Big Guns

The metal steps echo loudly as Captain Platinum descends the metal tube. There are certain shortcuts that can be found when one really knows a starship. This particular tube is usually used for maintenance, but at this time happens to be the fastest route from engineering to the cargo bays forward. Perspiration beads on his forehead, more from anger and frustration than any warmth found in the cold ship.
The captain was staring out the window. Seated in the Command Throne, he enjoyed a high view from the center of the bridge The twin forward Stryker arms of the new Gallente Megathron stretched powerfully ahead. The gentle curve of the metal glistened in the sun, almost sensuous in its organic, undulating shape. Thrusters flashed brightly as the drones launched from central bay, so prominent on this ship. Just then, the 24 year old ensign walked between the captain and his view. "Striking, how the curve of her thigh looks so similar in its lines to the imposing stretch of metal beyond the screen," he thought. "Huh, Captain?" The intercom suddenly broke through his daydream with a static hiss. "What is it, Legrand," the captain barked. "Sir, you better come down here now. Look at my manifest screen in engineering, and then I'll meet you in cargo bay 18."
The long, black, carbon-fiber cartons lay open in the hold. Glistening in the packgel were long metal tubes that gleamed with their lethality. The crates were so large that the chief engineer was already on top of a tall lift, just to see inside. "What is this now?" called Platinum from below. "I don't understand it," said Legrand, "I ordered these Modal Mega Neutron Particle Accelerators, just as you said. But they are definitely not what I expected. They look like they will fit the ship fine, but my crew has no idea how to install them. It seems they have not been trained on this equipment..."
"But they were supposed to receive installation training a month ago," interrupted the captain.
"Exactly, sir, but we were called away early to help Shocku on that messy matter with the Serpentis."
"Enough of this, you get your men trained, and I want these guns operational by the end of the week!"
Flying this new battleship was a dream come true. Captain Platinum had no idea how many more obstacles would appear before the great beast was ready for the rigors of deep space.
"Ensign Laurette, to the bridge please!"