Callen gave himself a mental once over as he approached the sickbay doors. The ship had an energy to it, and he was equal parts excited and nervous to be on board. He hoped the familiar environment of the medical facilities would help calm him, though being on the receiving end of a physical felt like a rarity because he was more used to giving them. He took a deep breath and squared his shoulders as the doors slid open.

As he scanned the room, his eyes settled on a tall man in a crisp uniform bearing the pips of a Lieutenant Junior Grade. He approached, snapping off a clean salute while desperately hoping his voice didn’t waver. “Cadet Voight reporting for duty and a boarding physical, Sir.” So far so good he thought, at least he hadn’t stumbled over his words.

• Cadet Callen Voight, Doctor