[b]Korax, First Officer[/b]

And so the time came. The meeting broke up, and the two expeditions departed. One was on a scientific mission, the other on a diplomatic one. Only time would tell how both ended up resolving themselves.

On the bridge of the [i]Pride[/i], Korax watched the two groups departed the ship. Its face was expressionless, not that 5there was much expression there in the first place. While they went about the missions at hand it would oversee the ship. If assistance was required by either party it was the [i]Pride[/i] which would have to provide it. That was why it had stayed here.

Korax then turned from the viewscreen, moving to stand near the Captain's chair. "Carry on with your duties as normal," it informed the bridge crew present. "They will alert us if any difficulties arise." 

Beyond presenting an air of calm, it was for the best. A prolonged state of alertness would have a deleterious effect upon the crew, leaving them tired for the times when an actual emergency might arise. They were on potentially hostile territory, but it wanted to ensure that the crew did not stress themselves too much during the course of this mission. Who knew, the Captain might depend ion it in the future. It would also make for a useful precedent in future encounters. The crew would know what its leadership was like and be able to react accordingly. 

For now Korax began its silent vigil, reading reports and handling issues as they arose. Otherwise, it waited for the Captain to return. Hopefully all would go well.