Posted by Captain Iphigenia Henao (Captain) in The Dyanmic Duo [FAO Iphigenia Henao]

Posted by Commander Oliver Loughty (Executive Officer) in The Dyanmic Duo [FAO Iphigenia Henao]
Oliver watched as Hazel skipped front of him, his daughter swung the Teddy he had given her when they left Earth down by her side its floppy and now somewhat weathered head bobbing back and forth in a way that would give anyone a bad neck. “Careful ‘El’” he said smiling and apologising to the bemused security officer who was walking in the opposite direction. “Remember Hazel the Leviathan isn’t used to having children on it, and you’ll end up in the containment deck if you’re not careful” He teased though it was met with a small giggle and a quickening of skips as they reached their destination, the mess hall.

The duo met with the ship’s Captain, whom Hazel adored. Perhaps it was that Hazel enjoyed listening to all the stories or that it was someone who could boss her father around he couldn’t quite work out but either way, Oliver was grateful to have such an understanding Captain.

“Captain,” He said seeing Hazel stopped in the middle of the room waiting for him to catch up, “How are you doing this evening?” He asked curiously.

Iphigenia glanced up from her PaDD, a warm smile spreading across her face as she spotted Oliver and Hazel. “Commander Loughty, I’m in good spirits today,” she said, as she looked over at Hazel. “And you, the Levi’s brightest star, what are you up to?” she asked the little girl.

“I’m teaching Daddy” She paused and rethought her words, “I’m teaching Commander Loughty to skip” She demonstrated in a small circle around her father, “It’s quicker than running and way more fun, just in case he ever has to get somewhere fast” She giggled and stopped by her dads side knowing that she had to be on her bestest behaviour around the Captain.

She couldn’t help but reflect on her initial hesitations about having a child aboard the Leviathan. The ship served as a containment vessel for numerous dangerous anomalies, and the prospect of accommodating a child’s needs had initially seemed daunting. However, observing Hazel’s infectious energy and witnessing Oliver’s dedication to balancing his duties with fatherhood erased any reservations she once harbored. Additionally, the chance to have one of Starfleet’s finest officers as her Executive Officer had played a significant role in her decision. Now, she couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of joy at the positive change.

“How are you two settling in? I hope you find your quarters sufficient to accommodate both of you.”

Henao, CO

Oliver courteously pulled out a chair for Hazel, who promptly hopped onto it, while he settled into his own seat. “Very well, thank you. The quarters on board are impressively spacious, though it can be a bit of a mixed blessing,” he remarked, glancing affectionately at his daughter. “Especially when you have a daughter who enjoys playing with every single toy and isn’t too keen on putting them away,” he added with a warm smile, indicating that the minor chaos brought about by Hazel’s playfulness didn’t bother him much.

With the appreciation evident in his expression, he continued, “The crew has been exceptionally accommodating and professional. Some have even generously offered their time to tutor Hazel or simply spend quality moments with her. It’s a testament to you, Captain. I almost feel like I’m not needed at times, given the incredible support she receives from the crew.” His smile reflected both pride in Hazel and gratitude for the ship’s nurturing environment, creating an atmosphere where familial bonds extended beyond the standard parent-child dynamic.

• Loughty, XO