Posted by Commander Oliver Loughty (Executive Officer) in The Dyanmic Duo [FAO Iphigenia Henao]

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

Posted by Commander Oliver Loughty (Executive Officer) in The Dyanmic Duo [FAO Iphigenia Henao]
Posted by… suppressed (4) by the Post Ghost! 👻
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

Iphigenia nodded, acknowledging Oliver’s gratitude. “I’m pleased to hear that the crew has embraced Hazel. It warms my heart to see the Leviathan becoming a home for both of you.”

She leaned back in her chair, setting the PaDD on the table, her gaze fixated on Hazel. “Excellent job addressing your father by his proper title in public. I’m impressed—few children would do that. It’s an important title since your father is the second in command of this entire ship.” Speaking in a child’s language didn’t come natural to Iphigenia, but she had been practicing and aimed to connect with the little girl. “And teaching your father to skip, Hazel? A rather unconventional skill, but you never know when it might come in handy in a tight situation.”

Hazel sat down now looked positively charged with the compliments from the Captain, you could see that she in such a short time had a somewhat admiration and childish obsession with the ranking officer and a small amount of praise went a long way for the young girl.

The Leviathan was more than just a ship; it was a community, and she felt a deep sense of responsibility for the well-being of each member.
“If there’s anything you need or if there are specific adjustments you’d like to make for Hazel’s comfort, don’t hesitate to let me know.” She presented a smile at the little girl before continuing in a more serious tone.

Oliver nodded and thought for a moment, “I think for the time being we are as happy and settled as we can be after a move, once Hazel has a routine again she’ll thrive here I know it.” He smiled with a genuinely thankful grin. Though the Leviathan was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for him he always had his reservations about Hazel and how she would adapt, he hadn’t given her enough credit and had severely underestimated her ability to adapt.

“Now, Commander, I wanted to discuss the matter of Hazel’s security during our missions.” Her gaze focused on him and she lowered her voice a bit. “As you know, our duties often involve dealing with unpredictable anomalies. It’s crucial that we ensure Hazel’s well-being is a top priority. Can you assure me that you have a viable plan in place to keep her out of harm’s way during missions? I want to be certain that we’re prepared for any scenario, especially when it comes to the safety of our youngest crew member.”

Henao, CO

The Commander was not surprised for the conversation to quickly pivot to Hazel Safety, it was one talked at length by the assignment board before his transfer approval. “Of course, firstly I was thinking about giving hazel a communication badge, that way I can talk to her if needed and we can use it to monitor her without the need for a science station. I was thinking of asking engineering to make something a little less obvious than the generic one.” He suggested.

“I’ll also be running Hazel through a series of non-serious but essential drills, how to get to sickbay, security, the mess and where the closest escape pods are. She also has restricted access of course to a lot of areas.” Oliver gave a pause to allow the Captain to comment before continuing on. “Also as requested by the assignment board volunteers have been identified who will be educating and playing with Hazel which will serve as the bulk of her day and will happen during my duties hours the rest I’ll be with her, if I’m called in off duty there’s a list of people who have offered to watch her either in our quarters or at an agreed locaiton.” Oliver also knew though didn’t communicate it but ultimately it was down to him to ensure the safety of his daughter.

“If I am honest, I think the crew have already gone above and beyond both Hazel and I are extremely grateful and we know the risks.” Oliver looked to his daughter who was swinging her legs back and forth and humming a small tune as she observed other crew members coming and going, she was observant for age. “The crew’s safety is also important to me, its something I will have to battle in those situations but I trust Hazel that at any time she’ll be able to stay safe.”

• Loughty, XO

Iphigenia listened to Oliver’s detailed safety plan for Hazel, her expression a mix of approval and consideration as he outlined the measures he envisioned for his daughter. She nodded in acknowledgment, accompanied by the occasional shift of her gaze toward the young girl.

The mention of a discreet communication badge prompted a contemplative expression from Iphigenia. It was a practical and thoughtful approach, ensuring a direct line of communication with Hazel without drawing unnecessary attention. “The idea of drills and familiarizing Hazel with key locations is truly excellent,” she remarked, her tone carrying appreciation for this well-thought-out plan. “It’s important for her to have a clear understanding of the ship’s layout and emergency procedures. The communication badge.... a stroke of brilliance! I wouldn’t have thought of it myself. Perhaps because I am not a mother,” she added with a touch of vulnerability. Iphigenia’s thoughts momentarily wandered to her own uncertainties about the future and the possibility of her having a family, a reality that seemed distant given her commitment to Starfleet. The presence of Hazel had unexpectedly stirred emotions and considerations she hadn’t entertained before.

Her attention returned to the matter at hand, her focus shifting to the potential challenges that awaited them in the ever-changing environment of deep space. “Commander Loughty, I trust your judgment, not just as a Commander but as Hazel’s father, in identifying suitable individuals for her care. However, have you ensured that they are fully briefed on the potential risks and the need for constant vigilance? While she is on this ship, Hazel’s safety is a shared responsibility, and the more informed the crew is, the better we can assist you in protecting her.”

Iphigenia took a thoughtful pause, her gaze lingering on Oliver with a softening expression that spoke volumes of admiration for the dedication he exhibited toward his daughter. It was a heartfelt moment that resonated with her own experiences, an echo of her own father who had raised her and her brother single-handedly. A quiet resolve settled within her, prompting her to make a mental note to call her father later, to hear his voice.
Her next words were those of understanding and shared responsibility. “While I have faith in the crew’s commitment, it’s essential to remember that the Leviathan is more than a ship; it’s a dynamic and unpredictable environment. While we can meticulously plan for many scenarios, adaptability is key. I encourage you to continue assessing and refining the safety measures you have put in place, always keeping Hazel’s well-being at the forefront of our considerations.”

Her gaze lingered on Hazel then a gentle smile graced Iphigenia’s face as she contemplated the unique challenges that came with ensuring the safety and happiness of the Leviathan’s youngest crew member.

Captain Henao
(Commanding Officer)

Grateful for the Captains approval and understanding of her continued pressure to ensure Hazel’s safety Oliver gave her comments a moment thought, he also had felt that there was a shift in her demeanour or at least her tone it seemed Hazel or at least perhaps the presence of a family caused a conflict or stirred some emotion in his commanding officer, one that perhaps he would be privy to as their relationship grew. “I will keep a monthly log of the measures in place and ensure that they remain adaptable given the Leviathan’s current mission and that the crew members who wish to educate and spend time with Hazel are understanding in the unique situation we find ourselves in.” It went without saying that he also didn’t want it to be a burden on the crew. “I think as well it may be prudent for Hazel herself to understand the dangers the ship may find itself, I have never been one to hide things from her I don’t want her to be naive to the difficulties she could find herself in.”

“Very well,” Iphigenia said to Oliver. Clearly Oliver had considered everything and she had no additional input.

“Does that mean I can have a F-aser?” Hazel asked, exaggerating the ‘PH’ making it sound like a capital ‘F’ as she broke away from her daydream. She was a ship captain leading an away team on a weirdly purple planet, its sun was purple, its animals were purple and its people were purple too. At the risk of not being taken seriously she added, “Pleeeeeease” The young girl looked between her father and the Captain with hope in her round eyes. There was nothing more terrifying the a ten-year-old wanting to wield a weapon.

Oliver frowned and then quickly smiled, “We’ve been through this Hazel, weapons are only used as an extreme last resort and before it gets to that stage I will be with you to keep you safe or at least someone from the ship will.” Having had this conversation many times Oliver had considered alternatives but he always fell short. The federation was by all rights a peaceful organisation that somehow always ended up needing to use force and that would of course rub off on an inpressionable young woman. He looked to the Captain wondering if he could give him the idea that always seemed to escape him.

“But what if you’re not there to keep me safe how am I supposed to help people?” She asked displaying a little bit of sadness.

• Loughty, XO

Iphigenia leaned in slightly, her gaze shifting between Hazel and Oliver. “Hazel, your desire to help people is commendable, and your father is right about the importance of using weapons as a last resort. However, there are other ways you can contribute to the safety and well-being of the crew. How about we arrange for you to undergo basic first aid training with Dr. Maxwell or Nurse Mazelon? This way you’ll be prepared to assist in emergencies. Your knowledge and quick thinking could make a significant difference without resorting to using weapons.”

Iphigenia glanced at Oliver, a silent acknowledgment of the delicate balance between fostering Hazel’s sense of responsibility and maintaining her safety. “Captain’s orders, Hazel. No weapons for now, but we’ll find ways for you to be a valuable member of the team without compromising your safety or the principles of the Federation. Deal?”

Captain Henao
(Commanding Officer)