Franklin Xavier walked purposefully into the transporter room the next morning. The petty officer at the transporter console glanced up at him as Xavier approached his station. “Good morning, Commander.” “Good morning, Zeno. I'm a bit early.” Xavier rapped his fingertips on the top edge of the console. “It'll be two trips today. We've got a big group.” They both turned as the doors slid open to admit six blue-uniformed crewmembers engrossed in deep conversation. The chatter died down as Lieutenant Gerard at the front of the group spotted Xavier. “Ah, Commander. I see you're early as well.”