Posted by Lieutenant Commander Stephen Stous (XO) in Security Office - Meeting with the CoS

Posted by Lieutenant Junior Grade Cassidy Abrams (Chief of Security) in Security Office - Meeting with the CoS

Posted by Lieutenant Commander Stephen Stous (XO) in Security Office - Meeting with the CoS
Posted by… suppressed (2) by the Post Ghost! 👻

(snip)

He thought for another moment, this one shorter, his fingers not even having time to make it to his chin. “I don’t plan on changing much in the day-to-day - not really my job to do that. “I did mention I was here to get to know the senior staff. You’ve been on the Europa longer than I’ve been an officer. So please,” he leaned back in the chair, trying his best to appear more comfortable and in control than he was. “Tell me about yourself and anything you think I ought to know about the ship.”

~ Stephen Stous - XO

“Well, I started out in science, though I had tested with high aptitudes in security as well at the Academy. I science for years until different incidents made me feel like I was ready for a change. I was approved for the shift to security and I studied under the Chief of Security. He took me under his wing, so to speak, and I excelled. After his departure, the captain promoted me.”

Cass leaned forward again, resting her arms on the desk. “You see, Commander, I’m a lot like this ship. You think you’re getting one thing, but reality is really different,”she said with a grin. “We’re a science vessel and that is what we do, but far too often our adventures have strayed else into other realms. Sometimes quite literally. So what you need as first officer is to be prepared for the unexpected. And in between those times it’s quiet. Sometimes unnervingly so.”

Abrams, COS

“Quiet I’m used to. The other stuff… that might take some practice.”

Stephen had of course read Abrams’s file, and was at least partially aware of the background of her switch to Security. Her description of that background was not all that descriptive, though it was remarkably revealing how little she talked about it. Still, she was clearly qualified, and Stephen of all people could appreciate a varied and diverse experiential background.

“I appreciate the candor, and I will do my best, though it is my hope that our first venture will be into one of the less dangerous realms.” The smile that followed this quickly faded, and Stephen leaned forward again, clasping his hands.

“Last thing, I promise, then you can get back to your work. I imagine you’ve read my file, as I have yours. I know I always liked knowing what I could about my command staff, and you seem experienced. So in all honesty, what do you see me struggling with the most?”

~ Stephen Stous - XO

Cassidy gave the man’s question due consideration and didn’t rush her response. “You’ve done a lot of different things, and that is good. You’re well-rounded. But there are people here who have devoted their careers to one area, or even one specific sliver of it. My suggestion is to spend time getting to know topics on a deeper level. People always appreciate being able to have someone meet them part way when it comes to intellectual discussion. We’ve a lot of scientists on board, and it’s our mission profile. Yes, the operations of the ship will be your primary concern, but take an active interest in what people are researching. You never know what interesting things you’ll learn or how you might later be able to put someone’s skills to good use.”

Abrams, COS

Stephen nodded along in understanding as Abrams spoke. “Wise advice. I’ll do my best. As you said, I have an appreciable width of knowledge, but not necessarily a good depth in all departments. I’m hoping DH reports can help on that end.”

Cassidy also nodded. “That they will, even if they will be drier.”

He inhaled and slapped his knees, beginning to stand. “Well, I don’t think I have much else.” He paused slightly mid-stand, looking back up at Cass. “Unless there’s anything else I can answer…?”

~ Stephen Stous - XO

“Not off the top of my head.” She rose as well. Abrams didn’t mind the quick conversation, since more could be learned about a person in going about their daily life and in more social situations than in a breif meet and greet.

“Welcome to the Europa Commander,” she said with a smile, offering her hand to shake.

Abrams, COS