Lieutenant Vailani Zoyara - Untested
Luxa Lorana
(( Captain’s Ready Room – Deck 1, USS Artemis-A ))
Vailani: Captain, it's good to see you outside of a Borg cube.
She winced slightly at her own words. Maybe not a wise choice to bring up such traumatic experiences when meeting your new commanding officer. This may be one of those things that various counselors, over the years, had spoken to her about.
Something called ‘people skills’.
However, she couldn't help being reminded of the last time she had seen Captain MacKenzie; lit by green strobe lights and surrounded by decaying Borg technology. It was a difficult memory to sear from your mind.
Sometimes she dreamt of those voices, millions speaking as one. Even now the hairs on the nape of her neck stood on edge.
The Captain indicated one of the seats, and not one to delay a command she dutifully took it. Her back was straight and perched on the edge. She really hoped this wasn’t going to turn into one of those warm and fuzzy moments that some captains enjoyed.
She hadn’t taken MacKenzie for that type, if the rumours of the airlocking were to be believed. And if so, she had known a few officers that would probably benefit from the experience.
MacKenzie: Welcome back, Lieutenant. How does it feel to be back?
Vailani: I'm eager to get started. I reviewed the most recent mission reports en route here from the Alpha Isles so I'm just about up to speed.
MacKenzie: I assume you remember where everything is?
She didn’t mention that she had reacquainted herself with several holographic tours of each deck on the way here. Some might say that was excessive. Preparedness was something Vailani Zoyara was serious about.
oO be casual Oo
Vailani: I can probably find my way around.
MacKenzie offered a smirk and a slight nod.
MacKenzie: Hopefully things are a little less exciting around here than the last time we ran into one another…
oO you can say that again Oo
Vailani: I hope so too, Captain.
Zoyara felt a wave of relief come over her as the Captain handed her a PADD. Work. That was what she was good at. Not small talk with commanding officers, that had only ever gotten her mess hall duty. One did wonder, could a department chief be assigned to the mess?
MacKenzie: There are some new faces in the department, and several that have left since you were last aboard.
She allowed herself a moment to review the crew rotation of the operations department. They had been sorted into specific departmental duties; helm, communication and operations overlayed with the officers particular skill set or specialism. Some of the names she recognised and others, the new faces she assumed, were strangers to her. The ones that were missing, she couldn’t help think of what may have happened to them.
Had they met some ghastly fate? Or simply transferred out?
MacKenzie: I’m curious… How do you feel about your ability to lead those who may have been in the department longer than you but not progressed through the ranks as fast as you have?
The Bajoran woman took her eyes away from the PADD and met the Captain’s. This was a test. One that she didn't feel prepared for. Ask her to list the core systems of a Luna-class or explain the standard protocols of first contact and she wouldn't break a sweat. BUT do not ask her about interpersonal relationships.
Vailani: :: takes a considered breath :: I may not have decades of experience but I've applied myself in all areas. In the few years I've been in Starfleet, I've made it my mission to be exposed to all departments in one way or another. Because I want to be the best that I can be. I know that my leadership abilities may be untested, and perhaps I'm more … decisive than most. Being on the Ronin, with Captain Niac, and the conflict with Lattice Alliance, that taught me more than I expected about people. To listen, be patient or stern as required by the circumstances. And that's how I expect to run my department.
Addison raised an eyebrow. Zoyara held her breath…
MacKenzie: Even those who felt they may have been overlooked for this job?
And let that breath go.
Vailani: Their personal feelings, whilst important to them, have no bearing on my capability to run the department as long as they perform their duties. Of course if you have any advice, I'd be eager to hear it?
Zoyara leaned forward eagerly anticipating any nuggets of wisdom the experienced fleet captain may offer.
MacKenzie: Response
Vailani: Thank you, Captain. I'll keep that in mind.
MacKenzie: Response
Vailani: I feel I have to ask. Is there a particular person that I have to be concerned about sir?
Zoyara was hoping that the transition from her mission specialist role on the Ronin to a Chief of Operations on the Artemis may be smooth, given her previous history with the crew. It was slightly disheartening to learn that that may not be the case.
MacKenzie: Response
Tag, and TBC!
