Posted by Civilian Elijah Mercer (Professor / Scientific Advisor) in Elijah’s OED Odyssey: An OED Welcome [Open]

Posted by Civilian Jason Reilly (Assistant Director - Colonial Intelligence Agency) in Elijah’s OED Odyssey: An OED Welcome [Open]

Posted by Civilian Elijah Mercer (Professor / Scientific Advisor) in Elijah’s OED Odyssey: An OED Welcome [Open]
The pneumatic doors of Elijah Loughty’s newly assigned apartment inside the Sky Habour Tower swished open with the all too familiar sound, beyond them and over the threshold revealed a space that would serve as his home in the vast complex that was OED. He was fortunate to have received such a location given the limited space but having served at the academy and as a professor allowed him to sway some influence, what good was it being a retired Starfleet officer if you couldn’t at least sue your reputation? That and some favours he now owed some admirals and academy instructors. As he stepped inside, a hushed sigh escaped him, a blend of fatigue and excitement. The walls were adorned with muted hues and metallic grey. Elijah took a moment to absorb the ambience, the hum of the life support systems, and the soft glow of ambient lighting creating a welcoming atmosphere. The apartment was surprisingly spacious and exuded a sense of comfort.

With a quick sweep of his gaze, Elijah took in the minimalist yet tasteful furnishings. A small living area embraced the essence of simplicity, while the kitchenette held the promise of future meals to be prepared, a hobby he hoped to indulge in during quieter moments. The bedroom, though modest, carried the promise of restful nights. He would have to take a trip to the commercial District and begin to add his personal touch to the apartment.

Setting his duffel bag down, Elijah moved towards the large viewport that dominated one wall. Beyond the transparent alloy, the unfamiliar landscape of OED unfolded—a tapestry of twinkling stars against the colony’s skyline. It was a view that reminded him of the boundless potential encapsulated within the colony’s mission. As he stood there, a mix of emotions coursed through him—the weariness of the journey, the thrill of embarking on a new chapter, and the eagerness to unravel the mysteries OED held. Elijah, with a sense of gratitude and anticipation, murmured to himself, “Home, at least for now.”

Little did he know, within the confines of this modest apartment, Elijah Loughty’s journey on OED was destined to intertwine with the pulse of scientific discovery, forging connections, and weaving tales of exploration yet to unfold. Perhaps some of those journies and forging connections were going to be sooner rather than later as his door chimed. He moved to the door and opened it.

Elijah Mercer
Professor / Scientific Advisor
Oed V

A human male stood at the door. He was only slightly shorter than Mercer, but had similar build. Well styled brown hair sat above piercing green eyes. His face had a warm and friendly smile, and he seemed at ease meeting the new tenant for the first time. He was also wearing a very nice suit and carrying a bottle in his hand. The other hand extended forward and he said “Hi! My name is Jason Reilly. I live a few floors up, but I heard that there was someone moving on so I thought I would stop by and welcome you to the building.”

Reilly

Elijah met Jason’s extended hand with his own, presenting him with a firm yet polite handshake that mirrored the warmth of the welcome he received. Such personal greetings, outside the realm of official norms and standard procedures, pleasantly surprised him. “Elijah Mercer,” he introduced himself with a smile. “It’s refreshing to meet a neighbour who not only extends a warm welcome but also has a keen sense of style. Is this your usual approach with new citizens?” he inquired, genuinely curious about the informal gesture. His eyes then drifted to the bottle in Jason’s hand, a subtle indicator of friendliness.

“Hundreds of new residents arrive every day, but few move into the building. I’m sure as the newness of the tower becomes more appealing, we will be looking a plethora of new neighbors.” Jaosn said with a smile.

Observing the friendliness, Elijah suggested, “Would you care to come in? While I can’t promise extravagant home comforts just yet, a few words and a friendly conversation might just suffice.” The invitation carried a genuine warmth, reflecting Elijah’s appreciation for the unexpected but delightful encounter.

Elijah Mercer
Professor / Scientific Advisor
Oed V

“I have a moment before my fiancée gets home, so why not?” Jason handed the bottle to Mercer and followed him inside.

Once inside, Reilly took in the space in a few heartbeats and, seeing nothing that peaked his curiosity (professional or otherwise), he turned his attention fully to the resident of the apartment. “So tell me, Mr. Mercer, what brings you to Oed? Bonus points if it a reason I haven’t heard before.” he added with a soft chuckle.

Reilly