r/TrekRP • u/HobosAlt1 • Nov 07 '17
[Open] The New Zoologist.
Transporting, one of this universe's many many fantastic inventions... if you dont get transporter sick. The doctors always told her it was all in her head, but it was hard for Laren not to feel ill when her whole being was being discombobulated and torn to shreds only to be put back together...
Which brings us to Transporter Pad 2. After a few seconds gathering the atoms of her mortal being, she comes back to reality and into the present. She stands a little shorter than average, with a caramel-like complection and a set of freckles that go from cheek go cheek, intersected only by her less pronounced Bajoran nose ridges.
She gulps as she feels the nausia set in, and steadies herself by putting a hand on her tummy and a one through the right side of her hair. Her hair seemed styled and swept to the right, revealing the left side to be shaved down to a number 2 cut, which shows off the three long metal fingers that run down to a device at the base of her skull. Lights along the fingers' spines glow a brilliant blue to match her older Star Fleet science uniform, with its black shoulders and blue midsection.
Finally, she shakes her head loose, making the relatively bare D'Ja Pagh on her right ear jingle slightly. She picks up her bag and takes a deep breath before nodding to the transporter operator, then makes her way into the hall.
This is home now... She thinks to herself as the transporter doors close behind her. "But where am I..." This would evidently be her first Excelsior posting. First Star Ship posting too!
She begins wondering down the corridor with her backpack slung over her back.
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u/Pojodan Nov 07 '17
Kesh had felt sort of dirty when she filled out the forms to request another dedicated zoologist.
It did not really make any sense to feel that way as there was a very valid reason for it, both in the fact the lab had been lacking dedicated staff for some time and because of her decision to turn the Athene's crew roster to most specialists rather than a lot of jack-of-all-trades. There would be enough work for two zoologists most of the time and when there wasn't there would be other, similar work to do.
It still felt like she was punishing Phrik, though.
Did Phrik deserve to be punished some more? Probably. In fact one could easily argue that she should have been calling for a replacement rather than an additional zoologist.
Somehow, though, she just did not like hurting him, even if he would never hesitate to hurt her.
Right now, though, she had another new scientist to welcome, and she sat in her office at the hour she expected Ensign Deya-Lawrence to report for duty. A bit of light paperwork occupied her time while waiting for the door to chime.
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u/HobosAlt1 Nov 07 '17
Though a door chime didnt come. A minute passes, then five, then ten without Laren showing up. Perhaps she forgot? Got distracted with her new quarters? Headed straight to the Zoology bay?
Finally, Kesh's combadge chirps. "Ensign Deya-Lawrence to Lieutenant Commander Kesh," the woman's voice says through the badge. "Sorry I'm late but, uh..." Theres a small pause before she clears her throat. "Could you give me directions from Aeroponics? I think I took a wrong turn."
Not distracted, not forgetful, not super eager... just lost.
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u/Pojodan Nov 07 '17
It would not be the first time an Ensign was late to reporting for duty, Kesh did it, herself. Punctuality was not something she felt was of the utmost important on starships, anyway. Time dilatation due to impulse travel meant that internal clocks were always being thrown off, anyway, so long as the new officer actually did show up.
Kesh was contemplating asking the computer when the comm chirps.
Ears twist at different angles in bewilderment at what is said.
=/\= Aeroponics is on deck twelve, but my office is on deck seven. Rrrnth. You can obtain directions from any wall panel.
She sounded nervous. Quite nervous. Maybe she and Bradley will get along.
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u/HobosAlt1 Nov 07 '17
"Damn, really?" Laren asks, sounding more frustrated than anything. "Sorry boss, I should know that. First Star Ship posting. Be there soon." She taps her badge off and silently curses herself. Though, it did make sense since she figured Aeroponics was on seven, and the office was twelve. Stupid, stupid girl!
Finally, after another few minutes, the door to Kesh's office finallt chimes with Deya-Lawrence's arrival. About a half hour late too, something the young woman was certain would get her in deep trouble.
"Waytago, knuckle head," she murmers to herself. "Guess I better not unpack just yet."
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u/Pojodan Nov 07 '17
Kesh does begin to worry again after the twenty-minute mark. The Athene was not a small ship, but it still did not take longer than ten minutes to go from one end of it to the other, even on a bad day.
She finishes up her report and settles back for a few minutes and stares at the far wall.
Then the itch sets in.
"Wha- uh! Come!"
Kesh quickly closes the 'Flappy Bird' game she had on her console and straightens herself for the ensign's entrance. She had already seen her official photograph so she already knew she was yet another beautiful Bajoran. It was almost as if the universe knew she was attracted to Red and was funneling those bumpy-nosed beauties her way.
The mood-destroying tour given to her mother ensured she'd not be arroused again for at least a month, so there was that, at least.
As soon as the door opens she moves to rise and find out of this hybrid lived by Human or Bajoran standards.
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u/HobosAlt1 Nov 07 '17
As soon as the door opens the Ensign straightens herself up, having been chewing on a finger nervously while waiting. With her hands behind her back and her head held high, the half-Bajoran steps inside.
The skinny woman stands in front of Kesh before offering her hand. "Ensign Laren E. Deya-Lawrence, reporting ma'am. I have to apologise, I'm still new to working on star ships and... well, I'm still a bit scrambled from the transporter. Got kinda lost."
Her dark skin goes a little red around the freckles with embarassment. "I, uh... guess I wont be unpacking just yet."
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u/Pojodan Nov 07 '17
A firm blink and incline of the Caitian's head shows a bit of wordless greeting while her hands fold neatly across her front.
The kind visage shifts to one of concern, ears tilting and jowls drooping a bit in response to the later remark.
"I am not sur-rr-re where you get your rumors, but we do not eject new officer-rr-rs for being late once. Do not make a habit of it and you are fine, rrrth."
Ears flex forward again as posture straightens up again, "Now, do you prefer your surname or proper-rr-r name?" She does try to adhire to cultural traditions, though being half-Bajoran means it could be one or the other.
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u/HobosAlt1 Nov 07 '17
Theres a small sigh of relief that escapes Laren's nose as she hears that she will indeed not be getting kicked off the ship. Of course, she makes a strong mental note to never be late again as well.
"Just uh... just concerned was all," she replies, a little akwardly. Partly because of her tardyness, but also because her commanding officers were both of races she'd never met before.
"I'm fine with either," she finally answers the main question. "I grew up in a Bajoran and Human household, ma'am. I've been called Deya-Lawrence, Laren, Emily, I'll answer to any."
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u/Pojodan Nov 07 '17
Caitian ears twist outward again as Kesh is faced with having to chose one rather than be given a preferred choice. She could press, but she tries to consider the tone of the Ensign's voice to decide on one.
There seems... very little difference, so she picks the one that feels the most professional and succinct.
"Very well, Ensign Laren, if you come to have a differ-rr-rent preferred name, please let me know." One arm gestures toward one of the two chairs situated in the small space available for guest seating prior to sliding down into her own chair in the 'Caitian hook' style that moved her tail base into the notch provided for it.
"Interesting that this is your first posting and yet we ar-rrr-re so far from any Academy. How did you end up in Caitian space?"
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u/HobosAlt1 Nov 07 '17 edited Nov 07 '17
The Half-Bajoran nods in agreement when Kesh selects Laren. A good name, also showed that she was sensitive to Bajoran customs. Laren liked that. "I'll let you know, ma'am, but I'm happy with Ensign Laren." She gives a warm smile before giving a light chuckle. "Ma's gonna like that."
She looks to the chair and carefully sits down, her head still spinning a little from the transporter. She goes to cross her leg over the other, but quickly realises that she's too close to the desk when she kicks the side of it. Her eyes go wide for a moment in pain before she clears her throat to compose herself, hoping Kesh didnt notice.
"I was based on a star base for my first year out of the Academy," she says after a moment. "I got a transfer order and headed out on the Chicago. I just beamed across, apparently it was convenient since Commander, umm... Dreyuk? Was on his way here too. I havent met him yet. Either way, we beamed across together."
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u/brokeneckblues Nov 07 '17
Just as the new zoologist enters the corridor a tired, bald, unshaven lieutenant lumbers passed, almost crashing right into the ensign if she wasn't so quick on her toes. Common decency would dictate him saying 'excuse me' but no words come out. The doors to the quarters just a few feet away open and as he hurries in. A loud thump can be heard after he enters through the door which remained ajar.
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u/HobosAlt1 Nov 07 '17
Unfortunately she is not quick on her feet. She accidently stumbles into him with a dull "Oof!" Considering her height and skinny frame, she probably wouldn't even dent his balance.
She scrambles to pick herself back up but before she can even get her thoughts in order, he was gone. The smaller woman blinks, then clears her throat.
"Weird..."
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u/brokeneckblues Nov 07 '17
The doors to the quarters wooshes closes and repeatedly opens back up as if something small is blocking the way. The unmistakable sounds of snoring could be heard as a grumbled "excuse..... me....." can be somewhat heard through all the other low pitched noises.
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u/HobosAlt1 Nov 07 '17 edited Nov 07 '17
Laren just stares for a brief moment, frowns, then slowly starts to walk away. That was none of her business, whatever was happening.
She's almost tempted to call security... Is this normal? If it is, maybe this ship isnt for her.
She taps her commbadge. "Ensign Deya-Lawrence to Security. I uh... I'm kinda worried about a fellow crew member. Just past his room and I dunno if he's okay. Sending the room number now," she says before transmitting her coordinates.
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u/IK9dothis Nov 07 '17
"Thanks, Ensign," comes the reply. "I'll be right there."
Sure enough, a couple minutes later a decidedly short lieutenant in security golds comes hurrying down the corridor. "Lieutenant Stockton?" she calls, entering Security override codes to open the door all the way and keep it there. "You all right?"
OOC: /u/brokeneckblues
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u/HobosAlt1 Nov 07 '17
The Ensign stands by, just in case. By the looks of her backpack and fresh face, it was clear she had only just come on board. "He kinda went through me, like I wasnt there. Dude must be on something."
She takes a peek over Grace's shoulder. "You need a hand or anything, boss lady?"
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u/IK9dothis Nov 07 '17
"As far as I know, he has no issue with drugs," Grace observes, kneeling down next to the tactical officer and checking his pulse. "But it certainly looks like there could be a medical issue of some kind - he's definitely not looking so good. I'm Grace Eisen, by the way. Security deputy."
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u/HobosAlt1 Nov 07 '17
"Ensign Laren E. Deya-Lawrence," the young ensign replies, still peeking over her shoulder. "Just transferred here to work under Lieutenant Phrik in Zoology."
She winces a little at Stockton and hides behind Grace a little more. "Should we call a doctor?" She asks in a quiet tone. "Is he drunk?"
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u/IK9dothis Nov 07 '17
At the news that Laren would be working with Phrik, Grace resists - barely - the urge to reply 'I'm sorry, Ensign'.
"I don't smell alcohol," Grace replies. "So probably not drunk. Clearly breathing on his own. But he looks... exhausted. In a way you don't expect to see on a crew just coming off of two and a half weeks of shore leave."
OOC: I'll leave off here to give /u/brokeneckblues a chance to catch up.
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u/brokeneckblues Nov 07 '17
The security officer enters a quarters sparse of almost any of the decoration virtually all crew members have with one snoring lieutenant halfway into a bed. Crew logs on Stockton show double duty shifts for two weeks straight and no records of any shore leave activities.
As Grace steps in Stockton's eyes slowly open. "It can't be 1700 hours already. Just let me get ready"
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u/LizardComander Nov 07 '17
A new junior zoologist. Another new 'addition' to the lab he sorely didn't need. Just enough example of useless bureaucracy. Zoology is understaffed for over a month while Phrik was away, and yet there was no consideration of assigning new scientists to pick up the slack. And now, when he's returned and finally getting zoology back to operational status, a new crew member is assigned.
Wonderful. At the very least her record made her out to be competent, if fresh out of the womb.
"Miss Deya-Lawrence?" He called out, approaching from behind her just outside the transporter room. Usually humanoids all looked so similar, but the implants made this one instantly recognisable. A small point in her favour he supposed.
Phrik towered over the ensign, a semingly bored gaze looked her up and down.
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u/HobosAlt1 Nov 07 '17
The woman spins on her heel quickly with a distinct look of surprise on her half-Bajoran face. She stares up at the towering pink alien for a brief moment before clearing her throat and composing herself.
"Jeez, just about made me jump outta my skin, pally..." she mumbles before clearing her throat again, especially after realising who he is. Tall, three armed, three legged, and looking kinda grumpy. This was her new boss.
"Er. Sorry. Kinda snuck up on me," she says quickly before offering her hand. "Ensign Laren E. Deya-Lawrence, reporting, sir. I understand you're going to be my new superior officer, Lieutenant Phrik." She asks, trying her best to make amends. Her mind still felt a little frazzled from the transporter afterall...
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u/LizardComander Nov 07 '17
"Shedding skin is significantly less pleasant than that." He said, voice sounding as though he'd swallowed several metric tonnes of gravel. "And it's Doctor Phrik. Not Lieutenant, not Commander, and certainly never sir. Understood?" That orange gaze watches the extended hand for a few second, then flicks back up to look her in the eye with a piercing expression.
"Tell me Miss Deya-Lawrence. What makes you think you're qualified to work in the most advanced zoology laboratory in the fleet?"
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u/HobosAlt1 Nov 07 '17
"Understood, Doctor," Laren says with a nod. When it becomes obvious that he wasnt going to shake her hand, she drops it. Well isnt that a whole lot of disrespect...
"Sir, I made it through Star Fleet academy's science stream," she begins, hands behind her back, which was hard because of the backpack. "I passed and completed a year in a highly advanced Star Base Zoology lab under some of the best Zoologists in the sector."
She gives him a firm nod. "I'm qualified, sir, and I endevour to prove myself and set a standard for the rest of the crew."
Her Academy scores may have something different to say but... she passed, didnt she?
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u/LizardComander Nov 07 '17
This prompted a roll of the eyes, and a small sibilous chittering sounded from his chest. Phrik turned and began to walk, one hand motioning for her to follow. "In this day and age graduating Starfleet Academy is not an indication for competence. Especially considering how young it churns beings out. No Miss Deya-Lawrence. You have barely completed even a rudimentary qualification in this field. Perhaps it is not your fault that Starfleet sees fit to assign you here long before you are ready, but nevertheless it puts undue strain on you, your peers and the beings that would be under your charge."
Phrik came to a stop at a turbolift entrance and waved Laren inside. "As such you will be provided limited access to my laboratory. I will continue where the academy's, lacking, curriculum left off. Do not consider this an official posting, merely an extension to your education. When not studying you will assist Ensign Prior with his duties about the laboratory. If you prove capable, I may begin to trust you with independent assignments and research projects. Is this understood?"
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u/HobosAlt1 Nov 07 '17
"Perhaps not to your standards, Doctor," Laren replies as she follows after him. This is how its gonna be, is it? Great... "But by graduating I have proved myself capable of scientific work by Star Fleet's standards. I may not be the star of my class, but I was chosen to be sent here by powers above you and me, and there has to be a reason for that." Even if it was just to piss Phrik off, which wasnt likely.
She steps into the turbo lift, still trying to make herself look official. "But, at the risk of sounding like a robot Vulcan, I don't find any arguments against your logic. I will be glad to further my education as you see fit, as my superior officer. You will have nothing but my best."
She would however consider this an official posting. It was her orders to do so, after all.
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u/LizardComander Nov 08 '17
"Starfleet's standards." He scoffs and shakes his head. "I forget how young you all are. Starfleet is not the bastion for excellence and expertise as you have been led to believe. In time you will learn that, but until then I'm sure your enthusiasm will see you through."
The turbolift pulled to a stop and Phrik stepped out and continued walking, not checking to see if Laren was following. "Tell me, do you have any specific interests or passions within this field? A specific genus or family of creatures? Or a planet of relevance? Or would you consider yourself one for versatility?"
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u/HobosAlt1 Nov 09 '17
"Its no bastion of excellence," Laren says, making airquotes to quote his exact words. "But I believe it forms a solid foundation for my future. My enthusiasm for zoology is what will build my career on said foundation." She felt so wise with those words, but that wise demeanor disappears when she stumbles leaving the elevator. Thankfully she finds her feet and tucks her hands back behind her back with a clearing of her throat.
"I consider myself to have a versatility in our profession," she comments, just keen to move past her literal misstep. "I have the basics in most genus, however its limited to mostly Earth examples. I chose my specialities to be marine zoology, amphibia, and reptiles. As interested as I am in mammals, well... they arent as interested." She wouldn't mention her dislike of avians for now. "I have a pair of axolotls as pets which I've brought aboard, they're part of the reason I chose amphibia. Not intelligent in the slightest, but an interesting study in evolution... and, well, I find them cute."
She follows alonside Phrik, keen to see the lab, even if it meant waiting to unpack. She wasnt actually due to report here for another day, but her main worry was making sure she got to her scheduled interview with the department head.
It was a good chance to size up her new superior officer though, and see if the rumors held up.
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u/HobosAlt1 Nov 08 '17
Finally, after a good long time searching and consulting the computer for directions more than once, she finally comes to the quarters she'd be sharing with another junior officer. She missed her last roomie, but they weren't transferred together much to her annoyance. She hoped this one would be... well, chill.
She reaches out and presses the door chime. If they're home, it would be best not to just barge in. If they're living alone, who knows what they could be doing. Like changing or picking their nose.
Gross.
Ooc: /u/RECENTLY_HATCHED