It was the New Year's Party on board the Virgo. Everyone was happy, drinking, dancing, singing, and laughing. The crew was assembled in the Cargo Bays, Holodecks, and Mess Hall. They were celebrating the new year: 2382. Lazarus Kox, the resident Entertainment Director, was making sure that everyone was having fun. All duties had been postponed until January 2.
"All right," said the Captain, quieting everyone. "I have an announcement. Today, on our New Year's Party, I'd like to surprise two crew members. Now, I know it's not your birthdays yet, but I thought this might be a special surprise anyway. Lieutenant Junior Grade Jonathan Lataro and Ensign K'Lara, please step forward."
The entire crew applauded.
Lataro and K'Lara smiled at the thought of the surprise that awaited them.
Maruu continued. "Lieutenant Junior Grade Jonathan Lataro, due to your active and unflagging loyalty to your crew and the United Federation of Planets, your courage in battling our new alien enemy, and your determination, I, Captain Stephen Maruu of the Federation Starship Virgo, hereby promote you to the rank of Lieutenant. Congratulations, Lieutenant."
Lataro was overjoyed. He accepted the pip and shook the Captain's hand.
Maruu moved to K'Lara. "Ensign K'Lara, due to your exemplary behavior onboard this vessel, unflagging loyalty to the United Federation of Planets, ability to maneuver this ship out of harm's way, and saving the Virgo from utter annihilation twice in succession, I, Captain Stephen Maruu of the Federation Starship Virgo, hereby promote you to the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade. Congratulations, Ensign."
K'Lara, too, was euphoric. She accepted the pip and shook the Captain's hand.
Maruu congratulated them again and went to Lazarus so he could get something to eat. He was famished. "Lazarus, my friend. What do you suggest?"
Lazarus greeted the Captain. "Well, Sir, the Terran spaghetti is in demand today. But we have other delicacies here if you like?"
"Nah. I'll try the spaghetti. I hope it's good."
"The best." Lazarus smiled and served the food while the rest of the crew enjoyed the shipwide party.