You did a fine job with those science nerds over the course of this past year, John. Very fine job. Nothing but praise from the lot of them. Well done. His thick English accent had a soothing effect every time he spoke. John remembered him fondly as a young man. His father and the Admiral had gone to the academy together and served side by side for many years before Johns father met an untimely death. Sitting here with him now and listening to him speak brought him back to those simpler times.I was just doing my duty, Sir.Oh come now. You know and I know that there isnt a bloody captain in this entire fleet that wanted that assignment. There isnt a bit of action when you have the lot of them aboard. And on a bloody science mission besides. No, no, you are a real hero for saving all of us from having to do such a duty. And for a year! Bloody hell.He opened up a drawer and pulled out two thick, stubby glasses, and then extracted a bottle of rum. Of course he brought out the rum.I suppose you heard that weve been hard at work getting our first Deep Space Class starship ready to launch this year? he asked as he filled both glasses half full with the amber liquid. He Offered one glass to John who took it with reluctance. He had never been one who liked liquor.Heard shes a beauty. The engine is something of a marvel as well?Damn straight, he said as he downed his first glass in one pull. He filled his glass up half full for round two. Currently our fastest ship will get you to the Wild Space region in twenty years. This buggers going to do it in six months and Id like you to take her out on her maiden voyage.John sat back in shock. The thought of taking out the prototype of the future it was a great honor and one that hundreds of captains in star fleet would give anything for. He certainly wasnt worthy of such an honor. He didnt have nearly the amount of years as everyone else in the fleet. I dont think itd be right to accept, would it? I mean there are some captains whoveBumshnickles! he shouted. Your father was the captain of the first Earth Starship Independence. Its only right that the second to bear her name should have an Avery in the chair.