Pop Quiz (Backpost)

Posted on Tue Jun 18th, 2024 @ 4:09pm by Ensign Liam O'Connor & Lieutenant Didrea Zade

Mission: Character Development
Location: USS Athena :: Security Offices
Timeline: Before "Express Elevator to Hell"
1221 words - 2.4 OF Standard Post Measure

Liam O'Connor. Zade skimmed his file as she waited in her office for him to arrive. Just beyond the desk, the door was open, indicating that she wasn't particularly busy. It also allowed her to see what was happening in the sliver of the security suite that was currently visible from the desk.

The Trill knew that Liam was fresh out of the Academy, very fresh. Ensigns like this only knew what their classes taught them. She wanted to review the security trainings that were part of the required class list, as well as see how much "mission safety" he retained. The reason was twofold: following the planning session with Burke, she wanted to make sure everyone was prepared; and she also wanted to make her standards clear, if not to Zora, then to herself.

Liam excelled at Engineering; it was a passion that had driven him even before his days at the academy. Whether it was fixing, improving, or simply tinkering with systems, he found immense satisfaction in making things work, regardless of whether it meant making them better or just different. Getting his hands dirty was second nature to him. However, when it came to security matters, particularly dealing with security officers and their stringent rules and procedures, Liam felt a distinct discomfort. He preferred the straightforward nature of engineering tasks over the intricacies of security protocols.

As he prepared to meet with the ship's chief Security officer, Liam couldn't shake off his nervousness. Uncertain about the purpose or outcome of the meeting, he found himself in an unusual position. Unlike diagnosing an intermix catalytic converter, he couldn't analyse or assess the Chief Security officer beforehand beyond the rumour and hearsay of the crew.

Stepping into the security office, Liam followed the directions he was given and made his way to the chief's office. Pressing the chime, he waited with a sense of anticipation, trying to maintain his composure.

Looking up from the computer, Zade could see someone waiting on the other side of the open office door. Normally, she'd give the person grief for pressing the chime when they could just poke their head in, but she didn't want to scare the new Ensign just yet. "Enter," she said.

Liam entered, immediately adopting the stiff posture and formal demeanour he had been taught at the academy. "Lieutenant, Ensign O'Connor reporting as requested," he announced, his voice steady but betraying a hint of nervousness. Despite his training, he couldn't help but wish he was back in the familiar confines of the ship's jefferies tubes, elbow-deep in engineering tasks.

Ah, Academy formality. Zade recognized the snap to attention, especially after her recent visit to the Academy to help out one of the security training courses. "At ease, Ensign, before you break something," she said with a faint smile. That line finally made sense now, someone could get whiplash snapping to attention like that. She gestured to one of the two chairs in front of her desk, an invitation to sit. "I'll preface with: you're not in trouble. I wanted to review security protocols with you, the stuff they taught in the Mission Safety and Protocols class. Since this is your first mission out of the Academy, it's my duty to make sure it's not your last."

Liam shifted into the at-ease position, his arms clasped behind his back, legs positioned slightly apart, and shoulders relaxed. "I appreciate your consideration for my safety, sir," he began, his tone measured and confident. "Rest assured, I have demonstrated proficiency in cadet flight away team scenarios, and I am well-versed in away team protocols." His words flowed with a familiarity that echoed his cadet training, though he hoped to convey a sense of readiness and competence.

Even the reply was textbook formal. This would be interesting. Since the Ensign rejected the invitation, Zade brought her hand back and folded her hands on top of the desk. "Good. Then this should be easy for you. I'm sure your instructors mentioned that what you learned in their classes is only a guideline for real world application."

"Of course, that is drawn from experience. I know I am naive and very by the book but until I have my own experience that's all I have" Liam explained.

"You're fresh out of the Academy, that's to be expected. You'll get your experience in due time." Zade turned briefly to her computer, reading some of her notes, before returning her gaze to the Ensign. "We can start with rules of engagement. What takes priority?"

Liam recited the lesson confidently, "There are several variations depending on the circumstance, but the main priority is self-defence. Starfleet personnel have the right to defend themselves when there is a perceived threat to their life, a crewmate, or a civilian. This can justify lethal action. However, this principle is closely followed by the need to minimize collateral damage and ensure proportionality and necessity. We always use the lowest level of force required to neutralize a threat, which is why Starfleet prioritizes stunning over killing whenever possible."

Zade nodded, satisfied with his answer. "Top three mitigation measures when faced with a hazard on an away mission?"

Liam responded promptly, “Clear, cordon, and control. First, we clear the area of personnel and civilians to ensure their safety. This means evacuating everyone from the immediate vicinity to prevent harm and reduce panic. Next, we establish a secure perimeter to cordon off the area, which involves setting up barriers or designated zones to keep unauthorized personnel out and contain any potential risks. This step is crucial in preventing the situation from escalating and ensuring that only those qualified to handle the hazard are within the affected area. Finally, we control the situation by managing resources, personnel, and communication effectively. This involves coordinating with other teams, ensuring that everyone knows their roles, and maintaining clear lines of communication until the hazard has been dealt with by the relevant authorities. These steps are collectively known as the three Cs.”

"Well explained," Zade commented. She asked a couple more questions, and each of his answers were textbook, but she was looking to make sure he understood what he was saying. It seemed like he did, so there was no reason for her to follow up later. Not wanting to scare off the Ensign, she finished typing on her computer before turning to him with a smile. "I appreciate your time, Ensign. I have no further questions. If you ever wish to practice something, my door is open, so please reach out. If you have no questions for me, you are dismissed."

Liam nodded respectfully, "Thank you, Lieutenant Zade. I appreciate your time as well." He gathered his things, making sure not to leave anything behind, and stood up from his seat. "I'll definitely keep that in mind and reach out if I need any guidance or practice."

With that, he turned and walked out of the office, the door sliding shut behind him with a soft hiss. As he made his way down the corridor, his thoughts drifted back to the conversation with Zade. Her questions had been thorough, and her demeanor had been professional but approachable. It was a relief to know that she was someone he could rely on for guidance as he navigated his early career in Starfleet.