((Secondary Bridge, USS Ursa Major))

:: Although Chen had elected to stay on the bridge after Mage left, he
was hoping that the new shift will start soon. Even though the
Admiral was back in charge, Chen felt that he still had to see the
tasks that were assigned to him through. And he felt that he was
committed to seeing the rift shuttle off before turning in. He also
stayed so that he could see that the away team shuttle was safe in the
shuttle bay. He had not had time to reflect on what really has
happened. It was his first command on a starship, albeit, a temporary
one, but so far, he had hid behind a shield of duty, emotionally
detached. Perhaps one day he will have to talk to Mage about all of
this, provided that he realizes it first. ::

:: The shuttle was retrieved without any incident and after Cmdr Solan
had left the secondary bridge and while the Admiral was taking a call,
Chen gave a short call to Ensign Spencer and told him keep monitoring
the progress of the third probe, until they stopped receiving its
signal. He also told the team that he wanted all of the data
catalogued, the shards stored safely and to prepare for a final report
of the findings. After the call, Chen got up to leave the bridge.::

CHEN: ::Seeing that the Admiral has finished his call, as well.:: If
I may, Sir, I would like to request permission to leave the bridge for
the main shuttlebay.

HOLLIS: (response)

CHEN: Well, sir, I just like to see the shuttle off. ::Being
uncertain.:: Umm, I could double check the flight coordinates and
shuttle modifications if you wish.

HOLLIS: (response)

CHEN: Thank you, Sir. ::Stifling a yawn.:: I know that it is not
quite the end of the shift, yet, but may I have your permission to get
some rest, after the Higarel shuttle is off. I don't quite remember
when I last slept.

HOLLIS: (response)

CHEN: ::Smiling. :: How quickly I forget about those all-nighters at
the Academy. I suppose the beds are more comfortable on a starship
than those in the Academy dorms.

HOLLIS: (response)

CHEN: ::Feeling awkward.:: Oh…errr..yes, Sir. Thank you, Sir.

:: Chen almost walked in the wall next to the turbolift. ::

LT. JG Takashi Chen
CSO
USS Ursa Major