Lieutenant Marcus Kane stepped out of the counselor’s office with a quiet nod of thanks before allowing the doors to close behind him. The evaluation had gone much as he had expected—professional, thoughtful, and another necessary step in becoming part of the USS Manhattan’s crew.

Consulting the day’s schedule on his PADD, his next appointment awaited in Sickbay. Like the psychological evaluation before it, the medical examination was a standard requirement for newly assigned officers. It was routine, but Marcus had long since learned that routine procedures often served the most important purposes.

The journey through the ship gave him another opportunity to familiarise himself with the Manhattan’s layout. Crew members passed in both directions, each absorbed in their own duties as preparations continued around them. Marcus acknowledged those who met his gaze with a polite nod before continuing on his way.

Arriving outside Sickbay, he paused briefly to straighten his uniform jacket before pressing the entry chime. Once granted permission, he stepped inside, allowing his eyes a moment to adjust to the brightly lit medical facility.

Holding his transfer PADD comfortably at his side, Marcus waited patiently until he could address a member of the medical staff.

“Lieutenant Marcus Kane,” he introduced himself in his usual calm tone. “I’ve recently reported aboard as Chief Intelligence Officer. I’m here for my boarding medical examination.”

With that, he fell silent, content to wait for whatever instructions came next.

Lt Marcus Kane
Chief Intelligence Officer
USS Manhattan