The shuttle rendezvoused with the Challenger and slipped into the hangar and settled on the deck. As the door opened, a bulky blue-skinned individual stepped out; a huge smile on their bifurcated face. One of the ship’s Security officers, a Cadet, stepped up with a PaDD and said “Welcome to the Challenger. Name and purpose of visit, please?” The smile grew slightly larger and the figure set down their bag and said “Hi! Kendric Tor. Lieutenant. New Chief Engineer. I was told to speak to the Captain first before going to my quarters. I know the way, but do I need to be escorted?”

The Cadet looked at him a moment and then said “Um… I…” and Tor leaned forward and said “Check your current crew roster and see if I am listed. If I am, then my clearance has already been put in the computer and I don’t need an escort. If I’m not listed, Im not crew yet and will need one.” and he gave the Cadet a wink. The Security cadet nodded and said “Thanks, Lieutenant. My first shift on board.” quietly. Tor nodded and said “Well, that puts you full shift ahead of me. You’ll have all tis down in no time, I bet.” The Cadet nodded and said “You are on the roster, so feel free to go the Captain’s ready Room, Lieutenant. And.. thanks. I’m really nervous.” Tor nodded and then whispered “Don’t worry… so am I.” and he picked up his bag and said “Thanks, Cadet. See you around, I’m sure.” and Tor walked out of the hangar.

A few minutes later, Tor pressed the chime on the Ready Room door and rocked back and forth on his heels as he hummed a song and waited.

Tor, CE