A Bonnie Lass

 

The Enterprise-A hung motionless in spacedock, a gleaming image of technological perfection, sleek powerful lines silhouetted against a backdrop of stars.  The Federation's new flagship would explore distant reaches of the galaxy, strike fear into the enemies of humankind, and demonstrate the newest marvels of Earth's scientific ingenuity.

 

"Aye, she's a bonnie lass."

 

Only someone who knew the old engineer very well could have detected the faint note of melancholy in Scotty's voice.  Instead of looking forward to the adventures yet to come, he was still grieving the loss of the ship he had served faithfully for so many years.