Posted by Captain Alex Becket (Commanding Officer) in New XO

Posted by Lieutenant Commander Dr. Charlotte Mackenzie Kelley (Executive Officer/Number One) in New XO

Posted by Captain Alex Becket (Commanding Officer) in New XO
Posted by… suppressed (5) by the Post Ghost! 👻
Commander Charlotte Kelley stepped through the bridge turbolift doors precisely at 0700 hours.

Her new command-red uniform was immaculate, the four solid pips on her collar catching the bridge lighting as she emerged onto the command deck for the first time as Executive Officer of the USS Arkangel.

She paused only long enough to survey the room.

Hazel eyes moved methodically from station to station.

Operations.

Conn.

Tactical.

Science.

No emotion. No hesitation. No uncertainty.

Assessment complete.

Kelley folded her hands behind her back and moved forward at a measured pace toward the center of the bridge.

“Commander Charlotte Kelley reporting for duty as Executive Officer.”

Her voice was calm, professional, and carried easily across the bridge without being raised.

She stopped beside the command well and looked around once more.

“The standards aboard this vessel will remain exactly where they belong.”

Her gaze settled briefly on the various duty stations.

“Professional.”

A beat.

“Efficient.”

Another.

“Prepared.”

She straightened slightly.

“My expectations are simple. Know your jobs. Perform your duties. Take care of your shipmates.”

Her expression never changed.

“If a crisis occurs, I expect every officer aboard this vessel to be ready before the crisis begins.”

Kelley glanced toward the viewscreen, watching the stars drifting beyond.

“Preparation saves lives.”

Her hands remained clasped behind her back.

“That principle guided me as a physician.”

She turned her attention back toward the bridge.

“It will guide me as your Executive Officer.”

A brief pause.

“Carry on.”

Commander Dr. Charlotte M. Kelley
XO USS ARK ANGEL

Becket turned around and noticed that his new first officer had arrived. “Welcome back aboard Cmdr. How was the trip back?” He asked.

Captain Alex Becket
Commanding Officer
U.S.S. Ark Angel

Thank you, Sir. The trip was outstanding; it is good to be back aboard the Ark Angel, Captain.

Commander Dr. Charlotte M. Kelley
XO USS ARK ANGEL

He smiled and nodded. “Of course, number one. I know the whole change in positioning must have taken a bit of a toll, as it’s now going from being a medical officer to command. But it’s always good to have you back like always.” He smiled again.

Captain Alex Becket
Commanding Officer
U.S.S. Ark Angel

Returning the smile, of course, Captain. The change is different, and I look forward to the challenge, sir. And it is good to be back Captain.

Commander Dr. Charlotte M. Kelley
XO USS ARK ANGEL

“Very good. Your seat is right here next to me. At least for a little bit longer.” He said looking at her guiding her to her seat.

Captain Alex Becket
Commanding Officer
U.S.S. Ark Angel

Commander Charlotte Kelley gave a brief nod, her expression unchanged.

“Understood, Captain.”

She stepped forward without hesitation, moving with controlled precision as she crossed to the designated XO station beside the command chair.

Her hand brushed lightly over the console as she seated herself—more assessment than familiarity—eyes already scanning readouts across the bridge systems as they came alive under her authorization profile.

Once settled, she adjusted her posture into a straight, disciplined sit, shoulders squared, attention forward.

“Position acknowledged,” she said calmly, almost to herself.

Her gaze flicked across the bridge once more—conn, tactical, operations—registering each station in sequence.

Then she tapped the console once, bringing up crew manifests and current duty rotations.

“I will be reviewing department reports beginning immediately,” she added evenly. “Bridge staff may proceed with standard operations.”

A pause.

Her tone remained steady, professional, and absolute.

“I expect clear communication and uninterrupted workflow.”

Her eyes returned to a forward view.

“No deviations unless necessary.”

She went still after that—fully present, fully engaged—already working.

Commander Dr. Charlotte M. Kelley
XO USS ARK ANGEL

He smiled as he knew that she was going to be a much better fit for the XO position. However, he was wondering who was to replace him. As he knows that it’ll be a few hours of command. He heard that the new CO is going to be a female Vulcan. He read up on her record and he is very impressed. So he is going to be happy to hand over the command to someone else.

Captain Alex Becket
Commanding Officer
U.S.S. Ark Angel

Indeed Captain and Vulcan you say how fascinating she’ll be a welcome addition to the crew though sadly enough your departure Captain Becket will be a loss of the ship’s soul be hopefully your future endeavors will be enlightening sir.

Commander Dr. Charlotte M. Kelley
XO USS ARK ANGEL