“What is that?” a civilian asked another civilian as a tall bird-like alien dressed in a starfleet science uniform strode past them from the docking ports.

“I don’t know,” the other one replied, watching as the beaked, feathered and scaled individual continued walking.

Suddenly, the object of their scrutiny stopped, and approached the two civilians.

“Gentlemen,” the Starfleet officer said, “I’m an Avisarite and new to the Outpost. Could you direct me to the Science Labs and the XO’s office, please?”

“Of course, Lieutenant,” one of the civilians said, “my apologies if we were rude before.”

“No, you weren’t rude,” the Avisarite assured him, “as a scientist, I encourage questioning and the search for understanding and knowledge. My name is Cherp’Eng.”

“I can show you the way, Sir,” the other civilian said, and did so, forced to move at a quick gait to keep up with the pace set by Cherp’Eng.

• Cherp’Eng, Scientist