<USS Cervantes> Equivocation

"Equivocation"
Ashne'e Al Kiara
Saskia Lar
 
A small nap had refreshed Ashne'e's optimism considerably. She turned.
"Lieutenant Lar, thank you for coming."
Saskia had been shaking off the strange effects of her breakfast with
Bell when she had received the captain's summons. "What can I help you
with, sir?"
            "You're aware that Lieutenant Tryn is taking a leave of
absence," Ashne'e indicated. "You will need to take over the duties in
sickbay until she returns."
            Saskia stiffened slightly. "Yes, sir, I had assumed that
that responsibility might fall to me."
            "It is a lot of responsibility to place on your shoulders,
the burden of the crew's health in combination with your own
investigation and research," Ashne'e admitted gravely, searching
Saskia's face. "I have reviewed your record, and I believe that you are
equal to the tasks."
            "That responsibility is what I signed up for when I joined
Starfleet," Lar replied, working not to break her superior officer's
gaze. "I appreciate your confidence in me, Admiral. I can..." She
paused. "I hope not to disappoint you."
            "I am positive you won't." When Ashne'e was exercising her
Starfleet persona, her face was always impassive, her motives as
complexly hidden as if they had been spirited away behind lock and key.
"I would also like to invite you to accept the rank of Senior Lieutenant
on the basis of your excellent work here. Think carefully. It may mean
more responsibility."
            In the past, when Ashne'e had made a similar offer, she was
always pleased to see the brightness it brought to the crewman's face,
as if finally, finally, he knew his work was appreciated. Saskia, in
contrast, looked as if someone were slowly, slowly pressing their hands
against the surface of her face, and she seemed to be trying to hide the
fact that she was even feeling any pressure. "It would be a great
responsibility. I will take that into consideration."
            "Let me know when you have decided." Turning her attention
away from the Lieutenant, toward the ethereal glow radiating from the
viewscreen, she continued, "The ship will need a second officer before
we launch on our next mission. If you have not contacted me before I
announce our next mission statement, then I will assume you are
declining. Dismissed, Lieutenant."

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