Posted March 19, 2021, 9:39 a.m. by Lieutenant Commander Vanessa Lofton (Counselor) (Nathan Miller)
<snip>
The counsellor’s reassuring words, allied to her friendly and open demeanour, brought an answering smile to Miya’s lips. She knew, of course, that this was all part of Vanessa’s role, but after the stress of meeting her new department head for the first time, it was pleasant to engage in a more relaxed conversation.
Vanessa’s question about growing up with two vedeks was so unexpected that she laughed. “Well, to me they were just my mum and dad! They were both ranjen when I was born - that’s the level above a prylar, which was the rank that I held before … before I left for Starfleet. My mother became a vedek first, then my father, but I was still quite young at the time and didn’t really notice much of a difference, except they were called away more often to minister to people or to settle disputes.” Miya shrugged; that had been normal to her - it wasn’t anything special. Like the Prophets themselves, the existence of her parents’ roles was simply part of her life.
She frowned slightly, recalling when the situation had changed. “I suppose their rank had more impact when I joined the priesthood myself. You probably know that our faith is at the centre of Bajoran life; it sustained us during the Occupation and helped us fight against the invaders.” Miya’s tone grew colder as she mentioned the terrible events which had changed Bajor, and its people, forever. “When I was given the chance to serve the Prophets by becoming a prylar, my parents also became my superiors in the faith. But we agreed that, whenever I was at home, we would avoid our ranks and simply be family, linked by love and by faith.” Her fingers gently brushed the d’ja pagh earring which dangled from her right ear, a reflexive gesture.
“I serve Starfleet now, and the Federation, but I also serve the will of the Prophets. And, through them, I honour my parents. It’s … it’s just who I am. Who we, Bajorans, are.” Miya offered Vanessa a half-embarrassed smile. “I’m sorry, you probably didn’t want all these details. I can get quite enthusiastic when I start explaining our religion - it’s probably why I don’t talk about it too often!” She ducked her head, taking a long swallow of water to counteract her dry throat.
[Cadet Ven Miya]
OOC: Yep, great!
IC: Vanessa laughed with Miya. “I suppose they would just be mum and dad. I’m glad you found life balance when you joined the clergy as well - that’s important. And don’t be embarrassed about you enthusiasm! We all need something to give us purpose in life, and it sounds like you’ve found yours, which is wonderful.”
She took another sip of chocolate, pondering her next question. “You’ve been out of the clergy for a few years now, though. How has that transition been?”
Lt. Cmdr. Lofton - CNS
“Well ....” Miya’s smile faded; she glanced down at the glass of water in her hands, then looked back up again. “It wasn’t easy at first, I’ll admit. When I became a prylar, I expected I’d stay on Bajor and follow in the footsteps of my parents, dedicating my life to the Prophets and to my people. When I was told about the vision ....” she shook her head, remembering with searing clarity the moment that had turned her life on its head, “I was - how can I explain? On the one hand, all my expectations changed but - oh, Vanessa! The Prophets had chosen me! Me, Ven Miya, to be a - a link, a bridge, between my people and the Federation! ”
Her smile was dazzling, transcendent; for a moment, sheer joy radiated from her then, like clouds covering a sun, it dimmed. “That’s what helped me through those first few months at Starfleet Academy - knowing the Prophets chose me to do this. Because it was hard, of course it was hard, to say goodbye to my parents - I’m their only child. But at least I was doing the Prophets’ bidding, which helped us all with the … transition, you said. Yes, that’s a good word for it. With the transition.” She glanced back to Vanessa, a small smile reappearing.
“Because once I settled into the Academy, I knew I was in the right place. And now, I’m here!” Miya looked around the blue room, taking in its calming ambience. When she returned her gaze to Vanessa, her smile was broad and genuine. “Truly, the Prophets know best.”
[Cadet Ven Miya]
The cadet’s enthusiasm was infectious, and Vanessa felt her own smile growing as Miya spoke. “Change is never easy,” she said softly. “But it sounds like you have come through the process very well - better than most I’d say, and that sense of purpose we spoke about is likely the reason.”
She rolled the mug between her hands, enjoying the warmth. “So, how did you settle into the Academy socially? Did you make many friends, do any extracurriculars?”
Lt. Cmdr. Lofton - CNS
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