Jake and Jack

Posted on Thu Nov 9th, 2023 @ 11:03am by Executive Officer Jake Ford & Chief Of The Boat Terrence "Jack" Rumm

Mission: Fractures
Location: XO's Office
Timeline: Pre-Fractures (2397)
1233 words - 2.5 OF Standard Post Measure

It wasn't unusual for Jake to be tasked as the 'welcoming committee' for new arrivals. In fact, the last two or three newer crew had been directly contracted by Gregnol without Jake even knowing about them, such was their communication. Or lack of.

Either way, the rumblings about this new 'chief of the boat' were broadly positive. It seemed like he had made a good impression on those he'd encountered so far - though Jake never really spoke to the resident Romulans, so it was a generally stacked poll. In any case, he'd arranged a quick get-together so he could take his own measure of the man in question before things officially kicked off.

With the deliberate stride of a man accustomed to the ebb and flow of ship life amidst the vast cosmos, Jack stepped into the meeting area, pausing for a brief moment to take in his surroundings. The hum of the ship resonated with the pulsating rhythm of his own heart, a silent serenade to new beginnings.

Jack's discerning gaze settled upon a solitary figure, the only other soul present, standing with an aura of expectation. "Good day," he began, the corners of his mouth curling into a smile. "The vastness of space might make one feel small, but moments like these? Meeting new crew? Makes it all worthwhile. I wager you're Jake. Name's Jack, the new Chief of the Boat."

"Jake Ford. XO." Jake motioned for him to relax. The man's apparent flair for language notwithstanding, Jake was surprised that Gregnol had picked someone like this out for the role. Maybe he figured they needed a wiser old hand to help out. "We're not much for ceremony, Jack. Stand easy."

Jack chuckled softly, "Formality's not much my style either. But I do believe in first impressions. Out in the void, where everything can change in a split second, trust is what binds a crew. It's good to meet you, Jake."

He moved with ease, settling into a more relaxed stance. The years of experience evident in the lines of his face and the way he held himself. "I've heard bits and pieces about this ship and its crew. Some from Captain Gregnol and a few tales from the others I've encountered thus far. But hearing from the XO? That's a story I'm keen on." With a glint in his eye, he added, "So, Jake, what should I be ready for aboard this vessel? Any tales, tips, or tricks you'd care to share?"

"I mean, given what we've encountered during my time here, I don't think there's anything I can tell you that'll be good preparation. But I assume that since you've already spoken to the Captain you'll know about our work with the Fenris Rangers and are on board with that. Technically they're not a legal organisation, so we're walking a bit of a line with the authorities." He paused. "I'd say keep an eye out for the Romulans...Liha and Kali can be a little prickly. And Captain Jaal of the Thrai is...well, she's a handful."

Jack raised an eyebrow, the hint of a smirk forming at the corner of his mouth. "Fenris Rangers, eh? Always found myself on the side of those who tread the gray areas for a noble cause. As for lines with authorities, well, they're more like guidelines when you're out here in the black," he responded with a wink.

He nodded, taking note of Jake's advice. "Liha and Kali, the Romulans. Duly noted. Every crew has its unique characters. Keeps things lively." A thoughtful look passed over his face as he added, "And Captain Jaal of the Thrai... I've had my share of dealings with strong personalities in my time. I'll be sure to tread with care and respect."

Leaning in slightly, Jack's tone took on a conspiratorial edge, "But between you and me, Jake, it's those 'handful' types that often make the most difference out here. They've got the passion and the drive. Just gotta steer it in the right direction." He leaned back, giving Jake a hearty slap on the back, "But enough about all that. I'm here to serve and support this crew to the best of my ability. And it seems like you and I will be working quite closely. So here's to new adventures and keeping this ship flying smooth."

Jolted a little by the unexpected clap on the back, Jake half-stepped and mustered an affirmative. "Smooth would definitely be an improvement, so I'm sure we can work with that. If that's all you need, I suggest you check in with the usual suspects; Nollel can help you get set up logistically, Delaney is in charge of security. And do get yourself a medical with Evelyn."

Jack laughed heartily, recognizing the slight surprise in Jake's posture. "Apologies, Jake. Sometimes my enthusiasm gets the better of me." He ran a hand through his hair, shaking his head with amusement. "Been known to catch folks off-guard now and then."

He nodded at the names, mentally making a note. "Ah, Nollel. Met her already – quite the spirit she has. I'll definitely touch base with Delaney regarding security matters, and a medical with Evelyn seems prudent."

With a more contemplative look, Jack added, "You know, in my years of hopping between ships, I've come to realize it's not just about the vessel or the mission, but the crew. Every individual, with their quirks and skills, they're what make the journey worthwhile." He glanced around the room, as if taking in the spirit of the ship. "The Mary Rose is quite the vessel. I'm eager to see where our adventures lead."

Jack leaned a bit closer, eyes sparkling with genuine curiosity, "Before I head off, Jake, any personal insights or wisdom you'd like to pass on? Might not be much for ceremony, but I reckon your perspective carries weight around here."

Jake thought about that before landing on his last piece of advice. "Honestly? Just brace yourself. We've been through some weird stuff the last few years. The stories are best saved for another day, but things get pretty wild. So long as you're prepared for that, it'll be fine."

Listening intently, eyes crinkling in the corners as Jack offered a knowing nod. "Ah, 'weird stuff,' that's the sort of thing that makes life out here among the stars worth the air we breathe, isn't it?" He gave a short, amused snort. "I've danced with the strange and courted the peculiar in my time. I reckon it's about staying on your toes and riding the wave, however it comes at you."

He gave Jake a firm nod, his stance embodying the readiness he spoke of. "Preparedness, that's the key. I've always said that if you manage not to fall on your backside when the ship lurches, you're halfway to handling whatever the cosmos throws your way. And for the other half," he winked, "you rely on good folks like yourself to give you a heads up."

Jack straightened up, his tone warm but resolute. "So, brace for impact, keep my wits about me, and stay limber for the wild ride. Got it." He extended a hand in farewell. "Thanks for the chinwag, Jake. I'm sure we'll be crossing paths plenty. For now, I'll go see about that medical and make sure I'm as fit as the ship needs me to be."

 

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