Duty and Discipline

Posted on Sun Dec 15th, 2024 @ 7:05am by Lieutenant Rune Thul

894 words; about a 4 minute read

Mission: Masters of the Stars [2]
Location: Deck 41-50 - Upper Sphere Storage and Deck 51-60 - Care Decks
Timeline: MD -5 (Prior to Masters of the Stars but After DownTime)

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Lieutenant Rune Thul strode into the Central Armoury, the hub for weapons and ammunition storage aboard the station, his steps echoing faintly against the metallic floor. The automated lights flickered on, illuminating rows of carefully secured racks housing phasers, rifles, and other tactical equipment. The protective vests and full body armour encased in windowed lockers were quite a range of sizes. Rune methodically inspected each rack, ensuring the weapons were properly calibrated and stored in compliance with Starfleet protocols. Using a tricorder, he scanned the phasers to verify that their power cells were fully charged, noting with satisfaction the meticulous organization of the inventory. Each phaser and rifle was in pristine condition, and the ammunition along with the protective gear lockers were locked with redundant security measures—a standard he expected from the Security department.

He did notice not all the furniture or surfaces were spotless, as he could see some dust in places. Perhaps this station hadn't seen much in the way of hostile intruders or behaviour from the refugees as yet, so the Armoury hadn't been used in a few weeks. Even if that was true, dust should have been picked up by the environmental system, Rune logged that on his padd; contact operations about possible issues with Armoury environmental controls. It was something new as most of the Armouries he had used in his time didn't have light-motion sensors, he found it refreshing.

Next, Rune headed to the Tactical Holosuites for the scheduled hand phaser, and the one rifle, recertification examinations. The examinations tested personnel on both their technical proficiency and their ability to remain calm under pressure. Of the five officers undergoing testing, three passed, including the rifle examinee with ease, demonstrating precise aim and steady composure under simulated combat scenarios. However, two officers stumbled, their performance hindered by the stress of exam conditions. Rune noted their errors with a patient yet firm demeanor, offering them feedback and rescheduling their exams. "Mistakes are a part of learning," he reminded them, his tone calm but resolute. "Use this as an opportunity to refine your skills. The next time you face this simulation, you’ll be prepared."

"Yes sir," both of the examinees replied with clear disappointment in their tones, Rune picked up on their immediate surface thoughts that he was not the target of that dissatisfaction but at themselves for falling due to the exam pressures.

"You have the next hour to practice now if you like, as I booked the holosuite for 2 hours." Rune supplied as he smiled. "Don't over do it, see you around." The two officers thanked their new chief, and they were talking as Rune left the holosuite.

With the examinations complete, Rune proceeded to the station’s six docks, each funnily enough shaped like a Constitution-class saucer section but scaled up to accommodate the station's operations. At each dock, he visited the Security Suites, holding meetings with the respective Security Supervisors. These discussions focused on the state of their personnel, the readiness of equipment, and any logistical or operational issues they were facing. Dock Bravo’s supervisor flagged a shortage of stun grenades, prompting Rune to prioritize a requisition request, while Dock Foxtrot's supervisor highlighted scheduling concerns with overlapping shifts. Rune took careful notes, promising swift action to address the issues. His pragmatic approach and understanding of his supervisors’ challenges earned him respect among them, who appreciated his focus on both efficiency and personnel well-being.

After completing his inspections, Rune made his way back to the Tactical Holosuites for a personal training session. He dressed in his training thigh-length blue onesie, it hugged his body like a second skin. Activating the Velocity program, he selected a fast-paced moving target mode designed to sharpen reflexes and precision. A holographic opponent then materialized, its form sleek and agile, it mimicked the fitness thigh-length onesie he wore but red coloured, mirroring Rune's movements while performing its own as they engaged in a tactical duel. Armed with phasers, the two shot at a floating disc that changed colours when hit in turns. The hologram tested his focus, forcing him to rely on instinct and years of training. By the end of the session, Rune’s breathing was steady but deep, a thin sheen of sweat on his brow. He deactivated the program, a satisfied smirk crossing his face. Despite his busy schedule, maintaining his own readiness remained a priority—a reflection of his commitment to leading by example.

The day’s inspections, examinations, and meetings left Rune with a sense of accomplishment, and he was tired. After a brief sonic shower in the nearby Marine Barracks, which they graciously allowed him to use, he put his uniform back on and chatted with the Marines for an hour or so. After promising to return soon, Rune reviewed his notes in his office, he felt a familiar weight of responsibility—a reminder that in his role, ensuring the safety and preparedness of the station’s crew wasn’t just a duty; it was a calling. He got to work on those actionable items he had to have set in motion before the end of his shift, once instructions were given out via the Security Message System or as he heard from his staff, the SMS, he quickly tidied up his office before making his way to the Thul family quarters.

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