New Marine

Posted on Fri Jun 19th, 2026 @ 8:27am by Captain James Stewart

666 words; about a 3 minute read

Mission: Mission 01 Shakedown Cruise
Location: Captain's R & R Room

=On=
=Captain’s ready room=

James sat behind his desk, going through the latest paperwork that had come through from command with the word that the Churchill was due to have one hundred and forty-four Marines on the new Marine decks, and the new Marine that was due to arrive shortly, and James hoped that they would keep the Marines in line.

Cassandra had left Martha with Hawthorne. With any luck, the star base would survive the encounter. She made her own way towards the ready room of the Churchill. Her uniform was fresh and tidy. It still sported the 95th's pin. She hadn't been able to bring herself to remove it just yet. Her new orders rested in her hand. Her reassignment to this place. She pressed the chime announcing her arrival. Nervous, but optimistic.

“Come,” replied James, as he tidied up his desk, looking at the monitor quickly in case any word of when the ship was due for its trials and checking its systems, and hopefully they did not crash like last time. However, here he was hoping nothing would happen.

Cassandra entered, coming to attention, she saluted her new CO. She made sure to be precise and professional. She wanted to make a good impression not only for herself but on Sommers, who, as she understood it, had recommended her for this position. “Captain Cassandra Mathews reporting in.” She said confidently. More confidently than she really felt. Still.

“At ease, Captain,” replied James, looking over her service jacket. He continued, “ I see from your record here of a glowing recommendation from Captain Sommers on how you maintained the Marines.” Leaning back in the chair, he finished, “If you are wondering why you have the rank of Captain, it is because of the size of the Marines under your Command”

Cassandra moved to the at-ease position. Feet spread slightly apart, hands behind her back. Her blue eyes did not betray the shock of his words. Yes, 144 Marines were a lot. Cassandra, however, had been in charge of twice as many during the incident regarding the USS Cutter. That had, of course, been some years ago, though. “Yes, sir. Thank you, sir.”

Cassandra replied almost automatically. She found herself studying the Captain's face. He was young for his position. Brown eyes that seemed to hold a depth of experience and intelligence. His face was soft and kind even as he attempted to look professional. The laugh lines outnumbered the worry lines. That was always a good thing. His posture suggested a man of self-respect. His dark hair was nearly kept within regulation. Cassandra appreciated that. He gave off the impression of a man worthy of following orders. A man who, while kind in nature, was able to make those hard decisions. Only time would tell if her assessment was correct, however.

James replied, “ Do you feel up to the task, Captain? ”” Posing the question to her as he needed to know if she was up for it after the R& R she had taken, but the report from Somers told him that she could handle herself and that she had proved herself in her duties.

“Aye, sir. You can count on me. I won't let you down.” Cassandra stated and for once she believed it too. Yes, she could do this. Could handle this detachment well and serve this ship and this Captain with honor, courage, and confidence. He could count on her. She wanted to smile. Felt proud of herself. She didn't smile, though that would have been unprofessional.

“Very well, Captain, I want them drilled every two hours in defence protocols before we leave and a full evaluation to choose your Squad leaders,” replied James as he wanted the Best Marines on his ship as well as the best Security detail, as he was going to set a task between the two to keep them on their toes. He finished,” Dismissed,”

Off

Capt James Stewart
CO

Marine Capt Cassandra Matthews
Marine CO

 

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