Posted by Civilian Melaia Reez (Scientist) in CSO’s Office- Reez

Posted by Lieutenant Junior Grade Najma C. Moreino (Chief Science Officer) in CSO’s Office- Reez

Posted by Civilian Melaia Reez (Scientist) in CSO’s Office- Reez

(snip)

Melaia moved to the chair and sat down, giving the CSO a small smile. “Well, a little while ago the Captain and I were talking and she suggested I take up a civilian scientist position on the ship. I know you haven’t been on board long enough to maybe know this, but I was a Starfleet officer for many years and before I went on indefinite leave I was starship captain. But before I went into command I was a scientist. I have an Honours degree in planetary ecology with a minor in xeno-biochemistry.” She exhaled. “I need to do something. I’m looking after our twins but I need something for myself and ways to interact with other adults in meaningful ways.”

~Melaia Reez

“Twins…huh.” said Najma with a grin. “Reez I am sorry about my demeanor earlier. I am just....anyway, yes. I am aware of your service history. It’s impressive and certainly more than I have accomplished. But it seems none of that really matter when you abandon your career to have children. Does it?”

Melaia’s brows rose. “Priorities can change,” she said slightly dryly.

“Sure they do.” Najma scoffed. She still didn’t understand why a capable high ranking officer would leave to go raise children.

Najma could not help it she felt better when she was being mean. She continued in a nice but very fake voice. “I have no problem with bringing you aboard as scientist but are you sure you are ready? I mean how does it feel to now be a CIVILIAN scientist compared to once running an entire ship.” Najma smirked as she looked at her.

N. Moreino

There was a certain gaze a commanding officer developed when dealing with difficult crew in all sorts of situations and while it wasn’t always appropriate to come out, it was a hard thing to let go of. It was a piercing gaze that often brooked no argument and clear meant that the bearer wasn’t about to take anyone’s crap. “I don’t know yet,” she said honestly. “This is the first time I’ve gone back to work and been a civilian scientist. Guess we’ll find out, now won’t we?”

~Melaia Reez

“Perhaps we will,” said Najma as she looked at Reez. She removed the smirk and cleared her throat as she continued. Najma knew the gaze. Her actions and words often subjected her to those types of gazes and most of the time she deserved them. “I am sure I don’t have to tell you that the science labs are no place for fledgling human creatures or offspring…whatever they are called. Just be sure you have adequate care for them. I wouldn’t want to be held responsible for any incidents.”
She looked at her for a moment and a genuine smile formed on her face, “In any case, you are a qualified and capable Star-fleet officer. You sitting here is a formality.” She stood up and held out her hand. Welcome to the science team, Reez.”

N. Moreino