An unexpected transfer

Posted on Fri Sep 22nd, 2023 @ 9:32am by Commander Joren Tal

1,070 words; about a 5 minute read

Mission: Broken Mirror
Location: Joren's quarters, USS Vanguard
Timeline: Before Joren's transfer

With a small sigh, Joren sat behind his desk in his quarters. A PADD discarded on the side with the news, he attended the computer.

"Computer, subspace call to Eliana Tal, USS Helianthus"

"Commencing subspace call to the USS Helianthus" the computer answered. Not much later, the face of Joren's sister appeared on the screen.
"Hi sis, how 'u doin'?" Joren said.

"Hey Joren! It's been too long. I'm doing alright, busy as always. How are things on the Vanguard?"

"Well, that's what I'm calling for... I've gotten a transfer order." Joren couldn't help a sidelong glance to the PADD to his side.

"Oh? That's sudden. Where are they sending you? Is everything okay?" Eilana's brow furrowed on the screen.

"I mean, other than the odd looks from bein' ex-marquis? Nah. Felt I gelled quite nicely. Captain Morais's a good captain. Bit soft around the edges, but guess that made us a good team. Imma be stationed at the USS Calypso. It's a Galaxy II class starship from what I heard."

"I've heard of the USS Calypso. It's one of the newer models, right? Sounds like an exciting opportunity. But, Joren... are you okay with this? You seemed to have found your groove on the Vanguard. This isn't because of your Maquis past, is it?" A touch of worry and anxiety in her voice.

"Well, these pencil pushers never actually tell me anything, so your guess is as good as mine. I think it's a good thing. Big ship. Will be second in command over a thousand or more people. Heard its not just a captain in command, but a Commodore. But hell sis, I can't deny I'm not at least a little anxious." Joren chuckled softly. "Here I am, gone through hell and back against the Cardassians, afraid of a new posting"

Eliana let out a soft laugh, "You've always been tougher against external threats than internal ones. Remember when you were terrified of that P'trallian spider but faced down three Cardassian soldiers without batting an eye? Just remember, you're Joren Tal. Maquis or Starfleet, you've always found a way. The USS Calypso crew will be lucky to have you. And hey, serving under a Commodore? That's big leagues."

"Thanks sis, I... I think I needed to hear that. How's things on your end?"

"Same old, same old. Busy days in the medical bay, a few weird space viruses here and there. But I've been working on some new research projects, and they're shaping up well. Honestly, Joren, sometimes I envy the action you see out there. But then I remember how much I love my lab." She chuckled, "Oh, and guess what? I might be presenting a paper at the next Intergalactic Medical Symposium!"

"Well look at you. I will admit, I do not envy your lab, but you're doin' important work. What's the paper about?" Joren didn't actually care for the paper, but he knew his sister'd appreciate him asking.

"It's actually about a rare neural condition we encountered on our last mission to the Zeltron system. There's a species there, the Virellians, who were experiencing what looked like mass hallucinations. Turned out to be a unique neural parasite. I've been researching its biology and potential treatments. It's been challenging but also incredibly fascinating. Thanks for asking, Joren. I always appreciate your interest, even if medical jargon isn't really your thing." She gave a teasing smile.

"I'll admit you lost me halfway there. But if it's important enough for you to present it at the Intergalactic Medical Symposium, it's gotta be important." A small proud smile for his sister cracked Joren's face.

Eliana laughed, "I promise I'll break it down into simpler terms next time we meet. But thanks, Joren. It means a lot. And who knows, one of these days you might just need the info. Space is full of mysteries, after all. Now, any plans before you move to the USS Calypso?"

"Packing up my stuff, saying goodbye to the captain, then a couple of shuttle rides to my destination. Can only hope the transporter leaves my Lumina Flowers intact..."

"I remember you mentioning those flowers from Setlik III. They're quite sentimental for you, aren't they? If the transporter messes them up, just give me a call. I've gotten pretty good at botany alongside my medical practice. Between the two of us, we might be able to save them or grow a new batch. Hang in there, big brother. Transitions are always tough, but you've got this."

"I'm sure you have something... 'sentimental' in your quarters. For me, it's my miniature botanical garden." After a short pause "Sorry sis, didn't mean to go on the defensive there."

"It's okay, Joren. Everyone has something they hold onto, especially out here in the vastness of space. For me, it's mom's old medical journals. They remind me of home, of her. It's our way of staying grounded. I understand your attachment to your garden. Just remember, wherever you go, you carry our memories and heritage with you. Plants or journals, they're just symbols." She gave a reassuring smile. "Always here for you, Joren. No need to be defensive."

"Thanks. 'Fraid I gotta go now, don't wanna miss my own shuttle." Joren let out a small chuckle. "Take care of yourself, sis. I know you're about as safe as can be on the USS Helianthus, but... y'know... wouldn't want to lose you."

Eliana's eyes softened, "I know, Joren. Always the protective big brother. You take care too, alright? And don't be a stranger. We might be light-years apart, but we've always got subspace comms. Safe travels to the USS Calypso. I have a feeling they're in for a treat with you on board. Until next time." She offered a warm smile, her voice carrying a mix of pride and affection.

"Of course, sis. But for now, 'later." Joren gruffly ended the subspace call. Mostly because he didn't know any other way. Sitting back, he grabbed the PADD once more. Reading the words once more. "We are pleased to announce you will be transferred to the USS Calypso, to take up the role of Executive Officer. You are expected to report with Commodore York at the earliest convenience."

"Well, here goes nothing." Joren muttered as he stood up, ready to face the next challenge.

 

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