Posted by Commander Celador Theinna (Executive Officer) in Officer’s Mess

Posted by Lieutenant Saxon Kreeger (Chief of Security) in Officer’s Mess
The Officer’s Mess was quieter than the main dining facilities below decks, reserved for those who carried the additional weight of command decisions and departmental responsibilities. Five forward-facing viewports allowed the stars to stretch across the room beyond the hull, a constant reminder that even during routine meals, the Manhattan remained deep in the unknown.

The scent of garlic, butter, and seared meat filled the small dining area as the staffed kitchen completed the midday meal service.

The replicator and kitchen staff had prepared a Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet — thick-cut steak strips cooked with roasted potatoes, garlic, herbs, and a rich butter reduction. Alongside it was a traditional dessert selection: Apfelstrudel, a paper-thin flaky pastry wrapped around a warm filling of spiced apples, raisins, and cinnamon.

A chilled glass of iced tea sat beside each place setting.

Lieutenant Saxon Kreeger, Chief of Security, entered the Officer’s Mess carrying a PADD under one arm. Even away from his security duties, his posture remained disciplined, his eyes instinctively scanning the room before settling into a seat near one of the forward viewports.

For a moment, he allowed himself to simply enjoy the quiet.

The tactical reports could wait a few minutes.

The patrol schedules, security drills, and ongoing investigations would still be there when lunch was finished.

Kreeger looked out at the stars beyond the viewport, taking a slow drink of his iced tea before picking up his fork.

A rare moment of normalcy aboard the USS Manhattan.

Lieutenant Saxon Kreeger
Chief Security Officer
USS Manhattan • NCC-88000
Starfleet Command

“Security Through Preparedness. Honor Through Service.”

“Mind if I join you?” A male voice asks from nearby. Celador stand tall, a cup of tea in his hand. Celador is and relatively thin. With brown eyes and hair that has a hint of gray in them. He face carries a serious, yet relaxed expression, but he glances out the viewport near Kreenger.

-Cel

” Please Commander sit, I wouldn’t mind the company.”

Lieutenant Saxon Kreeger
Chief Security Officer
USS Manhattan • NCC-88000
Starfleet Command

“Security Through Preparedness. Honor Through Service.”