Jensen, for whatever reason, always felt the need to hold his breath during the transportation process; maybe he thought he’d materialize with his lungs flipped inside out if he did. Jay inhaled deeply once he was sure all of his atoms had materialized in the correct place and grabbed his duffel bag. He was the first Cadet in a while to be assigned to a front-line starship, instead of a behind-the-scenes ship fully staffed by cadets. Jenson knew all eyes would be on him to decide if the approach would be a success or failure.

“Cadet Jensen Truhart, Helmsman.” Jay said, handing his orders over to the transporter operator. To say he was nervous would be an understatement, but Truhart learned a long time ago how to perfectly wear a fake smile. Jay watched as the operator quickly looked over his orders, then retrieved them once they were confirmed. “Thank you, Petty Officer,” Truhart said as he flung the duffel bag over his shoulder. Putting his PaDD in the back pocket, the Cadet headed out into the corridor. He had all of the usual symptoms of a new situation running through his head; nervousness, excitement, and self-doubt. Jay stopped momentarily to gather his composure, then continued off to the turbolift, ensuring he wore a smile along the way.

“Deck 2, as close to the XO’s office as possible,” Jensen said after the turbolift doors closed behind him. He gave the computer a more in-depth location so he have to find himself lost on his first day. The destination was only a few decks above him, so it only took several seconds for the humming to stop and the doors to open. Cadet Truhart shifted the weight of his bag as he stepped out into the corridor. To his surprise, the XO’s office was a few meters down from the turbolift. Jensen felt a tad awkward dragging his bag with him, but since the XO assigned the quarters there was no place to store it.

Jay smiled and nodded at an officer passing by as he approached the XO’s office. “This is it,” He said, then pressed the chime.

Cadet Truhart