It was no Enterprise, but it would do for now

[clear-horizons.livejournal.com]

With no layout of the ship to go by, and no escort for now, Picard was winding his own way through the strange living ship, learning and memorizing the hallways and doors, teaching himself where every section led, and what awaited at the end of each corridor. It was difficult work, but it gave the older captain something to do to keep himself occupied while the current command staff began the easy transition between COs.

"Certainly a remarkable ship," Picard remarked, running one hand against a wall curiously. "I've little doubt her crew is equally remarkable, if half of what Captain Bennet says is true."

Comments

[outweightheone.livejournal.com]

"I am not familiar with a Captain Bennet, at least not within Starfleet." Spock remarks, regardless of whom he might be talking to, "Is he in command of this vessel?"

[clear-horizons.livejournal.com]

One eyebrow lifted for just a moment at seeing Spock, but after having met Dr. McCoy and James Kirk (both far younger than Picard remembered them), seeing such a young Spock was of no great surprise. "Yes, she is," Picard replied, "though she's no Starfleet officer, and we are on no Starfleet vessel."

Picard raised his hand, splitting the four digits, two on each side, in a v-shape. "Peace and long life, Spock," he greeted warmly. "I am Captain Jean-Luc Picard, of the USS Enterprise, NCC-1701E."

[outweightheone.livejournal.com]

"I had surmised as much. Starfleet would not allow such aesthetics, or even think to decorate their ships in such a manner as this at all."

Spock blinks once, about as much surprise as he will ever normally demonstrate. After all, Jim had already informed him of Stacy's time transcending capabilities.

"Greetings, Captain. That is an updated model, it is of no surprise that you are unfamiliar to me. Though, it seems, I am not so unfamiliar to you."

[clear-horizons.livejournal.com]

"Yes. You, James Kirk, Mr. Scott and Admir-- Doctor McCoy are all known to me. I and my crew have worked alongside all of you. Not to mention that most of the Enterprise's first five-year mission is required reading in Starfleet Academy anymore."

[outweightheone.livejournal.com]

"Admiral, Captain?" hey, lookie, he gets that eyebrow to raise, "Whilst I respect the Doctor's ability greatly, I had never thought him a candidate for Starfleet Command. I suppose congratulations are in order next time we meet."

[clear-horizons.livejournal.com]

"To be fair, Spock, the Admiral was one hundred and thirty seven years old when he was aboard the Enterprise. And you, Spock, what do you remember before arriving here?"

[outweightheone.livejournal.com]

"My immediate memory was of my quarters. I was off-duty and intended on resting whilst time permitted it. Beyond that, I was serving on the five-year mission you just mentioned."

[clear-horizons.livejournal.com]

"Fascinating, Spock. What do you make of it all?"

[outweightheone.livejournal.com]

"I feel it may be too early to make an accurate judgement," he muses, "Though I can say one thing-- this ship, or this being if that is indeed what it is, is not only capable of collecting other creatures from across the known universe but across time and dimensions also. And yet, it is only now, at this specific spatial and temporal point that we have all been resucitated. I believe that we were brought here for a purpose and that that purpose may well be revealed to us very soon."

[clear-horizons.livejournal.com]

"Stacy did mention a 'Great Purpose'," Picard mused, thinking, "but she was rather tight-lipped concerning the details."

[outweightheone.livejournal.com]

"I should think she need only tell us what is required to complete the mission she plans to set for us. Any surplus information is likely of a more sensitive nature and will remain classified."

Is he a military boy or what?

"If we are ever to learn of this 'Great Purpose,' then there is little cause to wait for it. However, I would recommend learning what we can of this ship and our host before we attempt a more forceful approach."

[clear-horizons.livejournal.com]

"Remind me to invite you to the next staff meeting, Spock. It may prove fruitful for one of your knowledge and talents."

[outweightheone.livejournal.com]

"It would certainly put my mind at ease to acquaint myself with those in charge of the crew here." Spock agrees, "Assuming they already have experience with the ship's capabilities."

[clear-horizons.livejournal.com]

"Much of the major sectors of the ship seem to be off limits for the moment, but perhaps the current senior crew would be able to fill you in on the details."

[outweightheone.livejournal.com]

"I would appreciate it considerably. Perhaps it is best if I seek them out presently, as I could perform my duties more effectively once I have collated all available intel."

[clear-horizons.livejournal.com]

"Excellent," Picard replied.

"Pardon my asking, but what is your current rank, Spock, so I don't make a fool of myself?"

[outweightheone.livejournal.com]

He snaps to attention, "The last rank I held on a Starfleet vessel was Commander. Whilst I cannot fathom exactly how long I have been absent from the Enterprise, I can only assume that I maintain that designation."

[clear-horizons.livejournal.com]

"Well, then, Commander Spock, it is a pleasure to be meeting you again," Picard replied with a wry grin.