The Romulan diplomatic vessel had been granted permission to dock. She was returning to Romulus from Earth and had requested a 24 hour stop over to allow the crew some rest and for her quartermaster to take on some fresh supplies for the galley. Airlock passage opened and two Romulan security officers stepped through, glanced around and took up position, one at each side of the hatch.

Three men then emerged through the hatch. On the left there was the Romulan amabassador, dressed in fine, and smart civillian clothing. On the right there was the ship’s captain. His military uniform was smart and pristine and he carried himself with an air of authority and upon emerging from room glanced around.

The third man in the group was a tall, thin human with brushed back blonde hair. A Starfleet officer bearing the rank of Captain. He looked around as if he had seeen a ghost. To Ben, it was almost like stepping back in time.The group had been talking casually making arrangements to meet up at a restaurant for dinner later in the evening. The Romulans joking that they thought Ben would be sick of Romulan food after their journey. The group fell silent as the Captain seemed to be distracted by his thoughts.

As an ensign, Gillespie had been a pilot on the starbase. At the time the Starbase had not had a name and was just an Outpost with a number. The Romulan amabssador had spoken true when he had said the stations refit had been a worthwhile collaboration between the Romulans, the Kllingons and the Federation. Ben remembered reading about the refit project which had been described as a historic venture of peace that would benefit all three peoples. ‘A project that will see the development of a unique cosmopolitan space for commerce and recreation,’ was what they had said. From his memories even some redocartion would brighten the place up and make it feel more welcoming.

There almost seemed to be an unspoken conversation between the Captain and the Ambassador who put a hand on Gillespie’s shoulder. “Ben, you are not your father,” he said in a hushed, but warm voice.

“I know,” Ben replied before putting on a stage smile to hide his feelings for the welcomming party…

-Gillespie

OOC: Anyone who wants to be on the welcoming group, please jump in.

-Jim