Cadet Greg Pricer sat quietly, collecting himself and his thoughts, as he prepared to meet his Department Head. He was glad the transporter had a problem, he hated using it and the shuttle ride gave him time to plan out what he would say. Once the shuttle docked he made his way to the office, stopping before going in to check his reflection in a panel to make sure his uniform was perfect. Just then a Lt. came out of the office, looking up at Greg.
“You must be our new Cadet. Don’t worry the Chief doesn’t bite,” the Lt. said, with a disarming smile that helped calm the clearly nervous cadet.
“Good to know,” Greg replied, silently wincing at how awkward it sounded. He smiled back, trying to recover from it as the Lt. walked off chuckling. He took one last deep breath and pressed the button to announce his presence.