[BACK POST] Operation Odin's Box 2

Posted on 25 Aug 2024 @ 1:34am by 2nd Lieutenant Melody Hawthorne & Captain Jasmine Somers FCapt & Lieutenant Commander Remington Dodd & Lieutenant Leland Hawksley & Lieutenant Lamia ‘Mia’ Kildare & Lieutenant Vivian Corsair & Captain Mazal Falk & Lieutenant Matthew Thompson & Lieutenant Paul Winchester & Lieutenant JG Tosrol Ze & Lieutenant JG Thex sh'Zoarhi & Lieutenant JG Margeurite "Maggie" LeFebvre & 1st Lieutenant Gavin Ross Dr. & Master Chief Petty Officer Alexi Michelle & Sergeant Major Christopher "Chris" Kildare & Lieutenant Paula Winchester

4,812 words; about a 24 minute read

Mission: General Sim Postings
Location: Starbase 51 - Odin's bar
Timeline: Following Odin's box 1

[ON]

Melody wasn't sure just how she'd been talked into this. Actually yes she did. She was trying to win over second lieutenant Mathews. To warm the women up to her before she and C'Tirr sprung the news of their relationship together. So when Cassandra took on the task of throwing her new CO a surprise party, Melody Hawthorne thought it was a great opportunity to try and bond with the other woman.

Now here she was dressed in a Marine green dress. Greeting and shaking hands with total strangers as she directed them to their decorated tables of gold and greens. Lovely flowered centerpieces adorned each table. Lovely delicate china. Sparkling glasses of crystal. No details had been overlooked. The flags of the Tomcat and the flag 95th rifles flanked the Federation standard behind a podium set up on a raised floor that would later double for a dance floor after refreshments and speeches of good wishes. For those adventurous enough to take advantage of it. A band had been assembled from some of the musically talented in the unit. They had been practicing for a week and sounded rather good.

The meal had been carefully selected so as not to exclude anyone. The menu rested on each plate, along with a small coin next to it. It was seen as a gift of thanks to those in attendance.

Everything was ready and Melody had Davina Winchester to thank for it.

Davina arrived at Odin bar dressed in her Cadet uniform as this was formal attire she waited for her dress uniform to be done, she looked over the place and her design looked better than it had on the PADD, she looked around for Melody and finally spotted her and walked over.

"You look amazing," Melody stated. Watching the young cadet approach.

"Why thank you, Mel," replied Davina looking back at her Friend, she continued" My Mom and aunt and Uncle will be arriving shortly," she knew that her Uncle Paul had issues with Marines in the past, but as for the person he had to give her Props for getting so far up the ladder and hoped someday this would be her.

"That's excellent. They can have one of the tables up front there." She pointed to one of the still-empty tables near the podium. "You go ahead and cover the door, please. Just greet people and point them to a seat if they need it. I'm going to go around and make sure everything is in order and everyone is doing alright." Melody said grabbing some of the printed stack of programs for the occasion. She wanted to make sure everyone was covered. She started by heading to the bar area where a sizable group was beginning to gather.

Ze had been in the Bar beforehand, he wanted to be first on the bill Mazal was his life partner after all, and As always his wingman Hawksley was always by his side "One Romulan Ale Please" he spoke to the bartender "Coming up Lieutenant Ze" the man spoke as he walked over to the replicator, the drink materialized and the bartender pushed it down the bar, Ze tipped his head and smiled as he he held the glass up to him.

Walking over to the bar and taking an open seat, Dodd, dressed in his dress uniform, signaled the bartender and thus got his usual Amaretto Stone Sour with a splash of dark cherry juice added. "How you been Ze?" Dodd asked as he had been in his blind spot so to speak.
-----;

Melody approached the two men. "Are you with the Ninety-fifth party?" She asked. She held out a folded decorated program for them.

"Why, yes we are here on behalf of the Ninety-Five party," Dodd responded.

"Excellent, Here you go." Melody handed both Dodd and Ze one of the programs she carried. "Thank you for coming. When you get a chance please put in your dinner order at one of the tables. If you should have any questions please feel free to ask."

"Thank you, and this is going to be a great surprise," Dodd replied.

To say she was surprised to get an invite to the celebratory dinner would be accurate. But since Alexi had joined Tomcat, she had seen how great something like this was for the morale of the crew. Adjusting her Dress Whites as she entered the room and paused near the door. "Wow," She said and let out a low whistle, "Someone really pulled out the breaks for this." She caught sight of Dodd and Ze at the bar. Not wanting to intrude she made sure to leave lots of room as she too went to the bar to order a soft drink. Staying focused as she figured she could use this to get to know the crew, mostly through observation.

Melody noticed the arrival of the new woman. She walked over with her smile in full display. The dress uniform was a big giveaway and this was one of their guests for the party. "Hello, there. Welcome. Please make sure you put your dinner order in on the PADD at one of the tables when you find a chance." She offered the Marine a program. "My name is Melody and if you need anything please feel free to ask."

Dressed in her Fleet Dress Uniform with a Rifle officer sash and belt, her short hair was neatly combed, her makeup impeccable, at her side was her Cousin Lieutenant Colonel Alexandria Somers, who like Jasmine was in Marine Dress Uniform but as it was 95th Rifle orientated it looked a little different, like Jasmine she also had a white band across the base of her shoulders, her make up was also impeccably done and like Jasmine her slightly longer hair was also neatly combed, and her Sash/belt was also straight, both women stood at the door waiting for one of the designated greeters.

Melody had circled the room. She saw the two finely dressed women at the door and quickly made her way over. "Hello welcome. It's a pleasure to have you in attendance. I'll be happy to show you to a table. Or you can feel free to mingle...if you have any questions please feel free to ask me."

That being said Melody turned and addressed the room in a loud commanding bellow that carried easily over the crowd. "ATTENTION!! OFFICER ON DECK!"

The room full of Marines came to their feet in response and respectfully saluted the Lt Colonel and the Captain as they entered the decorated bar.

Thex had been at the bar sipping from her drink in her dress uniform. Hearing the noise she turned and gave a quick salute.

Maggie had turned up to the bar in a very Maggie outfit. She didn't CARE that the others were in uniforms. THEY were nerds. Besides, she wasn't planning on staying long, and she wasn't planning on leaving alone. She wore a tight, red satin party dress and matching high heels. If anyone said anything, she would play dumb. She was good at that.

Upon completing his salute to the Captain and Lieutenant Colonel, Dodd stepped away from the bar to make his way to a table to review the edible options that were recommended for the party. Then he would find a location in a dim corner to claim for the rest of the evening with perhaps a charming young ginger woman joining up with him but he honestly did not know if Cole was even invited.

"As you were" Jasmine said and both women entered, while Jasmine walked to the Bar Alex walked up to Hawthorne "So Melody is Mazal surprised about this little setup you have done for her, nice by the way?" Colonel Somers asked.

"Oh, this wasn't my idea. Cassandra was the one behind this. I don't think Falk knows about it yet." Melody said with a chuckle. "It's something of a surprise for her friend Captain Falk as I'm to understand. I'm just helping out." The doctor explained.

Alex smiled in response and she saw something out of the corner of her eye and looked up at a new arrival.

Dr. Corsair then entered the room and noticed the XO. She quickly and pleasantly made her way over to see him. As she approached him, "Commander, I am happy to see you here. I was hoping to approach you some other time but I found something I wanted to discuss more with you. Would we be able to set up a time after the party in the next day or so?"

"Well, hello doctor, don't you look charming in the dress uniform, I personally wish they were not necessary at any time," Dodd added as his seg-way to the conversation. "You seem super excited about what you want to talk about. Let's see what we can do to talk tomorrow. Now, get a drink and let loose, that is an order."

"Sir, Thank you. I look forward to our talk." Corsair replied. "I will go get a drink and some hoer 'devours. I will let loose and you will know it." She added with a smirk.

Alex gave the interaction between the First Officer and the new arrival with a raised eyebrow.

-------

The small radio on Melodies' hip crackled to life. Cassandra's voice came over the Comm a bit breathy and quick. The words were unmistakable, however. =/\= Parcel in route it's shown time 5 minutes. Go time.=/\=

Melody turned to the room once again. This time she turned on a microphone. Her elegant voice rang amplified over the crowd. "Ladies and gentlemen, comrades and family. Our guest of honor will be arriving shortly. Please make your way to a table and clear the way to the podium quickly. Thank you in advance for your cooperation in this matter."

The band had begun to tune instruments and take their seats near the raised dais. Bottles of champagne had begun being set on tables to fill glasses as people involved in the festivities moved to take their places and others moved to find themselves seats.

The doors flew open. Cassandra moved to the side so that Hawksley could escort Mazal into the decorated bar beyond. Full of good friends and family. It was a warm atmosphere. Her arrival was announced by a huge cry.

"Surprise!" That roared from many of those gathered. Then the honor guard conducted the band to play a celebratory tune as Cassandra the master of ceremonies for the evening slipped into her dress uniform jacket.

Leland simply grinned. He was enjoying every moment of watching Captain Falk take in the crew. The celebration and the gratitude were far from coming. Hawk felt a surge of happiness and excitement through his body as he cheered for his dearest friend, Mazal. It was a sight of pure admiration and kindness by the crew, working together with Matthews.

Entering the room Kildare approached Falk "Congratulations Captain, what you got was well deserved" he said holding out his hand.

"Well thank you." her face heating up once more.

Lamia was at her husband’s side, she stepped up offering Mazal a warm smile and a brief hug of congratulations. “You deserve this Mazal, enjoy it.”

Chris standing next to his wife, also congratulated Falk, "congratulations Captain, well deserved" Chris Kildare said with a smile.

"Uh thank you."said Mazal with a bit of a smile, in response to Chris's congratulations.

Maggie smiled and clapped with the others. It was highlighting for her that she really needed to get to know the others a bit more...she felt a little bit out of place.

--------;

After that the pair moved over to a place where they can get something to drink, Chris got a Mineral water for his wife "here you go, sorry it is not alcohol, but a woman in your condition should avoid booze" he said and then leaned over and quietly spoke "Captain Falk is not one for surprises, but she is taking this well" he said to Lamia.

Lamia nodded as she took a sip of the mineral water before responding. “She’s completely in shock and thoroughly embarrassed, but she’s doing well hiding it.”

"True, but she is not one for shindigs like this, but I agree she is handling it well all things considered" Chris responded.

Beyond the door, they stood on a carpeted path. It was flanked on both sides by members of the 95th in full-dress uniform. They saluted Captain Falk as a light dusting of confetti began to drift down from above. The path led to a podium bearing the crest of the 95th and lovely golden and silver flowers. Behind was the Federation standard and the flag of the 95th. A banner dropped down, as it unravelled it said In large golden letters. "Congratulations Captain Mazal Falk!" Cassandra looked to her Captain and saluted as well. "On behalf of the men and women of the 95th regiment. It is my honor to invite you to a celebration of your exemplary achievements, and appointment to the position of Commanding Officer of this proud unit. As well as to recognize and honor your appointment to the second officer of the finest ship the Federation has ever stitched together the UFS Tomcat. We thank you Captain Mazal Falk for your outstanding service."

Gobsmacked would be a good word to describe Falk's current state of mind. There she was, in the centre, having attention zeroed in on her. oO say something Mazal Oo "Uh hi, this is quite the surprise. Thank you!" she most certainly seemed to be a little bit uncomfortable having all of this attention. It was okay when she did performances but this? "I am touched by this."

Dodd felt the emotions Falk had as she reacted to the room full of her comrades and fellow crew. He knew that she literally had no idea this was happening. Dodd was proud of her and glad that she was getting the recognition from her crewmates.

"Uh so... hopefully you are not wanting a speech." Mazal gave a light laugh. "and I am feeling a bit maybe underdressed?" looking at those who were in their dress uniforms. "Anyway, shall we get this party started?"

"Don't worry," Cassandra said, "The speech this evening is on me. You go ahead and get comfortable." That said Cassandra turned and putting the honor guard at ease she headed to the podium. Where Melody Hawthorne had set up the microphone.

"Ladies and gentlemen, officers and enlisted I want to start off by thanking you for joining us in this evening's celebration. Of one of Starfleets most shining stars." Cassandras
blue eyes went to Mazal.

“Captain Falk”, Cassandra began, her voice clear and steady.

“I stand before you today not only as a fellow Marine but as a friend who has watched you grow and evolve into the exceptional leader that you are today. Your promotion to Commanding Officer of the 95th Marines and Second Executive Officer of the Tomcat is a testament to your unwavering dedication and your unparalleled skills which are far too numerous to be listed here tonight.”

Cassandra paused, her words hanging in the air as she searched for the right way to express her feelings. “I have seen you lead our troops into battle with courage and fortitude, always putting the safety and well-being of your team above all else. Your strength and resilience in the face of adversity have inspired us all, and your unwavering commitment to the ideals of the Federation has earned you the respect and admiration of everyone who has had the privilege of serving under your command.”

A murmur of agreement rippled through the assembly as Cassandra spoke, her words echoing the sentiments of a great many of the crew.

“But it is not just your leadership skills that set you apart, Captain Falk,” Cassandra continued. “It is your compassion, your integrity, and your unwavering sense of duty. You have always been there for your comrades, offering support and guidance when needed, and leading by example in everything you do. You are a shining beacon of hope in a galaxy filled with darkness, and I am honoured to call you not only my commanding officer but my friend. Thank you.”

Jasmine and Alex simply applauded.

"I would now like to open the floor to anyone else who might have anything else to be said." Cassandra moved off the stage.

Lieutenant Colonel Somers got up on stage "Silence please people" she said "I have not known Captain Falk that long or that well but in the times I commanded the Tomcat I found her to be a very capable officer and leader, and I can honestly say that Fleet Captain Somers does not elevate an Officer to the position of Second Officer without good reason and if this is done it shows she has great respect for that person and the trust, so congratulations on the appointment Captain Falk, if you are anything like me you will find a steep learning curve in command, we all know commanding troops on the ground is one thing, as a Marine we are trained to accept the lives of other Marines under our command, but to be placed in a position as Second Officer on a Starship is another level entirely" Alex paused.

She signalled for a server who brought a spirit glass with some brown liquid in it she held it up "To Mazal Falk" she said holding the glass up in a toast.

All in the room held up their glasses in a toast to Falk.

Mazal's face was matching her dress, feeling a little bit overwhelmed in this salute for her.

"On a final note, I have acquired real alcohol, enough for tonight's party, we have Whiskey, Rum, Brandy, Andorian Ale, Bloodwine, Some Vulcan brew with a name I cannot pronounce, Bajoran Spring Wine and Vodka, this is all I could get on short notice if there are any other real drinks behind the bar they belong to the bartender who acquired them" Somers said and stepped down from the stage and rejoined Jasmine.

Both women were not surprised that none of the crew actually approached them Alex looked at Jasmine "Do we scare them?" Alex asked, "Speak for yourself Cous, your own husband tends to excuse himself when you get mad!" Jasmine said taking a sip of her Bajoran Spring Wine.

Leland smiled at Alex and Jasmine Somers catching her comment as he walked up to the two. “Afraid. No. Why would anyone be afraid of two Somers in one room?” Leland winked.

Hawksley turned around looking at the room. He spotted Captain Falk. “Excuse me, Colonel, Alex.” Leland made his way through the crowd as he dodged various conversations, tables, and servers.

“Captain Falk. Captain.” Hawksley didn’t want to break into a conversation she already was having; that would be rude of him. Since the first time he had met Falk on that Starbase get-together after an extended mission, Leland felt a strong kinship. Anything involving Mazal perked up his attention.

Hawk's smile was kind and endearing, displaying genuine warmth and admiration. His eyes crinkled at the corners, adding a touch of playfulness to his expression. His face radiated a sincerity, showing welcome and valued friendship. His smile spoke volumes of his approachable and compassionate nature, saying, "I'm here to support you, Captain, every step of the way."

A gentle smile and a quick embrace for Leland. "Hi, sorry I am a bit overwhelmed right now, not really used to this sort of thing, you know?" a brief glance of almost panic, but it went away. "Why don't we have a quiet chat very soon? Sound good before I head off on the upcoming mission?"

Leland gave a knowing nod. "I understand."

1st Lieutenant Gavin Ross was an extreme newbie on the USS Tomcat. Ross felt it amusing to see such a well-orchestrated event. As a Medic with the 95th Regimental Marines, he was proud to have Captain Falk as his XO.

Looking around, he didn’t know too many other Marines and Officers. He had only arrived a few weeks ago. He knew Thomas, Cassandra, Corsair, and other faces, yet he felt a little out of place.

When nobody was looking, he turned to the bar and reached for a classic can of beer, cracking it open, he then chugged it behind the dressage curtains and flags. “Oh boy… Oh boy…” The Medic remembered to calm himself down; swallowing and tugging at his dress uniform, he looked at his silver watch. Gav placed a smile on his face, calm, collected, and unassuming as he made his way out into the crowd and tried to break into some conversations to meet some new friends. Now seemed like the perfect time.

Maggie watched the new guy move to the bar. "Might wanna slow down there," she said, with a smile. "Someone will notice," she said. They always DID. Or at least, they noticed with HER. She wasn't sure if it was because it was her or because she looked like THIS but hey, attention was attention and she'd take it where she could. "You're new here," she said. "Lt. Maggie LeFebvre. Who are you?" She flirted.

Gavin couldn't help but be drawn to Maggie's charismatic presence as she approached him at the bar. He chuckled as she warned him about not drawing too much attention to himself.

"Thanks for the advice, Lt. LeFebvre," he replied, flashing her a playful grin. She was cute. "But don't you worry, I know how to handle myself."

He extended his hand to shake hers, introducing himself. "I'm 2nd Lieutenant Gavin Ross, but you can call me Gavin. It's a pleasure to meet you, Maggie."

Gavin couldn't resist the urge to flirt back, matching Maggie's playful tone. With a mischievous glint in his eyes, he suggested, "Now, if you need a partner to conquer that upcoming Marine Obstacle Course, I'd be more than happy to team up. With your charm and my skills, we'd be an unstoppable force. What do you say, Maggie?" Gavin lent his eyes time to linger on LeFebvre.

-----;

Vivian then moved to the bar once again and got herself some Bajoran Spring Wine as she always enjoyed that beverage and would never turn it down if it was available in the real form.

Mazal decided she was going to get herself a drink, stopping by the two women she respected a great deal. " Captain, Colonel, I think I need a stiff drink right now. This is a little bit unexpected." going misty-eyed at the words that had been spoken of her.

Both women looked at Mazal "Make the most of it Mazal, because Command is not an easy road, but in the end, while you will make mistakes, it will be a grand experience" the Colonel responded.

"I am not serving to get accolades or a party I am here to serve and do the best I can." Mazal raised her glass and took a sip.

"Still you would be wise to heed what I say Mazal and no marine is in it for accolades, well none I know" Alex said with a smile.

Gavin, the marine medic, approached the newly promoted Captain Falk at her promotion party with quiet confidence. Dressed in his crisp uniform, he extended a hand and greeted her with a warm smile, "Congratulations, Captain Falk. I've heard a lot about your exceptional leadership skills, and I must say, it's an honor to meet you."

"The honor is all mine." A look around the room at those who were celebrating her rise in position, she smiled and yet Mazal was making a plan to escape after a short time. Raising her glass said. "This may have been a celebration for me, however, I salute all those here and are part of the crew for the fine work you all have done. I am glad to be a part of this crew and ship. Thank you. And I am very touched by your words" Draining her glass she then stated. "Consider this also to be a celebration of all of you."

Downing another glass that had been given to her, wiping her mouth with the back of her had. "Now if you will all excuse me, I've got a call to make to my family, please enjoy." brushing away a tear that somehow escaped her notice and trickled down her cheek. Giving a wave to those there, Mazal made her exit. She will catch up with Ze and others later, it was in truth time for her to call her family.

Corsair made her way over to see if she could get work with Falk and noticed her attempting to make her way to her family. oO I will get a word with her later as I can see she needs the time to chat with her family. Oo So Corsair then made her way to see what there was available to eat and find a seat to then perhaps meet someone to chat with.

Matt cosied up to the bar and ordered a beer, A simple enough drink after a long day.

Lamia was cautiously avoiding the real alcohol given her pregnancy, one glass probably wouldn’t hurt but then she wasn’t a drinker anyway, she was enjoying the mineral water she had in her glass anyway. She smiled as she looked around, it was good to see people enjoying themselves.

The Chief Petter Officer sat back in her seat quietly observing her crewmates. Alexi knew many of them, but was not really close to anyone in particular. She just liked to see them all enjoying themselves. Sipping her drink as she sat at the end of the bar and seeing them all relaxing and celebrating was nice. And they all deserved to celebrate their wins, large and small.

At that, Maggie took her leave to find something or someone more interesting.

---------;

Paul stood in line to congratulate Falk and had noticed what a good party both Davina and Melody had put on and would put in a recommendation on their Operations work and knew that Paul would get a wicked grin from the ship's second executive Officer. As he approached her he said" Congrats Captain, you deserve this, and for once I knew nothing of what my Neise and her friend were planning."


The party lasted several hours before the last of the group said their goodbyes and left. Cassandra let Melody go for the night. With the help of some volunteers they cleaned the place up with the attention to detail only Marines possed. She paid the proprietor and took a moment to just sit a moment and fix this memory in her mind forever.

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