Story:Star Trek: Bellerophon/Eclipse Part 1/Chapter 1

Newly promoted Captain Sarah Mitchell edged her way through the open doors into the auditorium at Starfleet Academy. Inside, she could see the headmaster of the Academy, Rear-Admiral Wes Baker, handing graduation certificates to students as they walked to the podium.

As Sarah moved slowly to an empty seat in the back, she watched with interest as fourth-year cadets were congratulated. Cadets that she was observing carefully, trying to determine if any of them would be capable of filling some gaps in her junior officer ranks. The Bellerophon was still docked in orbit, and she had weeks to find officers, including specific senior officer candidates she wanted to go out and recruit personally.

After a round of applause died down, Admiral Baker straightened his posture and raised his chin as he looked around the auditorium. "And now," his voice began over the speakers. "It gives me pleasure to introduce to you all of the honored graduates of Starfleet Academy."

This is where Sarah grew interested. She knew she had come in late, and thought that she probably wouldn’t be able to find out who some of the graduates were. She’d forgotten about the honor graduates!

"First," he continued. "I would like to present this award and certificate of graduation to Lieutenant Todd Malay for outstanding piloting skills! As the head of Nova squadron for the last two years, he’s performed extremely well as both a pilot and a leader."

Todd Malay Chris thought in his mind. I may have found my helmsman. Leader of Nova Squad for two years, excellent piloting skills, and he was instantly promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. That was an impressive resume.

A young man in red and black Academy clothing walked up to the podium, an arrogant look of pride on his face. I remember being that arrogant when I graduated, he thought to himself with a smile.

Todd accepted the certificates from Admiral Baker and thrust them into the air, giving out a loud cry of, "YEEEEAAAAAHHH!"

He ran down the center aisle, keeping his certificate raised for all to see, until he came upon his seat and quickly threw himself down into it. Sarah let out a small laugh in reply and then anxiously waited for the next honor graduate.

When Commander Typhuss James Halliwell walks up next to her.

Commander Halliwell I presume its nice to meet you, Sarah says as she shook his hand.