Lt Cmdr. Avander Promontory: The Medium Goodbye
Avander Promontory
(( Observation Lounge, Deck 1, USS Octavia E. Butler, New Bajor Orbit ))
Avander was replacing Iljor as XO and it seemed the demands of the latter’s new role would be taking him away soon. As if to accentuate the point, a reminder chimed over the speakers.
Etan: I have to be getting on. I’m needed in a meeting shortly and then I have to beam to the ship in order to meet with the quartermaster and the head of non-commissioned personnel.
Promontory: They’ll at least let you stay till the end of leave. (beat) And the awards ceremony, right? (beat) You are still recovering, after all.
Avander wasn’t quite ready for the last goodbye.
Etan: Of course. :: he said reassuringly.:: And they still have to do some testing of all the new systems. I don’t officially take command for a few more days- unless some sort of galactic crisis emerges. Which- :: he said with a mock sigh :: -you can never rule out.
Promontory: Don’t jinx it!
It seemed like every few months the crew was dragged into some crisis or another. Iljor had helped shepherd their crew through a fair few of them as FO.
Promontory: You’re leaving some big shoes to fill.
The Bajoran clapped his hand on the back of Avander’s back with some sense of finality—perhaps symbolically transferring his authority to his replacement.
Etan: You have got this, Avander. :: he used the man’s name for the first time during that conversation. :: Take care of the Butler, and the Butler will take care of you.
While the words were encouraging to Avander, they felt almost more important for Iljor to say. Avander gave what he hoped was a solemn nod of understanding and respect.
Promontory: Yes sir, I shall. (beat) And clear sailing to you in your new venture..
Iljor turned to the door, He started for the door on the port side of the room, and then stopped to drop one last pearl of wisdom.
Etan: Just don’t let Nilsen crash the ship.
And with that, he walked through the doors of the Octavia E. Butler’s Observation Lounge for the last time.
Avander lingered in the empty room a few moments longer, took one last look out the windows, and went to work.
[[ End Scene for Avander Promontory ]]
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