“Commodore’s log, stardate seven-nine-three-seven-four. Peace has finally been achieved. It’s been several days since the cease-fire with the Vaadwaur Supremacy was agreed upon. The ramifications of that deal have spread across the galaxy and have been felt by many. The Vaadwaur war machine has come to an end. 

It would appear that the newer generation of their leadership was not keen on the alternative; the absolute collapse of their people. An almost galaxy-wide alliance of so many governments rising against them forced them to listen to us. The loss of their use of underspace corridors to reach regions back home in the Alpha and Beta Quadrants had a significant impact, too. Their defeat in their backyard contributed too. So what’s next? We have already established a few automated monitoring stations to ensure the Vaadwaur keep to their end of the bargain. The fact that we have a deterrent against their underspace is another bonus in our favour. Nevertheless, though this common enemy brought so many together, the significant damage they threw at those living in the Delta Quadrant has had the one effect we hoped wouldn’t happen. Sadly, the Delta Coalition has been disbanded. Those races have returned to their territories to rebuild what was lost, bury their dead, and begin working on how to move on and live their own lives since this conflict. Still, I remain optimistic that if the Vaadwaur threat were to emerge again, those assembled recently would answer the call. We are now waiting to hear back from Starfleet Command about our next move. In the meantime, the Odyssey and Constellation squadrons are assisting those we brought into the alliance.”

USS Constitution (NCC-91700),
Edge of Kezdara System, Vidiian Sodality, Nacene Reach, Delta Quadrant

Doctor Teren Mala walked down the gleaming, polished corridors of the Constitution, flanked by Captain McCallister and Doctor Uknare. The Vidiian physician quietly relayed the latest, sobering developments from the Vidiian Sodality.

“I know it’s the same story you’ve heard from others, but I wanted you to hear it from me, directly,” he said, his voice low and solemn.

Uknare placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. “Teren, don’t worry. No one blames you or your people. It’s understandable.”

“The devastation the Vaadwaur inflicted will be felt for years,” McCallister said.

The young captain couldn’t admit he was disappointed to hear the Vidiian’s decision to retreat into their territory completely. Like his brother and many others, he’d hoped this would be the beginning of something new with the Vidiians. They had the potential to be strong allies. “I just hope your people won’t return to older practices,” he added carefully.

“I share a similar sentiment, Captain,” Mala responded with yearning. “Though my government has ordered a full retreat to our home territory and has begun one of the largest investments in rebuilding our military, that does not mean wealthy individuals would not use their influence and assets to exploit whatever advantages they see on our borders. I fear some will still do whatever it takes to keep them alive.”

“Even with the treatment solutions we’ve provided?” Uknare asked gently.

He nodded. “What you’ve given us is a breakthrough, yes, but not a cure. It slows the Phage and improves quality of life, but the disease is still with us. Thanks to the Vaadwaur.”

McCallister passed a data device to Mala. “This is one final present from us. It’s the information your security and intelligence services can use to find and locate Vaadwaur sleeper agents in your territory.”

Appreciating the present, Mala bowed his head to the captain in a gesture of thanks. “I will pass this on to them immediately.”

As the trio approached the shuttlebay, the large doors parted open, and they stepped in. The small Vaadwaur shuttle in the centre of the room was Mala’s ride out of here. They stopped just in front of it. His pilot waited for him inside.

Before he got to the ramp, Mala turned around and faced the two Starfleet officers. “I can’t thank you and your colleagues for what you’ve given my people and me. A sense of hope, especially knowing my wife is out there, making a difference.”

“Just make sure you make a difference too, doctor,” Uknare reminded him with a smile.

“It’s been our pleasure, doctor. We wish you all the best,” McCallister said, extending his hand to shake Mala’s.

Mala grasped his hand firmly, offering a quiet nod before turning to ascend the shuttle’s ramp.

Stepping back, McCallister and Ukanre watched as the shuttle hovered briefly before gliding gracefully out of the Constitution’s hangar bay. 

“I really hope the Vidiians do change,” Uknare said quietly, glancing at McCallister.

Nodding in agreement, McCallister couldn’t argue with her wish. “If they ever find a cure, I reckon we’ll see them reaching out, trying to find peace with those they’ve wronged so badly over the years. I suppose if the Vaadwaur hadn’t turned up, the Vidiians would most likely find themselves having to deal with so many they’ve pissed off.”

“That would’ve gotten ugly fast,” Uknare remarked.

“Possibly,” McCallister said before giving out a short sigh. He turned to his chief medical officer. “So, doc, fancy joining the rest of the crew for that celebratory round of drinks I promised?”

“Sounds like a good idea to me, Captain,” she replied, smiling. “But first, don’t you need to give the order for us to depart from Vidiian space?”

McCallister nodded and tapped his combadge. “Bridge, set a course out of Vidiian space. Take us to the squadron’s rendezvous point. Maximum slipstream.”

The beta shift helm officer responded with a firm ‘aye, sir,’ before the channel was closed. 

McCallister looked towards Uknare. “So, that drink?”

“Lead the way, sir!” Uknare insisted.

He offered his arm to her, and she gladly accepted it by placing her hand around it. The two then departed from the shuttlebay swiftly. 

USS Astra (NCC-96894), Nacene Reach, Delta Quadrant

“Easy, cadet,” Nurse Stellan advised his patient. He gently touched Jordan’s shoulder to ease him back down on the biobed. Stellan retrieved his medical tricorder and began scanning him.

Disoriented, Jordan’s eyes darted around the unfamiliar surroundings. The last thing he remembered was being thrown across engineering. Now, he was in sickbay, clad in a surgical gown and covered by a Starfleet-issue blanket. “How long?” he rasped, looking up at the blond lieutenant.

“You’ve been in a coma for over a week,” Stellan said softly, gesturing to the other side of the biobed. “Those two have barely left your side.”

Turning his neck to the left, Jordan blinked a few times before squinting. Thanks to the bright lights in sickbay, his vision was at first a bit blurry. He then focused on seeing Scott and Alfie sitting on a small two-person seat. Both were in their uniforms, looking unharmed, but both were asleep. Scott had his arm around Alfie’s shoulder while Alfie’s head rested against Scott’s shoulder with one arm wrapped around his side. However, his mouth was wide open, and he was lightly snoring. 

Instantly, Jordan felt a pang of heartbreak at seeing them like that. Had Alfie found out about him and Scott, or had Scott kept it a secret, like he had promised, and for some reason, was this some guilt trip he was going through? Was Scott supporting Alfie? Or had they both decided to get together while he was in his coma? Had he ruined everything?

“I can wake them, if you want?” Stellan offered.

Jordan shook his head. “No,” he murmured, his gaze lingering on them. “Leave them. Thank you, sir.”

“Okay,” Stellan said, slowly helping Jordan sit upright. “Your vitals are stable. You must be starving.”

“Vamished,” Jordan said, managing a faint smile.

Stellan smirked. “Then let me get you something.”

“Thank you, sir,” Jordan replied. Before Stellan walked away, Jordan quickly spoke up. “Is everyone else okay? The Astra?”

Stellan paused and turned to look back. “The captain and a few others took some injuries, but they’re all recovered, and the ship is almost fixed. Shall I let your brother know you’re awake?”

He nodded. “Yes, please.”

“He’s had to fight off these two for visiting rights more than once,” Stellan said, chuckling. “But being your brother, he always got the final say.”

“Where is Will now?” Jordan asked.

“Helping on the bridge,” Stellan replied. “He’s become quite the bridge officer with Commander Lee, I hear.”

“Great,” Jordan said, happy to hear his brother was okay.

“Let me get that food for you,” Stellan said before he walked away and headed to the small office on the other side of the sickbay.

As Jordan pulled his blanket further over him, he noticed Alfie slowly waking up. Alfie appeared shocked at seeing Jordan sitting up.

“Hey, you’re awake!” Alfie said as he jumped out of his seat, waking Scott up.

Alfie quickly pulled Jordan into him with a tight hug before pulling back a bit and smiling more. He kissed him briefly on the lips. “I’m so pleased you’re back with us.”

“Me too,” Jordan answered, sharing the smile Alfie had. He looked over at Scott and smirked at him.

“It’s good to see you alive again, Jord,” Scott said sincerely. His eyes didn’t give anything away. 

After letting go of him, Alfie gently shoved Scott. “This big ole oaf has kept me company here when Will wasn’t chasing us out.”

Scott shrugged his shoulders. “You guys are my friends, I wanted to be here for you.” He gave a reassuring look at Jordan. He didn’t need to say it. His body language showed Jordan that he hadn’t told Alfie anything.

“Did you know that Scott is a pretty good pillow?” Alfie asked Jordan as he turned back to him.

Jordan bit his lip and shook his head. “No, I didn’t,” He lied. Of course, he knew how it felt to be in Scott’s arms. Instant guilt washed over him. 

Scott blushed at that remark and tried to deflect it. “Yeah, but I didn’t know this one drooled in his sleep.”

“I said I was sorry and would replicate you a new sweater,” Alfie responded, still keeping his innocent, friendly tone.

Feeling uncomfortable with what they were talking about, Jordan changed the subject. “So get me up to speed, what did I miss?”

Scott joined in straight away and pointed towards Alfie. “This guy saved the ship, got a commendation from the captain and now has a best friend in Commander Askew.”

“Oh, Alf, that’s amazing, well done!” Jordan said proudly. 

Alfie shrugged his shoulders. “You eject a warp core, drag a superior out of danger, and you’re a hero! Who would know?” He then perched himself on Jordan’s biobed; he took his hand into his. “I’m so pleased you’re awake.”

“Me too,” Jordan grasped back.

Scott rubbed the back of his head. “Listen, I’m going to give you two some privacy and let the others know the news about Sleeping Beauty,” He looked at Jordan. “Take it easy, Jord.”

“Thanks, Scott, I will,” Jordan replied, trying not to give anything away.

As Scott walked away, Alfie called after him. “Scott, thanks again for everything.”

Scott just turned around, giving a thumbs up and a fleeting smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes before walking toward the exit.

Once he was gone, Alfie turned his attention back to Jordan. “So, I’ve missed you so much.”

“I noticed,” Jordan said with a chuckle. “I’m back and I’m okay.”

“Good, because you can’t leave me ever again.”

Swallowing hard, Jordan just nodded. He pushed the guilt down further and tried to focus on the moment he was having with Alfie. However, he couldn’t stop thinking about the sad expression he saw plastered across Scott’s face. 

Rakosa V, Rakosa system, Nacene Reach, Delta Quadrant

Walking through the atrium of the main government building, Cambil was struggling to find a positive outcome in her final conversation with First Minister Bennan.

“This entire experience has been challenging for many, including my people. Nevertheless, it has shown my people that keeping to ourselves will not improve our lives,” Bennan remarked as they approached a bright white marble carved bench. He gestured for them both to sit down.

“What do you mean by that?” Cambil asked, intrigued by his line of thought. “We just spoke about the fact that our coalition has ended. The hope had been that it would continue and that everyone could see the benefits of long-term peaceful cooperation with one another.”

As the two of them sat down, Bennan smiled at her and gave Cambil his answer. “For almost thirty years now, we’ve not ventured far enough. Instead, we kept to ourselves, building our world inspired by the sentiments left by Admiral Janeway and her crew. Now I think it’s time we continue what she started and take further steps.”

“I really hope you do,” Cambil said, happier to hear such rhetoric. 

“Your people will always be welcomed here on Rakosa,” Bennan stated. “And our diplomatic efforts have not gone unanswered. A group of Trabe has asked us if they could stay with us. One of our nearby colonies has an uninhabited moon that we will use to give them a new home. We will set up a joint settlement where we can share in each other’s cultures. Peaceful cooperation.”

“It’s a good place to start from,” Cambil said, her mood changing at hearing that news. 

“The Kazon lost quite a few ships in that battle, so they’re not going to be much of a threat to our joint efforts,” Bennan remarked. “Plus, we’re still going to keep working with the Talaxians and Haakonians. We’ve got relief convoys preparing to head to their territory. Hopefully, we’ll make a difference there. We’ve even agreed to host a summit for them to continue talking about the future of their people.”

Cambil’s grin got wider. “If we can do anything to help, you know we will.”

“I appreciate it, Captain, I do, but with the Pralor and Cravic, most likely to return to their infighting, the Kazon resuming hostilities with everyone else, we just feel we could find a way to ease the unnecessary tension that has existed in this region for too long now,” Bennan said. “The trade routes we could establish between our people and others could make a difference in long-lasting peace.”

“It seems I was wrong,” Cambil admitted. “I genuinely thought seeing the end of the coalition would remove all the hard work we built here.”

Shaking his head, Bennan disagreed with the captain. “Far from it,” He said confidently. “It will take time, there’s no easy fix with any of this. But small steps can make a difference.”

“So the coalition may have collapsed, but its hope remains.”

“You and your people have given us all a taste of what it could be like,” Bennan agreed. “I can’t see why anyone wouldn’t want to try another mouthful of it?”

“First Minister, I couldn’t put it any better myself,” Cambil agreed, her smile now prominent. Perhaps things would get better in this part of the Delta Quadrant. She prayed that the Prophets would shine on these people. 

Only time would tell. 

USS Destiny (NCC-92600), Nacene Reach, Delta Quadrant

The chime went off, and Patterson answered swiftly, “Come in”, without looking up from her desktop holographic console. 

Pharah stepped in, a PADD in her hands, and walked across the small distance from the door to be in front of the captain’s desk. “Latest status report, Captain.”

Stopping her work, Patterson looked up at her first officer and took the device out of her hands. “Is there Anything I should be aware of?” she asked as she started to skim its contents.

“Most repairs are complete, final checks are underway now, and Lieutenant D’Varnee has been released from sickbay.”

“That’s good to hear,” Patterson replied as she came to the end of the report and looked up at the Andorian woman. “Anything else, commander?”

Hesitating at first, Pharah was about to answer immediately, but she took a breath before speaking. “Permission to speak freely, ma’am?”

Nodding at her, Patterson gave Pharah her permission. “Go ahead.”

“Since the battle ended, some of us have noticed you’ve withdrawn your presence,” Pharah shared. “I know you can command the ship from any area on the ship, ma’am, and that’s your prerogative. I’m just worried.”

Patterson placed the PADD on her desk, pushed herself up, picked up the mug of coffee she had been drinking, and made her way over to the two long viewports. She considered Pharah’s words carefully before she replied. “Would you be satisfied with I’m just catching up on some reading of status reports and intelligence briefings about the Vaadwaur from home?” She paused and looked over her shoulder at her first officer. “I’ve just needed some time to consider some things, Commander.”

Intrigued by her remarks, Pharah placed her hands behind her back. “And have you considered them?” 

Patterson nodded as she slowly turned back to look at her. “I think I have.”

“And anything of interest?”

Shrugging, Patterson then crossed her arms against her chest. “I can’t quite put my finger on it. Whether it’s my gut instinct or some other feeling, but the more I reflect on what’s happened to us, to the galaxy, the more I can’t help but think that he knew.”

Wanting clarity on her words, Pharah took one step closer to her superior. “You mean Captain Marshall-Bennet?”

Nodding, Patterson looked back out at the starfield. Hoping that her answers were out there. “I am certain that after he had transformed, somehow he knew what would happen and moved us here to make a difference. He kept speaking about being able to see things, and I’m sure he saw what was on the horizon with the Vaadwaur and transported us to the Nacene Reach to help stop them and save so many.”

“That’s not very Starfleet of him,” Pharah declared. “Breaking the Prime Directive in interfering!”

Patterson chuckled, “Zack was always willing to help those in need. Whatever the cost.”

“Well, I would say then his mission was achieved,” Pharah stated. 

Nodding in agreement, Patterson dropped her arms and walked towards her first officer. “You’re right, and it’s time we moved on.”

“Aye, ma’am.” Pharah approved with a smirk. “I’m pleased to hear that.”

Patterson grinned back. Eager to get on with her work and come out of this slum, she had recently felt over her former mentor, commanding officer and friend. A sense of relief washed over her. She had achieved what he wanted; she was sure of it. Patterson knew she had to move on now. It’s what was needed. It’s what he would have wanted. “So, Number One, what needs our full attention?” 

“Commander Johren wants to demonstrate the upgrades he wants to make to the shield grid,” Pharah shared.

“Lead the way!” Patterson insisted. She had to get back out into her ship and crew and show them she was their captain and this was her ship.

USS Odyssey (NCC-80000), Nacene Reach, Delta Quadrant

“Is this going to be another thrilling briefing?” Krabreii stated with sarcasm as she settled into her seat at the conference table.

“The commodore is just finishing reviewing the recent datastream from Deep Space Nineteen,” Duncan told her and the others as he slid into his chair. 

“Good news or bad news?” Reyas asked, the concern was clearly stitched into her tone. 

Duncan shrugged his shoulders. “Not sure,” He admitted. “However, with Horatio and Bexa completing their diplomatic efforts with the Rakosans and Vidiians, I hope whatever Admiral Jaret has sent us does not dampen the mood around here.”

Banfield chuckled as she got herself comfortable in her chair. “You’re being optimistic again, Max,” She playfully warned him. She turned to Krabreii. “How did it go with the Haakonians you escorted back?”

Krabreii, who had got herself a mug of raktijino, shrugged her shoulders before blowing on the mug to cool it down. “General Stinan is a cold-stone faced bitch, but a bitch who gets things done. She barely said three words when we arrived in orbit around her homeworld. Instead, she just thanked us, leaving us to depart quickly. Hence why I’m here.”

“The Talaxians were the same,” Reyas added. “Eager to return and rebuild what they’ve lost and consider what they’ve gained.”

“I just hope those two don’t ignite another war,” Duncan sighed.

“Hopefully not,” Banfield said.

The doors to the conference room then opened. McCallister stepped in and headed to the top end of the table. “Thank you all for waiting for me,” he said as he sat.

“So, boss, do tell us, what did the admiral share?” Krabreii asked the moment he pulled himself into the table.

McCallister sighed. “It’s not looking good back home,” He answered flatly. “The Vaadwaur did some significant damage, just like they did out here. Everyone is licking their wounds.”

The room fell silent. It was almost as if all the captains knew what this meant.

“When do we leave?” Banfield asked. Everyone else was thinking it, so she just took the step forward to ask it before Krabreii did.

“We’re not leaving,” McCallister responded.

Surprised to hear that, Duncan looked at McCallister. “What do you mean we’re not going?”

“Starfleet gave me the choice on whether or not I want us to remain here or go home,” McCallister shared. “I decided we should stay to monitor and support those who require it here in the Nacene Reach.”

Duncan was still getting over the shock of hearing that. All of them, the commodore included, had thought they would all be ordered to return home. “Has Starfleet got enough resources back home to help with the recovery and be able to keep us out here? And are they happy with that decision?”  

McCallister simply nodded. “They do and they are. More than anything else, they agree with me that having us nearby, in case the Vaadwaur or others decide to take advantage of the situation, is critical to the Federation’s security and for galactic peace.”

Clearing her throat, Krabreii sat up straight. “Well, none of us were expecting that, but all I can say is that it’s finally good to hear Starfleet Command is getting how important our work is. I’m all for exploring this part of the Delta Quadrant.”

“My thoughts, too, Mo’Lee,” McCallister said, smirking at hearing such sentiments from Krabreii. “And Admiral Janeway sends her best and congratulations on not setting the Delta Quadrant up in flames. Vice Admiral Jaret tells me she is highly impressed with what we and Constellation Squadron have achieved.”

“Will Fleet Captain Taes stay with us?” Reyas asked.

“I need to speak with her first about that, but again, the choice is hers. I know she and her ships are still helping some of those ships that joined us in the battle with repairs,” McCallister answered his wife. “We’ll see what she decides. Until then, we’ll continue with our repairs and patrolling this area of space to ensure everything remains quiet for now.” 

“So, back to exploring?” Duncan checked one more time.

“Back to exploring, Max,” McCallister confirmed with a nod. He looked back at the others. “Thank you, everyone, dismissed.”

As everyone got up, Reyas walked over to her husband at the head of the table. “I got a message from Theo and Henri. It seems Cestus is fine. They send their regards and love.”

“That’s good to hear,” McCallister said. “Have you spoken to Alfie?”

She shook her head. “Not yet, but Max mentioned that Jordan woke up earlier. He said Alfie is with him.”

“I’m glad to hear that,” McCallister sighed as he rubbed his forehead. 

Reyas sat on the table’s edge and placed his hands in hers. “Dinner tonight?”

Glad to not be thinking about galactic politics for one moment; instead, being with his wife was precisely what McCallister needed. 

He smiled up at Reyas and answered her simply. “I thought you’d never ask.”