Finding a Job

Posted on Mon Apr 18th, 2022 @ 4:51pm by Renee Weaver MD

Mission: Mission 15: Adrift
Location: Freecloud
Timeline: Recent Past
534 words - 1.1 OF Standard Post Measure

Three years. It had been that long since Renee became a doctor and left Earth. She didn't have an aversion to living and working on a planet, but both her parents served in Starfleet on a ship, so the calling in her to work in space, was something she felt she got from them.

Her time in the black, she learned civilian freighter crews called it that, had been good. She spent time on a number of ships, met many people, and visited places she would never have seen, but she couldn't ever stay in one place. Her work helping people was fulfilling, something she legitimately desired, but there was just something missing inside her. Problem was, she didn't know what.

So once again, Renee was sitting in another bar; she hadn't bothered to read the name, looking for someone that needed a doctor. Having learned a long time ago to not take her eyes off her belongings, especially something as valuable as her medical kit, she had her travel bag on the table, her arms resting on it. Her gaze was observing the other people there; she hoped to meet someone that could refer her to a job. After an hour or so, a Human woman stopped at her table.

"You're new here."

"I am," said Renee.

"Mind if I sit?"

"No, go ahead."

"I'm Gia." She was average height, with long, black hair tied behind her back, and brown eyes. She looked to be in her thirties.

"Renee." The two women looked at each other. Renee was assessing her visitor, who was surely assessing her as well. "So what can I do for you?"

"It's more what I can do for you," said Gia.

Renee rolled her eyes. "Okay. What can you do for me?"

"Word on the street says you're a doctor looking for work."

Three years ago, Renee would have been surprised Gia was aware of that. She knew better now, understanding the value of information. If Gia really was there to connect her with where she would be going next, the smart play was to be honest, though cautious.

"Yes, I'm fully trained and licensed. My contract with the freighter, Forlorn Hope, expired, so I'm up for something else."

"Captain Cromwell is a good man. Why didn't you re-up?" said Gia, leaning forward.

Renee shrugged. "I just needed something different."

Gia eyed her suspiciously.

"Really," said Renee. "I left on good terms."

A few seconds passed.

"I can send you to a ship that needs a good doctor," said Gia.

"And how much will that cost me?" said Renee.

Gia chuckled. "Why would I ask for payment?"

"Why wouldn't you?"

Gia chuckled again. "Let's just say I'm doing a favor for someone."

"Who would owe you one in return."

"That's my concern, not yours. Do you want the referral?"

It was Renee's turn to chuckle. It didn't matter in what part of the galaxy she was or with whomever she was dealing, everyone was the same. At age thirty, was she too young to be so cynical?

"Yes, I would like the referral. I sincerely appreciate it," said Renee.

Gia smiled. "Have you ever heard of the Mary Rose?"