", smiling at the thought jokingly. He couldn't override S'Krel or the Captain and didn't have much power over Gelbi since they were of the same rank, but he did have quite an influence since he was in charge of Starfleet Security and if his opinions didn't matter, then don't go blaming him when things go wrong within departments and blame security for not keeping things in order. Security was like the glue that kept everything, and made sure everything ran smoothly. So far, it seemed quite a task, as he clapped his hands again to get the rest of the crew moving before heading for the turbolift to go to his office and get his things in order before he goes to meet his crew.

Meanwhile, Matthew walked out of the turbolift to the middle of the Bridge with S'Krel behind him. His hands, grasped behind his back, as he smiled and looked around, before standing behind the security console, and then over the helm dashboard, before walking over to where the plague was. The Yeager sure was impressive. So many years has the Yeager been in active service, so many adventures, all beginning with his great-grandfather, Captain Jacob Connor. It seemed that the Yeager was once again fortunate to have a Connor onboard again. As he thought about the ship and his great-grandfather and the adventures he himself would be part of, the turbolift doors opened, as all heads turned to attention as Gelbia entered, "I am Gelbia, an Adellian. It is my great honor to be a member of this crew, and to have the chance of serving on the USS Yeager." Matthew smiled, before turning to S'krel, I'll be in my Ready Room if anyone needs me", as he then strode off to read his reports.......