Commander Addison MacKenzie - A Scientific Challenge

[Addison MacKenzie]

(( Captain’s Ready Room, Deck 1, USS Artemis-A ))

 

After reviewing and approving the Caitian’s assignment orders, she had welcomed the newest addition to the sciences department. Addison folded her hands and rested them on the surface of her desk, eager to get to know more about the woman who had been one of her examinees at the Academy.

 

MacKenzie: This is the first time I’ve had one of my examinees assigned to my own ship – what did you think of your final exam?

 

Lorana: I found the final exam challenging, if I'm permitted to be honest. I was assigned a security posting, which left me unprepared, yet I believe that may have been the purpose of the exam. 

 

The CO raised her eyebrows in a slightly dismissive manner.

 

MacKenzie: Well, the whole idea is to get you faced off against a very real scenario to see how well you do under pressure. I think the reasoning behind that should have become clear when you were thrown into the fire as soon as you arrive on board the Artemis…

 

Lorana: Absolutely… it was a learning curve … I hadn't expected my first day to be so … eventful. I was a little concerned, given that many humanoids cultures place a lot of emphasis in first impressions. 

 

Addison shook her head softly.

 

MacKenzie: No, no, you did very well. Truthfully, it was a relief to see that you’d been assigned to this ship because I knew we were not only getting a good officer, but a talented scientist. So, tell me, do you have any particular areas of scientific expertise? The Academy exam doesn’t really allow for the opportunity to get to know any of the cadets, but since you’re on my crew now, I think the question is relevant.

 

It was true - Lorana was one of the most well-performing cadets in her class, and Addison had written an evaluation to that effect. She was now the beneficiary of having the Caitian on her crew.

 

Lorana: Thank you, Commander, for your kind words. I'll do everything I can to live up to your expectations. My scientific specialties are within astrophysics and exogeology, namely planets, planetoids, meteors, comet's and astral phenomen. Anything that floats in space, I'm your girl. I served aboard a transport ship before joining Starfleet, and I gained a particular interest in those things. I actually have an extensive rock collection, that I'd be happy to show you, if you'd like?

 

The Caitian smiled, and Addison returned one in kind.

MacKenzie: I’d be glad to take a look sometime – I’m sure it’s impressive.

Lorana: Of course, Commander. 

MacKenzie: I have no doubt that your talents will be well served on board – the Luna class was designed as a science vessel, after all.

Lorana: I'll do my best. 

Addison nodded.

 

MacKenzie: I know you will.

 

Her mind drifted slightly, thinking about the Caitian’s specialty. There may be an opportunity to put her expertise to good use immediately. Addison’s gaze once again fixated on the Caitian.

 

MacKenzie: Astrophysics and exogeology, you said?

 

Lorana: Response

 

The redheaded CO nodded slowly.

 

MacKenzie: How are you with keeping secrets?

 

Addison’s eyes held the Caitian’s – a non-verbal cue that she was alluding to something serious and out of bounds for most of the crew.

 

Lorana: Response

 

MacKenzie: Lieutenant Dakora and Ensign Jovenan are working on an investigation for me – there is evidence to suggest that the meteor that struck Tecra may have been purposefully diverted to do so.

 

Lorana: Response

 

She nodded.

 

MacKenzie: Something that I hope your expertise may be able to help uncover for us. You should report to Lieutenant Dakora – I’ll let him know you’re coming. If there’s nothing else…?

 

Lorana: Response

 

MacKenzie: ::offering a reassuring smile:: Very well, then. Welcome aboard, Ensign.

 

 

 

Tag, and End Scene for MacKenzie 

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Commander Addison MacKenzie, M.D., Ph.D., FASFS
Commanding Officer
USS Artemis-A

Captains Council Magistrate

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