Ensign Sival: Untimely Introductions
James Scott Schumann
(( Crew Quarters, USS Juneau ))
It was not often that Sival got to adorne casual attire for official functions. To some, the concept might seem illogical and contradictory - how can an event be both casual and official, a Vulcan might argue. Pick one or the other. But it didn’t seem that way to Sival. To Sival, this was a “both / and“ moment, when both possibilities could be true at the same time. And life was made up of many more “both / and“ moments than “one or the other” moments. Sival’s life, especially.
For this event, Sival found his most festive sweater, then he threw that aside and decided to pull out all of the stops - his most festive * turtleneck * sweater. He held it up high in front of him, nodding in approval. He smiled ever so slightly at the thought that the shade of grey might be too bright and rebellious for a Starfleet event, but Sival had already thrown caution into the wind, so he may as well go with it. (Once he got on an impulsive tangent like this, it was difficult to get him off from it, no matter how dangerous it became). He finished off his outfit with some black slacks. Hopeful that he wouldn’t cause too many gasps and stares, Sival made his way to the transporter room.
(( Awards Ceremony, Central Mall, Lightside Station ))
To Sival’s delight, the ceremony had been going well. It was, of course, with its formal elements, with, among other recognitions, a promotion and even his CO receiving a commendation. As she received her honor, Sival felt a sense of satisfaction for her, and he thought again how fortunate he was to be on her team. The function also had its informal elements, with the crew mingling in small groups - the Juneau’s crew building cohesion and comradery. Even Lt. Tito, who he had so harshly struck up against a couple times before, seemed to be engaged in conversation. Sival found himself agreeing with his human nature that told him that these social functions were not only relevant, but they were, in fact, quite essential. A “both / and” event, indeed.
Even though he believed he understood it, and he tried to embrace it, that didn’t make the social function any easier for the half-Vulcan. Nevertheless, he believed in “opposite action”, that is, resisting what you are prone to do and getting yourself out of your comfort zone. Sival wanted to return to the ship now that the ceremony portion of the event had ended, so he did the opposite and stayed. He wanted to stand by himself and ponder (a happy pastime for Sival), so he did the opposite and actively sought out someone to talk to.
He looked around, and he saw everyone engaged in conversation, except for one Bajoran at the bar. It was the captain. Sival didn’t drink, but here was an opportunity for Sival to introduce himself to the captain personally. He had only spoken to her over the com channel up until this point.
Sival decided to employ a casual greeting. He addressed the captain.
Sival: Captain, kudos on a well-received ceremony. You and the crew seem to be enjoying themselves. Is that Romulan ale that I spy in your glass?
Oddas: Just enjoying the feeling for a moment.
Sival hoped he wasn't interrupting. He suddenly got the sense that perhaps the captain wanted to be alone for the moment. Still, to leave the conversation now would be bad form. Sival pressed forward.
Sival: As you should. You have a crew that would make any captain proud.
Oddas: Some things are worth going into the breach for.
Sival: Indeed. There are few higher bonds than the one between a captain and her crew. And I am honored to be among it. Ensign Sival, it’s agreeable to finally meet you in person, Captain.
And Sival was telling the truth. Based on his short time with them, and what he witnessed them being recognized for today, he was pleased to be among such company.
Oddas: Response
Sival wasn’t exactly sure if the Captain recognized him. It was fine, as their conversation had been agreeable and worthy of a first meeting and impression anyway.
Sival: I have just transferred aboard as a doctor... I was fortunate enough to witness your test flight - your performance was satisfactory. You maintained your focus well. You were ‘cool under pressure’, to use a human expression.
Oddas: Response
Sival: You were just as even-headed officiating the awards ceremony as well. Of all the duties of Captain, this must be a rewarding one for you.
Oddas: Response
TAG / TBC
Ensign Sival
Medical Officer
USS Juneau, NX-99801
J239808S11