Interdiction

Interdiction is a short story about a minor engagement in the early years of the Insurrection.
==Setting==
The year is 2506; the increasingly bloody insurrection continues to spread across Human Space even as government agencies endeavor to contain it. In the face of these efforts, numerous insurrectionist organizations are on the rise, with several groups moving towards coordinated armed resistance against the Unified Earth Government. One such group, the Colonial Emancipation Alliance, works towards assisting the myriad planetary rebellions however it can.
Recently, soldiers of the United Nations Space Command – the premier fighting force of the Earth Government – began a major offensive against an insurrection on the planet Daybreak. In full retreat, the rebel forces on Daybreak have appealed to the nearest CEA command for assistance in halting the Army’s advance. It is at this time that the battle-tested Alliance frigate Patriot returns from a lengthy tour of duty...
==Part I==
Captain Hugh Richards exited the lift, nodded to the saluting security officers, and, as the reinforced doors slid open, stepped onto the bridge of the Patriot. Lieutenant Commander George Brant stood at center, reviewing technical reports from Chief Erol Aslan. A tall, dark-haired man of thirty-two years, Brant was an energetic veteran of the insurrection, and an exceptional leader as well. Having joined up after his uncle was killed by UNSC forces on Eridanus II, Brant had risen through the ranks of the Alliance quickly, demonstrating a mind for tactics and the ability to work well with a diverse crew. Richards had hand-picked Brant as his Executive Officer more than two years ago, and had never regretted the decision. 
“I take it officers Clarke and Hammond had no complaints, Captain?” Brant asked, not looking up. Richards smiled. “Nothing but good words and compliments for our crew and officers, as expected.” As usual, his XO seemed to have eyes in the back of his head; neither Hugh nor any other crewmember had successfully caught Brant unaware. “Our timely arrival was rather critical to their extraction, so some measure of gratitude is no surprise. Speaking of which, what’s the word from Engineering? How does she look?” 
“Ready for action; any damage we suffered in our previous engagement has been fully repaired.” Brant looked up, favoring Richards with a small smile. “To quote Ensign Garand, she’s ‘prepped and ready’. Engineering has done it again, sir. ” 
“Indeed they have. Remind me to extend my personal appreciation for them, the chief in particular. Erol and his team do not disappoint.” Richards sat down in his command chair before continuing, “We’ll drop off our esteemed guests, move the Patriot into dry dock, and enjoy a well-earned leave. On that note – Lieutenant Woźniak, what’s our ETA to the Ticonderoga?”