Reece sat beside Cortez, with two separate PADDs.
One was the crew roster with the additions taken on at the dock, the other was the duty roster. Putting the two together to make the schedules wasn't a highlight of his temporary job, but it had to be done.
Finally, after three hours, he had finished the job and set the PADDs aside. He put his face into his hands and brought them up through his hair. He rubbed his eyes. They ached from staring at the tiny PADD screens for so long.
A beeping from his console had him jump to reality again.
"Sir, we're receiving a priority one transmission from Starfleet. I'll route it through to your ready room."
Acknowledging the arrival of Masters and Mirwald with a gentle nod, Cortez made his way into the ready room. Sliding the computer screen around to face him, he activated the comm channel. The familiar sight of the Federation logo was quickly replaced by another, less-familiar looking Starfleet Admiral. Cortez recognised him immediately.
"Admiral T'Por" he said,
"What can I do for you?"The Admiral tilted his head in typical Vulcan style before responding.
"Lieutenant Commander. I have a new assignment for you and your crew"Cortez' interest had been peaked.
"Starfleet believes there is another pirate base operating out of the Cho'chek system" he continued
"You are to investigate these reports and, if possible, deal with the problem. I am sending the USS T'Kumbra to assist you, but Starfleet Intelligence does not believe there to be a significant defensive force in place at the installation"Cortez wanted to smile so badly. At last, he could finally take the fight to the pirates without fear of reprisal from Starfleet.
"You can count on my crew and I, Admiral" he replied
"I suspect I can, Lieutenant Commander, but be cautious. The Cho'chek system borders the Klingon Empire. It would be most unwise to enter their territory."Cortez took a deep breath,
"Understood, Admiral"After a short silence and a customary Vulcan nod, T'Por ended the communication.
"T'Por out."The screen went blank, leaving Cortez staring at the Federation logo once more. A two ship assault on a pirate base.
Piece of cake.