“Today is a day all cadets that go through Starfleet Academy aspire to arrive at. The day you all are cut loose from the Academy and ship out into the unknown. Today is the Graduation Ceremony for the class of 3212. I remember when I was a Cadet much like yourselves, I remember looking up and thinking about all the stars in the sky that I get to visit after I graduate. Since then, I have learned that sometimes, the greatest discoveries are much closer than we realize. And sometimes, fate likes to throw curveballs at us. As a lot of you probably know already.” Captain Micheal Burnham addressed the graduating Cadets in the auditorium.
Today was the Graduation Ceremony for Proxima and her crew, and their fellow class of 3212 cadets. Proxima, as she listened to Captain Burnham’s commencement speech, thought back to her four years at Starfleet Academy, starting with her acceptance. Because of her magical abilities, the Federation had at first classified her as a genetically enhanced augment, something that was illegal in the Federation and any who were genetically modified were barred from Starfleet. Fortunately for her, both of her mothers had argued that her magical abilities were part of her DNA right from birth, and NOT genetically modified after the fact, which technically did not make her genetically enhanced at all. This was backed by Equis explaining that magic was a part of a horned pony’s physiology and was completely natural. As such, Starfleet allowed the acceptance to go through. After that, it was smooth sailing. She excelled in her classes, made friends, and–Proxima jumped a bit when she felt a hand on her back, bringing her out of her thoughts. She glanced around and saw that the hand was Sela’s.
She relaxed and smiled. Sela T’Pala, A vulcan she met when they were kids. Proxima had been told that Vulcans weren’t the easiest to make friends with, but despite that, she and Sela hit it off on their second meeting. The two had grown close over the years. Forming a bond that very few could claim to have. They were partners in crime, amigos, Two peas in a pod, the best of friends. Which had come in handy on more than one occasion for the both of them. Really, Proxima couldn’t think of anyone else she’d rather have by her side commanding a starship. Especially now with their new mission.
All that was nice, but there was also another, more primary reason why Sela put her hand where she did. Proxima had found early on that her peers, mainly her friends, would sometimes subconsciously pet her like they would a dog if she was within arms reach. She figured it had to do with her fur and being smaller than most humanoids her age. Not to say it was a problem. She actually welcomed the pets. There was something oddly soothing about being pet.
Her attention was grabbed back to Captain Burnham when she gave the closer to her commencement speech. “And so, as you all forge your own legacies, always remember that no matter how far you go, you will never be alone out there. There will always be like minded people, exploring the stars and seeking out the unknown. Now, Go Boldly where no one has gone before.” She finished.
Admiral Vance took the stage after Burnham’s speech. “Thank you Captain Burnham. Now, with everything that has been said. You cadets have all waited long enough, It is my honor to officially declare all of you fully fledged Starfleet Officers. Congratulations to you all.” He announced.
The gathered crowd, both spectators and newly Minted officers alike, erupted in cheers, pride, accomplishment, and a new sense of purpose sweeping the room. A good day for all.
Meanwhile, in the Equestria’s shuttlebay, Blitzwing, who had decided to stay back while Cliff and Teletran attended the graduation ceremony, walked up to a console and used a pointer thing to tap at it. “Harmony CyberSpark, You there?” He asked.
“I am here Blitzwing.” Harmony responded. “What can I do for you?”
“We got the all clear to embark on our voyage to find Cybertron. Set course for the Derelict.” He told her.
“We’re cleared? But my sensors do not indicate the crew onboard, and I am told the Harmony Core is on its way to be installed.” Harmony responded, confused.
“No it's already been installed and the crew is onboard. Your sensors are just off.” Blitzwing responded.
“...Alright, if you say so Blitzwing.” Harmony responded as she powered up her engines. “Setting course for the Galactic Barrier.” She announced.
Blitzwing meanwhile smirked to himself. Something to be said about easily trusting individuals. He thought. He had grown tired of waiting and decided to convince Harmony to leave now, which turned out to be easier than he expected, with Harmony being more trusting then he expected.
Space: The final frontier. This is the story of the USS Equestria. A ship fresh out of construction, with a crew fresh from the Academy. Together they will embark on a mission of discovery, and evolution. They will explore a strange new frontier, seek out new life and a new civilization, and boldly go farther than anyone has ever gone.
“Personal Log, Stardate 32120518.11: It was a long road getting from there to here, but finally, we made it. We’re fully fledged Starfleet Officers. Sure we were called into service earlier than expected. But we had proven we were ready…I can only hope that the coming voyage will not prove that belief wrong.”
After the Graduation Ceremony. The room had quickly been converted to a reception area, complete with refreshments and tables. At one table, the Command staff of the Equestria raised their glasses. “To our advancement to fully fledged officers.” Shron said.
“And to our new adventure. May we go boldly into the unknown together. As a team.” Proxima added.
“Here here!” The entire staff responded as they all clanked their glasses and took a sip of Romulan Ale. Something that had been legal in the Federation ever since Ni’Var rejoined the Federation.
“Mmm. I’m glad this stuff is legal now.” Yamik commented. “SO good.”
“I tend to prefer Kanar. But that’s just me.” Kasey responded. “Not to say this Ale is bad.”
“Try Andorian Ale sometime.” Shron replied. “That stuff will really get you going.”
“I just might.” Kasey. “After all, we have a long voyage ahead of us.”
“Yeah. When do we leave?” Jack asked.
“As soon as the Harmony Core is installed, I’d say we’ll be ready to go midday tomorrow.” Kasey responded.
“The sooner the better.” Phlox responded. “Anyone else get the sense the Blitzwing might try something?” He asked.
“Try something Doctor?” Sela asked.
“Like, maybe under our nose? I mean he IS a Decepticon according to his insignia, and decepticons are, by the nature described in the debrief, decepticon, manipulating, conniving villains.” He said.
“That is a great description of them Doc.” Said the familiar voice of Cliffjumper. They all turned to see a red muscle car slowly moving towards them.
Risa smiled as she recognized the voice. “Cliffjumper? Is that you?” She asked.
“That’s right Commander. It’s me. Cliffjumper.” Cliff responded as he revved his engine. “I love Earth! Have you guys seen the ancient automobiles this planet has? I get that technology advances but there is just something attractive about wheels and tires.” He said.
“Could it be that your faction is called AUTObots?” Shron asked, emphasizing the auto in Autobots.
“Maybe.” Cliff responded.
“Moving along from that.” Teletran said, crawling up beside Cliff. “Congratulations on your graduation all of you.” He said. “I can tell all of you worked very hard for this.”
“Thanks Teletran.” Proxima responded.
“Your sentiment is appreciated.” Sela said.
“So did I hear we’ll ship out midday tomorrow?” Cliffjumper asked.
“That’s the plan. We’re still waiting on one component.” Risa said.
“And then we’re gonna hit the Derelict on the way, to see if there’s any Energon we can stock up on.” Tamil added.
“…That’s a good idea actually.” Cliffjumper responded. “I actually can’t remember if there’s Energon there so it wouldn’t hurt to check.”
“I concur. It’s a logical move to check our old ship for Energon.” Teletran responded.
Jack nodded, before something caught his eye. He looked up and out the open window, and saw something he knew shouldn’t be happening. “Uhm…guys, the Equestria is doing a flyby.” He said.
All the senior staff turned their heads to look out the window, and saw their ship flying by. “Uh, I thought she was supposed to be in drydock still?” Cliff asked.
“She is.” Proxima responded as she tapped her combadge. “Captain Maxima to Harmony, what the hell are you doing outside Drydock?” She asked.
“We’re embarking on our voyage Captain.” Harmony responded.
Proxima was about to ask who gave her the order, before they all saw Harmony go right into warp, effectively out of com’s range. “…what the hell?” Jack asked.
“Did…did Harmony just BAIL?” Shron asked.
Before anyone could do anything, they all heard Vance’s voice shouting through Proxima’s combadge. “Captain Maxima! Your ship just bailed!” He shouted.
“We saw it sir.” Proxima responded. Panic and alarm becoming apparent on hers and everyone’s faces.
“I did not authorize her departure. What is going on?” Vance asked.
Proxima was about to answer, before Cliffjumper came to a realization. He knew someone who was on the Equestria, and would do something like this. “I don’t Believe it. Blitzwing!” He exclaimed.
“Blitzwing?” Sela asked.
“…He hijacked the Equestria!” Phlox deduced. “He stole our ship!”
Proxima facehooved. “Oh for the love of…” She got back to the Admiral. “Admiral, we know who’s responsible.”
A few minutes later, Vance, Maxima, Sela, Kasey, and Captain Burnham were in Ops, and the Admiral was not happy. “How did this even happen? Harmony told us she would follow orders.” He said.
“Given she is still quite young, I would theorize that perhaps she is still a bit too trusting, and Blitzwing took advantage of that and told her it was ok. And that we were all ready.” Sela said.
“That would make sense. I remember when Zora was just coming into sentience. She too had to grow just like an infant would.” Captain Burnham responded.
“And now she’s in the hands of a con.” Proxima responded. “We need to stop her before she can get outside the galaxy.”
“We might have time to catch up to her.” Kasey reported as she joined them. “She’s set a course directly to the Derelict where this all started.” She said.
“Why would she go there?” Vance asked.
“We were going to head there once we departed sir.” Proxima responded. “We were going to see if we could salvage any Energon we could stockpile for medical emergencies before we left the galaxy.”
“That gives us a chance to catch up to and stop her.” Sela said.
“I’m sending all available ships to those coordinates. Maximum warp.” Vance responded.
“Discovery can Spore jump ahead and be there when Equestria gets there.” Burnham suggested.
“Good idea captain.” Vance responded. “Take the Equestria’s senior staff and get to that Derelict.” He said before turning to Proxima and Sela. “As for you. Once that ship gets within range, get onboard and get that ship back under control.” He said.
“Oh don’t worry sir. We’ll get that ship back.” Proxima responded.
“Get going.” Vance ordered.
Proxima, Sela, and Kasey followed Burnham out of Ops. Kasey shook her head. “I was hoping we wouldn’t have a problem like this until WELL after we entered Extra Galactic Space.” She commented.
“I am gonna have some choice words for Blitzwing when I get my hooves on him.” Proxima responded.
As they left, the Admiral turned to an ensign. “Find the other Cybertronians and detain them for questioning. For all we know this is a prelude to an attack.” He said.
“Aye sir.” The Ensign responded.
On the USS Discovery, Captains Burnham and Proxima, and the entire Senior Staff of the USS Equestria insta-transported onto the Discovery bridge. “Commander Detmer, Fire up the engines and move us to a safe distance from Federation HQ.” She ordered. “We have an AWOL starship to catch.”
“Yes Captain.” Detmer responded as the officer threw the Discovery into motion.
“Stamets, Prime the Spore Drive, prepare to jump on my command.” Burnham called down to engineering.
“Aye Captain, where are we going?” Stamets asked.
Jack borrowed a console on the bridge. “I’ll put in the coordinates. 87 Charlie by 271.” He said, putting them into the console. “It’s the Derelict we found our Cybertronian friends in.”
“Copy that. Spore Drive is primed and ready captain.” Stamets responded.
“Black Alert.” Burnham ordered. The lighting on the bridge changed and an alarm blazed. “Let’s fly.” Burnham said.
The USS Discovery spun its saucer and it did a barrel roll before disappearing in a flash, while the fleet around Federation HQ set their courses and jumped into warp.
Back onboard Federation HQ, Teletran and Cliff had been surrounded by armed security officers, and Cliffjumper was talking to the President. “Madame President, I can assure you that Blitzwing acted on his own and this stunt was all his idea. I give you my word.” He said.
“Forgive me if this incident put a dent in my trust towards you Cliffjumper.” President Rillak responded.
“We understand. But logically, if we were in on the plan, would we be here or on the Equestria?” Teletran asked.
“You two could have been left behind to cause as much chaos as possible.” Admiral Vace responded as he joined the President’s side. “Chaos that we would still be recovering from by the time your space fleet comes around and finishes us off.”
“...Ok, that’s fair.” Cliff admitted. “But I assure you that our planet would NEVER do that. If Cybertron were to send any ships, they would be here to THANK you for helping us. I can put my life on that.” He said.
“Why did your pal do this?” Vance asked.
“He grew impatient that we were taking so long to get underway would be my best guess.” Teletran responded. “He feels we do not need Equestria’s crew onboard to bring us home.” He explained.
“And what will he do once he reaches the Derelict and finds our people waiting for him?” President Rillak asked.
“One of two things will happen. Either he’ll just sulk, or he’ll try, and most likely succeed, to convince Harmony to go on the offensive.” Cliff said.
“Well that’s just great.” Vance responded sarcastically.
“If it is any consolation, you should have no problems disabling Harmony. I highly doubt that at her young age she has learned to fully control all her systems on her own.” Teletran tried to offer.
“She might force us to destroy her.” Vance responded. “We have to think about the Federation first, Harmony second.”
“Captain Maxima should be able to prevent that. She IS Harmony’s City-Speaker, in that she captains her.” Cliff said.
“I hope you’re right.” President Rillak responded.
Discovery reappeared out of thin air near the large Derelict. “Captain, we've arrived at the Derelict.” Detmer reported.
Burnham got out of her chair and everyone on the bridge stared out the window at the massive ship. “Holy macarol.” One officer said.
“THAT’S the Derelict?” Burnham asked.
“Yep. That’s it, the Derelict that started all this.” Proxima responded.
“Somehow it looks bigger than it did before.” Jack commented.
“Captains, I’m reading the Equestria exiting warp.”
Everyone looked out the viewscreen to see the USS Equestria exit warp right in front of them. “Right on schedule.” Proxima commented as she tapped her combadge. “Harmony. It’s Captain Maxima.” She said.
“What can I do for you Captain?” Harmony asked.
“What the hell do you think you’re doing? You’re still supposed to be in drydock.” Proxima told Harmony.
“I am?” Harmony asked. “But the Core’s installed and everyone’s onboard? We are ready to go?”
“No, we weren’t. The crew were all at our graduation reception, and the Harmony Core is still on its way to drydock.” Proxima explained.
“But Blitzwing said we could leave…Now I am confused.” Harmony said.
“We’re coming over there to sort it all out. Do not do anything until we do.” Proxima said. She turned to her senior staff. “Yamik, Shron, head to the shuttlebay with a security force and detain Blitzwing. Boimler, Baker, make sure Harmony didn’t hurt herself. Risa, Norman, we’re here now so might as well scan for Energon in the Derelict. Sela, you and I will handle Harmony.” She gave out orders.
“Discovery will remain on station and escort you back to Federation HQ when you’re ready.” Burnham said.
“Appreciate it, Captain.” Proxima responded as she and her senior staff all tapped their combadges and teleported over to their ship.
With them gone, Burnhm turned to her own crew. “Let the fleet know that the situation is under control.” She said.
“Aye captain.” An officer responded.
“Captain, might I have a word?” A British female voice addressed Burnham.
“What is it Zora?” Burnham asked.
“If you and Captain Proxima allow it, I believe it would be beneficial for Harmony CyberSpark to talk to the only other Sentient Starship in the fleet. Given she is going through a similar journey to mine. I believe it will help her in the long run.” Zora responded.
“You have my permission. Ask Captain Proxima later.” Burnham responded.
“I shall do so. Thank you Captain.” Zora responded.
“I apologize for the confusion Captain, Commander.” Harmony said. Proxima and Sela were in Proxima’s Ready Room, calling Harmony in for a chat. So she appeared in her holographic blue orb. “I had genuinely believed Blitzwing when he said everything was ready to depart.”
“We know Harmony. And we’re not mad at you.” Proxima responded.
“You are young, and the younger someone is, the more trusting they are.” Sela said.
“It is not your fault.” Proxima said.
“I still should have checked with you first.” Harmony responded.
“Well, What is done is done. Now let’s just focus on making sure this does not happen again.” Sela said.
“How do I prevent this in the future?” Harmony asked.
“From now on, you are to only listen to and follow orders from a starfleet officer wearing a Combadge. And if someone NOT wearing a combadge tries to order you around, you check with me, or Commander Sela first.” Proxima responded. “And as far as Blitzwing is concerned, do not listen to a SINGLE word he says until further notice. Which will be when I am confident he can be trusted with you.” She said
“Understood Captain.” Harmony replied. “This will not happen again. I promise.”
“It better not. You nearly gave Admiral Vance a heart attack when you left.” Sela said.
“I will apologize to him once we return.” Harmony responded.
“Good idea.” Proxima responded. “Now, if you’ll excuse me. I have a Decepticon to chew out.” She said as she left the Ready Room.
“She’s mad isn’t she.” Harmony commented, a hint of fear in her voice.
“Not at you Harmony.” Sela responded. “She knows you did not mean to do it.”
“Are you sure Commander?” Harmony asked.
“Take it from me, it takes A LOT for Proxima Maxima to lose her cool, but she always knows just who to direct her rage towards if she needs to.” Sela said.
“Should I warn Blitzwing?” Harmony asked.
“No, do not warn him.” Sela responded. “It will be better to teach him to never piss off Proxima like this again if he did not know what was coming.” She explained.
“Very well.” Harmony responded.
Meanwhile, in the shuttlebay, Yamik and Shron had erected a forcefield around Blitzwing to detain him, and Blitzwing was just sitting there pouting like a child. “Don’t understand why you’re even keeping me in here. You have the ship back.” He commented.
“Yes we do. And we will be ensuring that you cannot pull another stunt like this again.” Yamik responded.
“Was it even that bad? It’s not like I harmed Harmony or anything.” Blitzwing replied.
“THAT IS NOT THE POINT!” Everyone in the shuttlebay heard a booming female voice and Shron and Yamik felt chills down their spines, knowing full well who just arrived.
Proxima had insta-transported right to the Shuttlebay in time to hear Blitzwing say that, and it only worked to further anger her. As she approached the forcefield, Yamik and Shron backed up and plugged their ears, knowing what was coming.
Blitzwing however rolled his eyes. “Whatever. Can I be let out now?” He asked.
“Before I let you out. Let’s make it clear right here, right now.” Proxima said, clearly displaying her displeasure. “This is not a Cybertronian vessel. And you most CERTAINLY do not command this vessel. I do. This is my ship, and I WILL NOT tolerate a hijacking of ANY kind!” She scolded Blitzwing. “Do I make myself clear!” She growled.
Blitzwing just shook his head. “Alright Alright, I get it. Sheesh.” He said.
Proxima nodded. “And actually, it’s even WORSE than you seem to believe. Because not only could this constitute grand theft Starship. You also essentially KIDNAPPED A PERSON!” She added. “Because of the whole Emergence Protocol, Harmony CyberSpark is now a sentient, living, breathing lifeform. And as such is entitled to basic rights. Rights that you very much violated with this stunt.” She said.
“Actually she–” Blitzwing tried to cut in before Proxima stopped him.
“Came with you willingly, yes. Maybe.” Proxima responded. “But you lied to her, tricked her, and took advantage of the fact that she is still learning who to trust. Do you honestly believe this did her any favors?” She said.
Blitzwing listened, and he had to admit that Proxima had a point, Harmony was still young and had yet to grow like any living thing would. “I suppose you have a point.” He said. It was just taking so long to get going.”
“I know you want to get home. Believe me I do.” Proxima responded. “We are fully prepared to venture out into unknown space to bring you home. But we cannot do it without Harmony. And now we need to consider her growth and education.” She said. “We need to all be on the same page, not trying to confuse Harmony to no end. Do you understand?” Proxima asked. “Just like you had to go through growth and education, so does Harmony.”
Blitzwing considered everything being told, and sighed as he realized the gravity of what he tried to do. “You’re right. I didn’t think about what this would do to Harmony. I was too focused on getting home now that the mission is complete.” He admitted.
“Well that was a pretty dumb thing to do.” Shron commented with an eye roll.
“Don’t you think whoever sent you out here also intended for you to help her learn and nurture her to be the best she can be?” Proxima asked.
“That’s more Teletran’s and Cliff’s department.” Blitzwing responded. “I’m more the muscular warrior protector type.” He said.
Proxima just sighed and facehooved. “Whatever. Do we have an understanding?” She asked. “I’m the captain and I have the authority and not you?” She asked.
“Yes…captain.” Blitzwing responded.
Proxima nodded. “Good. So long as you remember that we won’t have anymore pro—“
“Captain.” Jack’s voice said through Proxima’s Combadge. “You better get up here. Emerald Rogues incoming.” He said.
Proxima heard, and groaned. “Oh for the love of, not them again.” She said.
To be continued…