Posted by Ensign Walter Genard Gibbs (Science Officer) in Counselor Check in: Ensign Gibbs
Gibbs figured he would meet his check in obligations by starting at the top and working himself down. First would be Deck 11, and Counselor Cross.

The spacious counseling offices were easy to find. The waiting room had at least one other crewman inside, a tall gangly looking engineer. The gold uniform and grease stains around the cuffs of their sleeves were a dead giveaway. The receptionist was busy so Gibbs thought he would chat up the Engineer.

“Mind if I sit here? I’m Gibbs, Walter Gibbs” He stated extended his left hand. The engineer looked at him oddly at first, then took his hand. “Beeker. Robin Beeker. And yes, you can take a seat.”

“I just came aboard the Ark Angel. Doing my check ins. How about you? How long have you been aboard the Ark Angel?”

Beeker’s smile was thin barely noticeable. “It’s not the Ark Angel. It’s the AA. You go around calling her the Ark Angel and you will stick out. And I have been aboard for about 17 months. Engineering, if you can’t tell.”

“I figured as much,” Gibbs replied, pointing at Beeker, “I saw the grease stains. If you don’t mind, can I ask you a question? What are the rules around here regarding modifying the replicators in my quarters? I want to tweek a recipe.”

“I think it will be ok to do it to the one in your quarters, Just don’t mess with the ones in 17 Forward or the diplomatic areas. That would bring down the Wrath of Waryn. My boss doesn’t like folks messing with stuff they don’t need to be messing with. Why don’t you give me your quarters ID and I’ll make the changes for you?”

“Thank you Robin. I’m in 41-117.” Gibbs replied with a smile, “I’m glad we met Beeker.”

“I am too, Walter. I’ll contact you soon.”

Just then the receptionist interjected, “Hello. Can I help you?”

Gibbs rose and walked to the desk. “Yes, I am Ensign Walter Gibbs. I transferred aboard today and I need to have my counseling clearance.”

Ens. Gibbs

The receptionist offered Ensign Gibbs a welcoming smile as she checked the day’s schedule.

“Welcome aboard, Ensign. Lieutenant Cross is expecting you.”

She tapped the control on her console, and the frosted doors to the counselor’s office slid silently apart.

Inside, the atmosphere was unlike the sterile offices found elsewhere aboard the Ark Angel.

Warm amber lighting softened the room, while rich wood finishes and exposed brick accents gave it the unmistakable character of old New Orleans. Jazz drifted quietly from hidden speakers, never loud enough to distract, just enough to make the space feel lived in. A framed photograph of the French Quarter hung beside shelves filled with books rather than PADDs alone. To one side, a recessed conversation area featured a comfortable sectional sofa, two leather armchairs, and a low coffee table, inviting conversation instead of interrogation. Behind a polished wooden desk sat another pair of guest chairs, though it was obvious Cross preferred meeting people on equal footing rather than from behind the desk.

Lieutenant Peter Alexander Cross rose as Gibbs entered.

At six-foot-three, the counselor possessed an athletic build and an easy confidence. His dark eyes carried a calm attentiveness that seemed to take in everything without appearing intrusive. His uniform was immaculate, his posture relaxed, and a warm smile settled naturally across his face.

Another new face, Cross thought. Another opportunity to help someone find their footing before the pace of the ship sweeps them away.

He stepped forward, extending his hand.

“Ensign Walter Gibbs? I’m Lieutenant Alex Cross. Welcome aboard the Ark Angel.”

His smile widened slightly.

“I’m glad you could stop by on your first day. Come on in and have a seat wherever you’re most comfortable. Around here this isn’t an interrogation—it’s simply a chance for us to get acquainted, answer any questions you might have, and make sure you’re settling into your new home.”

Cross gestured toward the seating area rather than his desk.

“So… welcome to the crew, Ensign. Tell me a little about yourself, and how your first day aboard has been treating you.

Counselor Alex Cross