Oliver stood outside the Chief Engineer’s office straightening his uniform. He’d been doing so for at least a full minute, trying to make sure it looked presentable. Even after four years at the Academy, he still hadn’t gotten used to the feeling. Finally he breathed in and thought to himself, Don’t worry. You got this. It’s just like pulling apart cars back home. Except for it being nothing like that. Just try not to make a fool of yourself.

With that rousing pep talk to himself, he raised his right hand and pressed the chime on the door.

• Oliver Pierce, Ensign Extraordinaire