Magenta could not believe that Admiral Laree and Admiral Coren left for Betazed without her. She thought they were going to build a station so she enrolled in the 2 week Lieutenant Course, hoping to land a position in the Omega Academy with the hope of becoming a ranking officer.
Magenta was also mortified to learn that she would not be able to stay in the hotel beyond the Tuesday because she had not booked the rooms beyond the funeral. Magenta knocked on Nicole's door. She needed a couch to sleep on. Nicole was only too happy to oblige.
Magenta stayed on her couch and played with Brenna in the evenings while Nicole cleaned up the mess she had made by withdrawing after Orchid's death. Nicole even helped Magenta with the course materials to ensure that she would be promoted at the end of the 2 weeks. She deserved it.
The girls would often be up late laughing as Nicole told stories about her promotion. Magenta went to class and Nicole went to work. Magenta came home with a PADD. She handed it to Nicole, "Am I a Lieutenant or Lieutenant Junior Grade or for Betazoid's sake, just an ensign?"
Nicole picked up the PADD, "I can't open this. Its thumb print encrypted."
Magenta tapped it with her thumb and then covered her head. Nicole looked at the PADD. She smiled, "Congratulations, Lt. Magenta Coren."
Magenta started jumping up and down and she hugged Nicole. The girls stayed up late, even little Brenna jumping around and laughing. It was a perfect evening. It was something Nicole thought she would never have again.
In the morning, Magenta was getting ready for the ceremony. She was in her uniform and she was looking in the mirror when she walked out. She started to cry. Nicole looked at her, "Why are you crying?"
"My uncle and Admiral Laree have left for Betazoid. Who is going to see this now?", Magenta looked down at her uniform.
Nicole smiled, "I'd come for you."
Magenta hugged Nicole, "Thank you."
Posted by:
Vice Admiral Nicole Branson
Star Fleet Executive Officer
Phoenix Colony
Phoenix Fleet
