First Hurdle Cleared

Posted on Thu Jul 4th, 2024 @ 8:45am by Lieutenant Kevin Bianchi Ph.D. & Lieutenant JG Rosalind Paget
Edited on on Thu Jul 4th, 2024 @ 8:48am

1,360 words; about a 7 minute read

Mission: Silver Rain
Location: Turbolift
Timeline: MD1 - 0835 Hours

Following their meeting with Captain Culver and Commander Lorut, Kevin and Rosalind left the bridge and entered the turbolift. The chief counselor turned to his companion and gave her a smile.

"That wasn't so bad, was it?" he said optimistically, though his usually bright smile dimmed a few watts, and a slightly distant look came over his eyes. "We've got our work cut out for us though, don't we?"

"Could have been worse I suppose." Rosalind replied wryly " but yes we do." A moment passed giving each the chance to think what was in store.
"In a grim sort of way I'm looking forward to it though." she said watching Kevins expression to see what he thought to that idea.

"Well, you know me... I like a challenge," Kevin replied, which was the truth. It was working with an active crew again that he wasn't sure how it would go. While working for the Integration Program he didn't have to chase down people for their appointments; they usually came of their own free will. With this crew, however, he had a feeling he might need to be a bit more proactive.

"So, there's a senior officers' briefing that I need to attend at 0900," Kevin said. "I'd like you to attend to, but don't worry - you'll be there as eyes and ears only. Before that, I thought we could take the time to settle into our quarters. We won't be on the same deck, but I can walk you to yours if you like?"

The thought of a second formal meeting brought a tang of dread to Rosalind but it was off-set by the better prospect of seeing her quarters.
"I'd like that if you don't mind." she replied.

"Deck 16, then," Kevin said. "Same deck as Sickbay and our offices, which is handy. My quarters are on Deck 3 with the rest of the senior staff."

Rosalind nodded as it was to be expected ofcourse. Her mind returned to the recent meeting. After a moment or two she said.
"I'm sure the Captain is a perfectly ok person but he scared me witless." She shook her head and gave an audible sigh.
"I've never been one of those loud mouthed, 'in your face' type of people and I dont want to be." she added to wipe any doubt "... but now it's gone to the other extreme. I can count on one hand the number of people I'm at ease to talk to....and have fingers to spare."

"I get it... I do," he replied gently, having seen this in many other patients with Rosalind's background. "Captain Culver can seem... intense. But remember, he's just a person like anyone else. And you don't need to be loud or 'in your face' to be effective at your job."

He paused for a moment, considering his words carefully. "You know, your ability to observe and listen quietly can be a real strength in our line of work. Sometimes, the most insightful moments come from those who speak less but notice more. There were plenty of times back at the Integration Facility when your observations and insight meant more to the group than mine did."

This statement brought an expression of doubt to her pale face.

Kevin's tone became more encouraging as he continued, "As for being at ease with people, that'll come with time. You're already doing great by being here, taking on this challenge. And hey, you're talking to me right now, aren't you? That's progress."

A flicker of a smile gone as soon as it appeared. "Yes, I suppose it is... yes."

The turbolift slowed as they approached Deck 16. "Look, we're a team. I'm still your counselor, but I'm also your colleague now... and your friend. I've got your back, and I know you've got mine. We'll tackle this together, one step at a time. And if you ever feel overwhelmed, just let me know. That's what I'm here for."

As the doors opened, Kevin gestured for Rosalind to exit first. "Now, let's go find those quarters of yours. I hear the view of the nacelles from Deck 16 is pretty spectacular."

She stepped out but glanced back at him as he followed uncertain as to whether or not he was joking.

"Let's see..." Kevin said as they stepped out into the corridor and looked around. "Computer, please provide directions to Lieutenant Paget's quarters."

"Lieutenant Paget's quarters are located on Deck 16, Cabin 27," the computer's voice replied. "Please follow the arrows to your destinations."

Yellow arrows appeared on the display panels against the wall and directed them down the corridor and around a corner to their left.
The first door showed their destination with a modest plaque of 'Paget.R.Lt JG'
Rosalind had memorised the code, tapped in 6 digits and waited for the door to slide back allowing her into her new home.
Once again she led the way but stood in the centre of the main room looking around.
" Gosh..this is so spacious..not at all what I had before."

As Kevin and Rosalind stepped into her new quarters on Deck 16, they were greeted by a spacious and modern single bedroom-living area. The room was bathed in soft light from overhead panels, giving the space an airy feel.

The main living area featured sleek, metallic floors that reflected the light, making the room seem even larger. To their right, a comfortable-looking bed with blue Starfleet bedding was built into an alcove, providing a cozy sleeping area. Between the door and the alcove, a small replicator was ensconced in the wall. Directly across from the entrance, a curved desk with a matching chair offered a dedicated workspace. To the left, a seating area with an ergonomic designed blue chair provided a spot for relaxation or casual meetings.

The walls were a neutral gray, adorned with geometric patterns and illuminated panels that added visual interest without being overwhelming. Storage compartments were seamlessly integrated into the walls, and an open doorway at the far end of the room led to a small bathroom.

Kevin smiled, taking in the room. "Definitely a step up," he agreed with her sentiment. Walking through the room over to three angular windows against the opposite wall, he peered through and nodded, looking pleased with himself. "They weren't lying about the nacelle. It looks quite impressive from here."

Rosalind had sat on the bed..comfortable..then had a quick look into the bathroom before joining Kevin at the windows.

"It does." she agreed looking up to the huge structure. Last time her quarters had been small and compact with one window half the size of these looking out into space. It occurred to her that for some reason the nacelle was more comforting. "It's impressive." she said turning back to the room.

"Good," Kevin replied, glancing down at her. "I'm glad you like it." He knew her well enough by now to know that, even if she didn't spell out, she approved of her new room and would settle in well enough in due course. Being an active Starfleet officer again, on the other hand, was something that might take a little longer than simply settling into a new room. But he believed she could do it and was determined to do it... otherwise she wouldn't be here in the first place.

"I want to have a look around my quarters before the meeting starts, but I'll meet you outside the observation lounge in... let's say 20 minutes?" Kevin suggested, glancing at the chronometer on his wrist for the time.

"Alright." she agreed with a short nod and semblance of a small smile.
"I'll...ummm...find out what's happened to my luggage if it hasnt arrived when I get back."

"Hopefully mine hasn't gotten lost," Kevin replied he headed for the door. "See you in a bit," he added with a wink, tapping the door frame with one hand before disappearing down the corridor.

She followed to the doorway. "See you soon." she told him as he stepped out and watched him for a moment as he strode away.

-

Lieutenant Kevin Bianchi
Chief Counselor

Lieutenant JG Rosalind Paget
Counselor's Aide

 

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