Scorning The Wife

The Marines exited the turbolift fully armed. Commander Toran got up and headed towards the Marines. As he did he turned around. "Rashad. I think that I can use you down on the surface."

Rashad jumped up and followed the commander. He tapped his combadge, "Ensign Katts. Report to Transporter Room three."

[Acknowledged.]

"Commander." Devore said looking at the Commander from his chair. "Try not to get stuck down there."

Soliel smiled. "Try not to leave us behind."

"Touche !"

The turbolift doors closed behind them as Captain Devore rubbed his chin and approached Ops. McCaffee continued to monitor the helm as the turbolift came to a stop. Ensign Grafton stepped off the into the Bridge. He looked around and saw Lieutenant MacLeod and Captain Devore at Ops going over some information. Tactical was empty and Jake headed there and once there went to work. He started scanning the approaching ships to keep an eye open in case of the enemy ships turn course.

"Ensign good to see you back on the Bridge where you belong." Captain Devore said walking in front of the Tactical station.

"Thank you sir, I agree I enjoy the Bridge as well sir." Grafton responded. He then went back to work and started running some test on the ship's weapon systems, then came a com message from the Ronin.

"Sir we are being hailed by Captain Evans."

Devore sat in his chair and then leaned back and said. "On screen."

"Yes Captain ? And what's you status ?"

[We are ready to get underway in a matter of hours, I was wondering if you could send over a few things.]

"Well see send over the list and I'll do what I can. Devore out." Devore stood up and turned to Grafton, and said. "Ensign send me the list in my ready room and Mister MacLeod keep me informed of the away teams status.

Devore turned and went into his ready room. He sat down at his desk and rubbed his eyes. He really wanted to take a break, but it doesn't seem like he will. As he sat back in his chair he saw a picture of his wife which sat on his desk positioned so that Devore could always see a peaceful site during a moment of turmoil.

The picture was of Sierra who was sitting on a beach. He remembered it to be of Cancun on Earth of a quick vacation they took while they were at the Academy. They weren't married yet but she was still as beautiful as ever. Young and vivacious. Her two piece barely covered her hourglass figure. Devore gently brushed the picture, a tear formed in his eye, as he realised that in the passed few days he has been rejecting her, pushing her away.

[Captain.] Toran began.

Devore shook of the tear and wiped his nose. He didn't want the crew to see a sign of vulnerability.

"Go ahead."

[The away team is assembled and we are ready to go.]

"Very well old man. Be careful."

[Acknowledged.]