SNIP

Khiryn nodded, doing his best not to look sheepish. He had set an alarm to remind him about the meeting. Apparently, one alarm was insufficient protection against getting absorbed in his work.

“No specific questions, Sir. Just general ones.”

Ensign Donivas paused for a moment, organizing his thoughts. “Mostly, what are your expectations for me, Sir? As a new Science officer, I mean. My intention is to work on my qualifications and join the duty rotation on the bridge or in a lab as needed. I’m missing shipboard experience, and I’d like to close that gap as soon as possible. If there are areas you think I should be prioritizing, I’d like to hear them.”

Ensign Khiryn Donivas - Science Officer - U.S.S. Athena

“See, my goal depends on my officers. I aim to make everyone the best individuals they can be for their futures.” Liam said genuinely with a reflective tone. He considered the changes he had went through since his arrival on the Athena. Each challenge, struggle, failure and success had left its own mark on him. As a senior officer, he thought he would be changing others rather than changing himself. The Athena taught him otherwise.

Letting a moment of silence pass, Liam then continued. “My expectations are simple: do your best, learn and always aim to improve. It’s not an easy task as this ship’s missions will test you.”

Noticing his tea had cooled somewhat, he inhaled then applied heat through his palms. It didn’t take long for the steam to rise from the cup’s surface again. “I suggest focusing on getting to know others and improving cooperative skill sets. Out here in space, you’ll learn strong bonds can survive quite a lot.”

He let his words set for a moment to observe the officer’s reaction.

CSO, Liam J. Madison, Sci.

Ensign Donivas raised an eyebrow as the senior officer paused for a moment. Just before the silence became uncomfortable, the Akaali noticed steam rising from the man’s cup of tea again. That… was rather odd. Khiryn was fairly certain the steam hadn’t been there a moment ago, but he hadn’t been focusing on it and couldn’t be sure.

“I can see that the galaxy is full of all sorts of mysteries. I’ve already been meeting various people within the department and throughout the ship, but I’ll continue to integrate myself into the crew.”

Liam had appeared to concentrate for a moment before the steam appeared. That made it seem like a deliberate action on the Chief Science Officer’s part. A test, maybe?

“It seems like the ship may have tested you as well, Commander.” Khiryn nodded toward the man’s teacup. “Or perhaps I’m out of date on human physiology and should engage in some remedial studies.”

Ensign Khiryn Donivas - Science Officer - U.S.S. Athena