So I hear You Have Need Of An Armoury Chief?

Posted on Thu May 25th, 2023 @ 3:09pm by Chief Armoury Mitchell Sirotek & Captain Rueben Gregnol

Mission: Mission 16: Hysperia
Location: Hysperia
1972 words - 3.9 OF Standard Post Measure

Meeting for an interview in a bar was always a unique and unconventional experience in Gregnol’s experience and why he chose it for meetings around people joining his crew. While it might not be the most traditional setting, there are some benefits to conducting an interview in a more relaxed and informal atmosphere as it put both the interviewer and interviewee at ease with a beer or two shared.

A more relaxed environment also helped to alleviate nerves and create a more casual conversation, which can lead to a more natural and honest exchange which was where he wanted to start with all his senior crew. Additionally, being in a more laid-back atmosphere helped to break down any barriers or formalities that may exist in a typical interview scenario, especially for former Starfleet which seemed to come head his way often.

From the outside, the pub looked snug, welcoming and delightful. Clay and stone beams made up most of the building's outer structure which was uniquely Hysperian in his opinion. But it had not failed him so far as it was easily findable outside of the port. It was hard to see through the high windows, but the laughter from within could be felt outside which had drawn him there in the first place many months ago.

Mitch paused to take in the ambience of the pub. While it was an unusual place to hold an initial meeting, he had encountered many stranger scenarios throughout his career. Despite his experience, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of uncertainty as he stopped outside the door. He contemplated whether this was truly his last chance to back out before pushing the thought aside and opening the door.

Once inside, he quickly surveyed the room, noting the exits, an armed guard, and a few unsavory individuals. Despite the potential danger, Mitch's smile never faltered as he approached the table. "Captain Gregnol?" he asked, standing a little taller and projecting confidence.

Gregnol had noticed the man checking out the place as soon as he came in. It was something he did himself but in a much more subtle way but he could not blame him Hysperia was very known to him after the last couple of months so he was not as all phased by the swords and dagger on everyone and their mums. “Gregnol is just fine,” Reuben assured quickly, indicating the chair opposite him.

As Mitch settled into the vacant chair, he turned to Gregnol and inquired, "I heard you have a security position available. I assume my presence here indicates that I am being considered for the role." He motioned for a server to come over and placed an order for a drink. "I must confess that this planet is an unusual choice for a meeting, but it's not the most peculiar location I've ever visited."

"It is safe." Reuben countered. "You assume correctly. We have not had someone in the position for a while now. My brother-in-law has been in place temporarily but... I do not want a family member in the department head position." He explained why Leiddem was not officially in the role. It was a personal rule that he had for many reasons but it had served him well so far. "We are here for a huge dry dock. Well, I guess I need to know more about these peculiar locations." Saying peculiar sounded so strange in his accent but he used the word back to show he was interested and wanted to know more. "You are former Starfleet correct?

Mitch nodded. "Yes, I am. I departed Starfleet due to behavior problems that included insubordination, disregard for regulations, and a tendency to go rogue. I also got attacked in a fight with a Nausicaan, which caused the scar on the right side of my face and the loss of my right eye," he explained candidly. He knew it was better to be upfront about his past and any potential obstacles that may come up in the future.

"Life in the private sector was a far cry from the structure and stability of Starfleet. Jumping from contract to contract is starting to take its toll, both on my finances and my mental well-being. That's why this opportunity with your crew was so appealing. It offered the chance to be part of a team again and work towards a common goal, something I have missed since leaving Starfleet," Mitch added. He knew it wouldn't be easy and there would be challenges to overcome, but he was ready for the challenge. If he could prove himself and earn the trust of his new crewmates, he might finally have the stability he craved.

Mitch leaned back in his chair, taking a deep breath. "I know that I have made mistakes in the past, but I have learned from them. I understand the importance of following regulations and respecting authority, especially in a security position where people's safety is at stake. I also have experience working in high-pressure situations and making quick decisions, which I believe will be an asset to your crew."

"So, what have you been doing since you left Starfleet?" Reuben liked the honesty he was getting so far, it made a subtle difference to his posture which whilst not noticeable to many people but to some it might have been a sigh of relief. The man seemed to be owing his flaws which was a welcome from the previous chief of security he had dealt with within and outside of Starfleet.

"Honestly, whatever pays the bills," Mitch was blunt, "renting myself out at a civilian security contractor. However, these types of jobs are not always," he paused, "stable for the long term."

"What do you think makes a good chief of security on a civilian vessel?" Gregnol had no issue with blunt but he hoped the man saw them as a long-term venture at least as Gregnol had some crew going back to when he started the venture in 2393.

"As a former Security Officer, I believe a good chief of security on a civilian vessel should possess strong leadership skills, be adaptable to the unique challenges of civilian life, and have a thorough understanding of the vessel's security protocols and potential threats. They should also be able to work closely with the ship's crew and passengers to maintain a safe and secure environment," Mitch answered the question.

"What are your thoughts on a vessel that is 150 years old." it was hard to put into an advert that a ship was as old as he was. It was not something that most people wanted to be an apart of.

"In my experience, the age of a vessel does not necessarily determine its capabilities. A 150-year-old vessel may require more maintenance and repairs than a newer ship, but it can still be a reliable and effective mode of transportation," Mitch smiled, "you just have to keep the maintenance up to date so parts don't fly off at warp and I will keep us secure."

"We have had a dry dock due to those types of issues." Now the next question would be the one that decided whether he wanted to take the chance on the man or not. "What do you think of the Fenris Rangers?"

Mitch thought for a minute, "The Fenris Rangers are a group of independent law enforcement agents who operate on the fringes of the law. While their methods may be unorthodox, they are known to be effective in combating criminal activity in areas where Starfleet and other official organizations cannot always operate."

"To be frank, I haven't really had much experience with the Fenris Rangers, so I haven't formed a strong opinion either way."

"But you would not have an issue in working alongside them?" Gregnol wondered taking his turn to be blunt now. He needed to know that the man would not be an issue with Kaylin and her crew. It was hard enough sometimes reminding himself that Starfleet was no longer as strong or as white as it used to be, the universe needed more Fenris Rangers. "Or even becoming one yourself?"

"I will work with the Rangers," he responded, "hell, I'll assist or help in any way. However, before I commit myself completely, I would need more information about just what that would involve."

“Supporting them in operations? Hiding them if needs must.” The man sighed and rubbed his hand over his stubble. “Over the last year, I have moved from the moral high ground that Starfleet has taken or thinks they have taken. There is too much unrest and I cannot just sit around watching the universe descend into chaos.” Reuben saw himself as part of an independent group of peacekeepers who were trying to maintain a semblance of law and order on both sides of the former Neutral Zone. It was hard and exhausting but he wanted to at least try.

Mitch chuckled, "If you're looking to discuss Starfleet and claiming the moral high ground, you've got the wrong Sirotek. My brother Mike and I haven't spoken a word in quite a while. It seems that my departure from Starfleet brought disgrace or some such thing upon the entire family." Dismissing the matter with a shrug, Mitch continued, "The latest news I heard was that he's striving for a command. Quite the foolish endeavor, if you ask me." He paused for a moment, suddenly aware of the potential offence his words could cause to his new employer. "No offence intended, of course."

"I do not believe Starfleet have any high ground. They just think they have. I have been out for ten years or so now but I am a good Captain who wants to know that my crews are completely aligned with my views." He said softly. It was not something to argue over in his opinion, everyone had family issues. It was very unlikely he was ever going to meet the brother so saying his opinion was no good for anyone.

Mitch responded in a straightforward manner, acknowledging, "I can understand and respect that."

"But you are willing to help?" Gregnol asked confirming his Fenris Ranger point. It was going to be a hard pass if the man said no and he had not seemed like he would as he looked like he wanted to prove his brother wrong and more.

"I'm willing to offer my assistance or help the Rangers," Mitch replied, his tone resolute. "Nevertheless, I firmly adhere to the age-old saying: fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me." Locking eyes with the man, he continued, "My stance: anyone who seeks my help will receive it, regardless of their moral high ground. However, if you betray my trust, don't expect a second chance."

“Good. So the job is yours if you want it.” Gregnol decided to take the chance. The man's vibe suited him after Robinson’s chaos he needed someone a lot more chilled and less intense so this seemed to be working the way that he wanted it to which was a welcome change.

"Seems like we've got a solid plan," Mitch declared, leaning back in his chair. "So, when do we kick things off?" He contemplated how his entire life could fit into a single bag, making the transition to the ship relatively easy.

“Straight away.” There was no time like the present to start in the Captain's opinion when they had not much more left to do in the dry dock. “Do you have any final questions?” Gregnol said wondering what the man would have to ask if he did all.

"Very well, Captain," Mitch responded. "I'll join you on the ship soon, but first, I need to attend to a few matters before I can report."