The bridge is a scene of controlled activity, illuminated by the soft glow of holographic displays and consoles. The large panoramic view screen showcases the endless expanse of space, dotted with distant stars and the Betreka Nebula, providing a serene backdrop that contrasts with the tension among the crew. The air hums with the subtle sounds of machinery and the quiet chatter of officers diligently monitoring their stations.

Leaning in her chair, leg crossed over her other, Likika looked at the compiled evidence of tampered shipments and Klingon disruptor signatures. She saw the route that was flagged and initially wanted to avoid it altogether, but her inner spirit urged her to investigate it, to uncover the cause. “What if we alter our flight plan and investigate the corridor we flagged earlier?” she asked, looking up from her PADD and waiting for any reaction.

Zoe was the first to respond, feeling a chill down her spine. Facing enemies out there was part of the job, but when it came so close, it was getting scary. “I don’t know, Captain. Deviating from the assigned cargo route into an unknown area is not something I am fully trained on.” The nervousness was evident in her voice, yet she kept her focus on the console.

“Without proper authorization, we might get into trouble by changing the route so suddenly,” Sarin echoed Zoe’s concerns on a different level and looked at Amar, who seemed amused.

Amar was not expecting this side from Likika, but it was his duty to counter dangerous suggestions. “Yes, I advise caution in thinking like that, Commander. We are here to follow Starfleet protocol, and that helps us avoid potential diplomatic incidents.”

A quiet hum came from T’Zel as she arrived at the bridge, hearing the daring plan. “Captain, altering our course to investigate the corridor could indeed yield valuable intelligence on the tampered shipments.” She dismissed the engineer at the bridge engineering console. “However, we must approach this methodically. I recommend a thorough systems check and recalibration of our sensor arrays to ensure we can handle the additional strain without compromising our current operations.”

A nod came from Koro. “If we stay on our route, we might miss critical opportunities to intercept the smugglers. Proactive measures could protect our cargo and crew more effectively.” He had a certain determination in his eyes.

Taking a deep breath and placing the PADD down, Likika felt the pull between her Romulan instincts for decisive action and Starfleet’s emphasis on protocol. “We need a balanced approach. Lieutenant Nisari, prepare a formal request for clearance to alter our course. Ensign Nnedi, work with Lieutenant T’Zel to enhance our sensor monitoring along the corridor. Lieutenant Rixn, ensure our security measures are ready for any potential encounters.”

The crew nodded, understanding the delicate balance they needed to strike. Likika felt a sense of unity and purpose as they began to implement the new directives, aware of the challenges and the uncertainties that lay ahead.

Ready Room

The ready room was a blend of personal and professional elements, reflecting Likika’s unique position as a Romulan serving in Starfleet. The room was modest, adorned with a few personal artifacts that hint at her Romulan heritage, small sculptures and subtle insignias alongside star charts. The large desk was cluttered with PADDs and official reports, a testament to the ongoing challenges she faced. Soft ambient lighting created a calm environment, offering a stark contrast to the high-stakes decisions she had to make.

She let her head rest on the back of her chair and closed her eyes for a second. The struggles of adapting to Starfleet were growing by the day. Likika was used to immediate action and not being restrained by Starfleet protocols. She opened her eyes the moment the door slid open, seeing Amar entering.

Amar saw Likika sitting there, the sense of emotional turmoil dripping off her, which made Amar softly smile, knowing his duty at this moment. “You can balance your proactive leadership with procedural adherence. I gladly guide you to find that balance, Captain.”

Letting go of a deep breath, Likika looked at Amar. “Spoken like a true Starfleet officer. Now I sound skeptical, but these protocols are holding me back from taking action.” Likika shrugged, looking out her window from her desk chair. “I just hope I can find that balance, Lieutenant.”

“The importance of documentation and seeking approval before making significant changes is what we, Starfleet, stand for. Order in chaos,” Amar carefully explained. He understood her struggle but felt little offended by her crude observation.

“Lieutenant Nisari, we have a response from Starfleet,” Sarin spoke over the comm.

“We are on our way,” Amar smiled, seeing that Likika was already standing up.

Bridge

Entering the bridge, both Likika and Amar took their respective places. “What did they say, Lieutenant De Soto?” Likika asked while sitting down in her chair.

“They grant clearance for the course change, acknowledging the validity of the crew’s concerns and the potential intelligence gains,” Sarin said, shrugging a bit. “We better prepare for the worst and hope for the best,” hoping nothing would come at them during the investigation.

It sounded like music to her ears. Likika nodded. “Alright, Ensign Nnedi, alter our flight plan. Everyone else, adjust systems accordingly to the change and provide confirmation when done.” Likika gave Amar a quick glance before looking back at the main screen.

“Flight plan successfully changed.” Despite Zoe initial nervousness, she’s demonstrating growth in her role by standing firm behind her Captain’s decision.

Sarin tapped his console. “Monitoring the enhanced ship’s sensors.” T’Zel spoke as they both ensured readiness for any unexpected encounters.

Coordinating with the security team to implement discreet monitoring protocols along the new route, Koro gave Likika a nod the moment she looked in his direction as his attention snapped back to his console to continue his work.