D’vash relaxed in the rear compartment of the shuttle delivering him to the USS Atlantis, as well as a few other new transfers. They had made small talk for most of the trip, but now he wanted solitude. He had spent the last few years as the XO of the USS Olympic, and a wild ride it had been. During his time there, the Oly had gone through what, 3-4 captains? He had good relationships with each of them. He had learned from each of them.

The biggest thing he had learned was that a life in command was not for him. Of course, he enjoyed his role as Executive Officer, but it made him realize how much he missed the field. That’s why he requested a transfer to the Atlantis. She was looking for a chief Intel officer and D’vash thought it must be fate that this position was available just as the Oly was being shut down.

Captain Jasar had left the Oly before reaching drydock, so it had been D’vash’s responsibility to make sure all the lights were off. Everyone had left the ship–only he was left. He was surprised when the computer showed one other life sign aboard. A life sign that was located just outside his quarters.

When he reached his quarters, there was no one outside but the door had been left open. When he stepped inside, he was surprised, but happy to see Pretha waiting for him. They had been lovers serving together. Unfortunately, Command decided to send them in to separate directions. He was on his way to the Atlantis, and she was headed to the Manhattan in a security position, as well as a team leader position that was being implemented. An excellent opportunity she couldn’t afford to pass up. So, they spent one last together and in the morning wished each other well and said their goodbyes, hoping it wasn’t the last.

He was shaken out of his memories by the shuttle craft bumping to the surface of the Atlantis’ hangar deck. As he exited, an NE greeted him.

“Welcome aboard, Cmdr. Odinson. Capt. Bordeaux apologizes that was unable to welcome you herself–“

“That’s quite alright, ensign. I know how busy CO”s can get,” D’vash replied.

“Your PAdd has been updated, with your quarters location, itinerary for your check-ins, and duties and responsibilities aboard the Atlantis. All your personal items from the Olympic have arrived and have been delivered to your quarters. There is a crewman standing by to show you the way.”

“Thank you, but that won’t be necessary, I’m sure I can find my way. The Atlantis and Oly were pretty much the same. Please inform the captain that no offense was taken by her absence.”

“Yes, sir.”

With the final reply, D’vash took one final look into space, in the general direction where the Manhattan was and then made his way out of the hangar to start the next chapter of his story. . .

Odinson (CIO)