I arrived at Baltimore Shipyard to take command of my L-584 "Enterprise" class Luxury Liner and my was I not disappointed! The liason, a young man with a charming confidence, explained that the ship has been completely refurbished, a full inspection performed on it's hull, and a new engine installed. He could have told me that the ship was brand new and he would make a believer out of me!

We did a walk around inspection of the craft and the shine on the ship was incredible. I ran my fingers along the hull, it was as smooth as freshly cooled glass. I was initially concerned that maybe the oils from my hand might interfere with the coating, but he laughed. The outer hull segments are coated with a polish that is resistant to most types of radiation, both solar and environmental. That was a relief to hear. If it couldn't withstand the oils from my skin, I surely would not trust it in the hazards of space!

The liason then provided me with a tour of the ship. I won't be at most locations of the ship, including the various bars and clubs, but it is nice to see what amenities are being provided to the passengers. What I was most concerned with was getting to the bridge!

The young man started to show me around the bridge, but quickly stopped himself. I might be an old man, but my memory is as sharp as it was when I was 20! I reminded him that enclosed with my dossier are my credentials and certifications. I am trained on this type of ship, after all. But he did show me a few other bells and whistles that weren't in the training ships. He also made notes of some adjustments I would like to the bridge, to include padded furs on the arm rests of the captain's chair. My forearms get crampy after sitting for awhile, so I need all the padding I can get! Other minor adjustments were noted er... seat heights, that sort of thing. We all have our particularities!

Finally came the time to fire her up! But first the bay drones had to transport the ship to the launching port, which then had to set us into position in one of the shipyard carriages. What a boring mess that was, but is required. No need starting up a liner engine inside of the shipyard hangar and causing violent decompression on a count that we've blown out the hangar bay doors! But anyway, eventually we were able to get the new engine fired up. I wanted to let the engine sit in idle for awhile to make sure all of the nuts and bolts were put into place. Everything seemed fine, so we were given authorization to apply 20% throttle to the engines. Everything still read nominally. So then we pointed into the direction of Planet Manhattan. I had to correct the liason, however. I didn't want to take the trade lane. I wanted to run the engines wide open, at 350 speed, in cruise mode. I wanted to really push her to her limits.

The test could not have been any better. Not only did all systems show nominal readings, but they never even burped aboe or below nominal levels. I cannot express my gratitude to the professionalism and quality of service provided at Baltimore Shipyard!

We eventually made it to Manhattan Center. There was a small hiccup with our communications. You see, I was so excited with commanding this ship that I forgot the call sign I made for her. The Reykjavik Express, or Romeo Echo, was given her first announcement over space control. I'm getting goosebumps just thinking about that moment.

We set course to dock with Planet Manhattan mooring fixture. I received instruction that I would meet my personal assistant who would have orders for me for our next steps.

So, check this out. We take the mooring elevator and shuttle services to Manhattan Station. There, this beautiful blonde haired woman approaches me. She introduces herself as Rachel Vandenberg. That's the name I was given alright, but boy am I excited to work with her! But I must discuss the uniform though. Is it within standards to have her wear a skirt so short? Not that I'm complaining, of course. What curves that woman has!

Pardon me, I am working myself into a sweat. I apologize if I went into too much length discussing her. But I must also add that her attitude and interest in getting straight to work was exemplary. I am confident that whatever I feel needs to be taken care of aboard the RE will be acknowledged with best haste by Rachel and my support staff.

Now, it is something to note that Manhattan mooring ports are not for lengthy stays. We were given an exception because of all the work needing done to get her space worthy, let alone prepare to accomodate guests. However, and again thanks to OSC's recruiting quality, we were able to meet in my office aboard the RE and make quick work of the requirements of my ship. I understand that my bridge staff will be rented to me for her maiden voyage and that I will be given profiles of applicants for various positions needing filled. I will be busy enough as it is ensuring my passengers are taken care of and my staff have the tools they need to support their captain, but of course Rachel was quick to calm my nerves in saying she will make sure it gets done. What a darling she is! I will use my first passenger service as a time to review applicants and choose those that I believe would be best suited as my support staff.

Without time to spare, we were quick to work contacting the rental support staff and getting things in order to receive passengers. Rachel was on the phones for hours and hours contacting hiring agencies to get servers, hosts, bartenders... you name it, on board and situated with their work environments. I don't believe the bay doors even shut with all the hustle and bustle of incoming staff and supplies. I wanted to take part in ordering at least the food, but the chefs nearly slapped my wrist to stay away. They are professionals in their crafts, after all. Best leave it to them to make the right decisions.

I am sorry to cut this journal entry short, but there are matters to attend to. I'm getting word from Manhattan station that passengers are getting restless to board. I'm guessing the OSC 'brass' wants to take it easy on me, just a quick jont up to Sigma-19 through the Kusari worlds to the Hawaii. We'll do a passenger swap and I'll haul the returnees back to Planet Erie in Pennsylvania. Rachel is handing me a list now of approved routes by OSC. Good to have some maps routed for future reference.

Much to be dine, we will keep in touch!

A smiling and sparkling Theobald Franklin fills the screen. One can see that he nearly bursts with joy and energy.

I come today with wonderful news! Deep Space Engineering has outdone itself. Although it took a significant amount of time and money, the Reverie is, simply spoken, finished! She shines like new!

The camera zooms out and shows the command center, shining newly polished.

It is amazing. No one would see just HOW she has been repaired. Everything is covered up to Orbital standards and specifications. All amenities and comforts she had before are there again.

Theobald walks around the ship while speaking, the camera following and showing the interior of the ship. One can see with how much detail and care everything has been rebuild.

Of course there are differences, but I'd say President Director Harus Burke from DSE has not exaggerated when he said that the ship has been made better and especially unique. We are looking here at a carefully crafted, polished and honed diamond of a ship!
I can't deny that I was skeptical and feared that I would not be able to recognize the Reverie after what has happened. But walking in here, into this ...

He looks around, turns around, his arms outstretched, looking at the ceiling of the main reception hall.

...this Living Beautiful Dream!...

He faces the camera again.

...I feel like falling in love again with an old friend. Yes, she looks, feels and sounds a bit different, but this is nothing to the overall picture. It simply fits.

So, my dear colleagues, we just need to restock the ship and will be ready to make our second virgin flight soon. The new engines should be working, according to the Junkers and my chief engineer. I haven't tested them myself yet. But I hope we will soon.

You can expect an invitation for our... how to say... "Rebirth Party" or something like this, very soon. I hope to see everybody of you there. Hey, that would be a sight to remember.
He chuckles.
Until then, safe skies to everybody. I will keep you informed.