Change of Command
© 2025 by Walter Reimer

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Station personnel were aboard the Bōank, tending to the heavy cruiser while the entire crew, clad in their turquoise formal uniforms, disembarked and headed for one of J’Shavar Base’s larger auditoriums.  As they entered and formed up by division, they faced a larger-than-life hologram of the Sovereign in his dark blue Supreme Marshal’s uniform.
Varan was also in her formal uniform, her two Battle Honors awards affixed to the right side of her chest and standing alone out in front of the eight hundred shlani she commanded.  All the documentation required had been completed and accepted by Admiral k’Daridh.
Admiral k’Daridh faced her as the commander of the cruiser force and Varan’s immediate superior officer; she was accompanied by the base’s commander, and a slightly taller than average brown-furred kam bearing a captain’s rank.
He was her replacement, Koron l’Tadh.  He was a capable officer, having commanded several cruisers smaller than the Bōank.
Vesan led the subadmiral and the captain toward Varan, stopping ten paces away and turning to face the Emperor’s likeness.  “In the name of the Sovereign,” Vesan said, and all bowed, “and by order of the Commander for the Fleet Department, Captain Varan g’Raf is commanded to relinquish her post as Shipmaster of the Azrin Zartiein Berāth 94661, Bōank, and give her responsibilities for ship and personnel to Captain Koron l’Tadh effective immediately.”  Vesan and Captain l’Tadh turned and faced Varan.
“I relinquish my post and responsibilities willingly, and by order,” Varan said, stepping forward as l’Tadh followed suit, the two facing each other.  She saluted, left hand to right chest to display her rank flash.  “I cede command of the AZB 94661 to you, Captain.”
L’Tadh saluted.  “I accept the burden of responsibility willingly, Captain.”  The two dropped their salute, bowed to each other, and exchanged places, l’Tadh facing the crew while Varan moved to stand alongside Vesan.
K’Daridh led Varan and the base commander out of the auditorium as the crew cheered and broke ranks to greet and speak with their new commander.
Over glasses of henal in her office later, Vesan asked, “Sad at leaving your ship, Varan?”
“Yes, I am,” Varan said, studying the cloudy pink beer before taking a sip.  “They are a good crew, and it’s a good ship.  I’ll miss them,” and she looked across the desk at Vesan, “but I have something new to look forward to, with the prospect of greater opportunities.”
“And responsibilities,” Vesan added.  “The higher you go in rank, Varan lir demef, the greater the burden becomes.  Still, I am certain you will do well.”
“Thank you, Vesan.”  She finished her glass and stood up.  “I will return to my quarters.  I’m sure that Gartabin l’Tadh will be done greeting the crew and will be coming here for his command briefing.”
Vesan gestured affirmatively.  “Your transportation will be arriving tomorrow.  May I join you in your quarters for lastmeal tonight?”
Varan smiled.  “I’d be honored, Vesan.”