Orville: Phoenix

Chapter 2

Three Weeks Later
A small group of soldiers were seen running through a forest in full battle rattle on a small forest moon within the Orville's holodeck. The group consisted of a Turian, two male humans, and a red-headed female human. After running for a few more minutes, they arrived at a small camp where seven Federation soldiers were stationed, all of whom were in their combat gear. Among them, Jessica noticed a Union officer in her own combat gear, talking to the Federal Major. As she slowed down, she quick-timed to their camp and greeted them.

"Commander Grayson? What a surprise," the Field Marshall said as the Commander and Federal Major turned to her.

"I just came to see how you guys are holding up here. We haven't seen hide nor hair of you for a few days. Figured you would at least come up for air," Kelly stated as the Field Marshall took off her helmet.

"I understand, Commander Grayson. There's a reason why we have a few days allotted for this training. A few exercises every few days won't do for us. By the way, I'm surprised to see you wearing a combat vest," Jessica remarked as the group carried out their duties.

"Well, you mentioned that we should treat this training as if we were in the field, so I thought it would be right to wear my away mission gear. I noticed that you and the others were also wearing yours as well," Kelly replied.

"We train as if we're going into combat. Thank you for respecting my ways," Jessica said, just as a Private approached them, carrying a radio set.

"Field Marshall, there's a message for you and the Commander," the Private said, handing Jessica the radio headset.

"Field Marshall Cage here," Jessica responded.

"Jesse, I need you and Kelly to come up to the bridge. We have a situation," Captain Mercer ordered.

"Understood, Captain," Jessica replied, before handing back the radio to the Private. She then informed Kelly of the situation relayed by Captain Mercer.

"Captain, break camp! We're leaving the simulator. Be prepared for anything!" Jessica ordered, prompting the Federation group to mobilize and dismantle their camp. Jessica and Kelly opened the door of the simulator, and the Major tossed Jessica's rifle to the Field Marshall. They both stepped out of the simulator and into the bridge.

"So, Jess, how long have you been in the military?" Kelly inquired. Jessica looked at her and replied, "I've been in the military since I was eighteen. I'm 31 now, so that's about 13 years, give or take a day or two." Kelly was taken aback by this information. She couldn't believe that Jessica was already 31 and held such a high rank.

As soon as they entered the bridge, Ed turned to look at the two officers, both dressed in full combat gear. "Good, you're both here. Three hours ago, a Krill ship landed on a Union colony, and they took our base. The admiralty wants us to retake it as soon as possible," Ed informed them.

"Commander Bortos, please call the Major and Captain," Jessica ordered.

"Right away, Field Marshall," Bortos replied, obeying her command.

"Do we know how many enemy soldiers were sent?" Jessica asked.

"It's unknown, but it's believed to be a significant number," Isaac replied.

"What do you mean by 'significant number'?" Jessica inquired.

"Approximately 10-15 soldiers," Isaac stated.

"Firstly, we need to redefine your definition of a 'significant number'," the Major interjected as she and the Turian entered the bridge.

"Considering the forces we have and those of the Krill, they outnumber us," Isaac argued.