Ares (Starship)

The Starship Ares functions as the narrative catalyst: Picard names it as the vessel whose captain is retiring and whose command is being offered to Riker. Though never physically present, the Ares represents distance, responsibility, and the isolating demands of exploratory command.

The Starship Ares functions as the objectified prize and burden: Picard names it as the command opportunity, and Riker immediately translates that name into concrete costs (Vega‑Omicron posting, months at high warp). The Ares is less a ship than a narrative device testing Riker's priorities.

The Starship Ares functions as an offstage but active narrative lever: Pulaski uses the Ares command offer as a practical frame to counsel Riker, linking his personal readiness to a concrete career choice and implying that unresolved emotions could jeopardize his future command.

The Starship Ares is mentioned as the imminent, consequential command opportunity Riker is considering. Pulaski frames the Ares as the professional context that requires Riker to assess and possibly shed personal encumbrances before accepting long command.

The Starship Ares is referenced as the imminent assignment that frames the stakes of the conversation. It operates narratively as the practical pressure that makes Pulaski's counsel urgent: Riker must choose to accept command, and Pulaski's disclosure is meant to influence that choice by clearing emotional obstacles.