"Did you think there would not be consequences, CAPTAIN!", Vincent snapped at John.
John just looked at the floor.
"I know who you are and I know what you represent and damn it, John, I know what you have done for the King's Fleet, but you cannot just do whatever you want. There is a price to pay when the rules are not followed.", Vincent lectured.
"I had no idea.", John solemnly responded.
"F**k, John. It was not just your head, it was MINE on the line.", Vincent shouted at his long time friend.
Only hours earlier, Starfleet Command had voted to remove Admiral Vincent Viceroy as the head of the military arm of the United Federation Planets over the lose of the USS Independence. The Klingons, to match their two faced history, brought forth the vote. The same Klingons who demanded that Starfleet destroy the Independence put forth the motion. Admiral Viceroy was to remove the sub-fleet agreement with the King's Fleet or resign.
All parties knew how crooked this was but it was a very important step politically. Starfleet and the United Federation of Planets had no choice but to distance themselves from the Section 31 incident.
Vincent looked at John, "At least, Admiral Deveniss will be able to maintain the work that I have done."
Through a motion, Vincent himself put forth, Admiral Deveniss of Selay was selected to head Starfleet Command. He had not only served in the King's Fleet and the Phoenix Federation but also the Epsilon Force. His well round skills and long history made him the idea candidate.
"If it is any consolation, the role of King's Fleet Commander in Chief is assuredly yours.", John offered up the small prize.
"I would be most happy to get back on the bridge of the Quest.", John gave a half smile.
"Like hell you will, John. You will take command of the f**king Plato's Academy until you learn the rules!', Vincent shouted.
"Begging your pardon, sir.", Captain Sabrina Madison-Laree could not help but overhear the conversation.
"Captain Warren can assume command of the Providence.", Sabrina looked at Vincent.
"You understand, young lady that you will busted down to Commander. You also understand that Commander S'Nii and Commander Lindsay Viceroy will also be asked to move down in the chain of command. Are you sure you can speak for them?", Vincent was still very stern.
"One of my goals in return to the Providence was to understand the role of humility in being a great officer. I am honored to follow Commander Sabrina Madison-Laree on the Providence.", Commander S'Nii showed tremendous growth in stepping forward.
John looked at the ladies, "I do not deserve your loyalty. I will work very hard to repay you."
"You better!", Vincent was not yet ready to let John off the hook. Bad behavior and bad choices have a price.
Tan looked at Vincent, "It is good to have you back, sir."
"Dear friend, I feel horrible in taking the station from you. I would be honored to have you represent the King's Fleet at Starfleet Command.", Vincent put his hand on Tan's shoulder.
"It would be my honor, Admiral.", Tan smiled.
"You are welcome to the role of Executive Officer on the Station.", Vincent looked at his old friend.
"You already have an Executive Officer, sir.", Tan pointed at Summer.
Summer was shocked but overjoyed. She had hurt Tan by her adulterous relationship with Admiral Illyan Coren. She did not deserve his support.
Summer walked over, "The station command protocols have been switched over, Admiral."
"Thank you, Rear Admiral Vasa.", Vincent looked at Summer.
"Um... Captain.", Summer tentatively corrected.
"No, Summer, I think I would know as the King's Fleet Commander in Chief.", Vincent handed her a small black felt case with the extra pips inside.
Summer started to cry and looked over at Tan holding up the pips.
Tan grinned. He was so proud of her.
Posted by:
Admiral Vincent Viceroy
Commander in Chief
King's Fleet
