Main / 1105-003-Pioneer

Calendar

1105-002 -- 1105-003 -- 1105-004



Timing of events
6:00 - Morning Meeting
18:00 - Captains Dinner

04:30 Tepawabpeperfobaweafe's Stateroom

[Tepawabpeperfobaweafe / Te'pe'fe] The lights started slowly increasing from a darkness that allowed only the projection of the local stars and cosmos across the floor, walls, and ceiling of Tepawabpeperfobaweafe’s quarters. Only the contours and small trees interrupted the projection from the environmental unit resting at the back corner of his desk. Over the next fifteen minutes the illumination would increase through twilight, dawn, and sunrise into morning. It was accelerated, but not as much to create and issue. Tepawabpeperfobaweafe was particular to his routines.

As morning came fully into its own in his quarters, Tepawabpeperfobaweafe opened his eyes with several slow blinks. He had turned in his sleep and was facing the room proper. He preferred to wake facing the wall. But he smiled anyway. The humidity felt right. One-who-on-ship-exists-mechanical-things-to-correct-make, Tennyson, had corrected the environmental issue. Tepawabpeperfobaweafe happy was.

The Bwap rose and preceded to his morning routine. He would cleanse himself before moving to manicure the little trees his quarters. He wished captain would give him permission to turn one of the staterooms, preferably a neighboring one, into a mudbath he could properly clean out his pores and exfoliate his skin, but permission had not yet been given. Dressing in his Kaftan would proceed his moving out into the rest of the ship and the morning meeting as the air was much too dry to do otherwise. The meeting would be tedious, as it always was, but that was as it should be. Little was ever covered that concerned the astronomer, but it was the routine that had been established and if for no other reason, regime dictated his presence.

5:30 Athena's Stateroom

Eleni used her hip to push Athena over farther on the bed as she settled in on top of the blanket. She took a sip of coffee from her cup and waved another under Athena's nose.

(Eleni)"Time to wake up Captain" she said with a chuckle. Athena groaned, then sniffed appreciatively, then groaned again. "No Captain until after coffee."

(Eleni)"We need to talk about our new recruit, when you are sufficiently stimulated. She took a long drink from her cup, and waved the other cup under Athena's nose again.

Athena tossed an arm out across Eleni’s lap, still not bothering to open her eyes. "Please inform me that cup is for olfactory stimulation and Hernandez has finally found a way to inject it into my veins.” There was a long Schrödinger pause – was she asleep or awake? – before she added, “The other Hernández.”

After cracking her eyes open briefly to look, she groaned again, yawned, and slowly sat upright. "The lack of needle tells me no." She sighed, grabbed the cup, and took a sip. "I will need something stronger at more often if I am going to be forced to regularly entertain diplomats and a toddler who believes himself a ruler. Whomever you brought on board better not be either of those.”

(Eleni)"We are not certain about her being a diplomat. She seems like she could be. She is not a toddler, she might be older than you. I do not think she is a ruler. Though how can you tell with the Aslan? Who is really in charge the loud mouthed men? or the women who control the economy?

Eleni sips her coffee carefully holding the other cup just out of reach until Athena sits up.

(Eleni)"We do need to listen to what she has to say. She grew up on Asim, she went to University at the Scholar's Tower, she apparently teaches? taught? there too. She is on friendly terms with your toddler ruler. Who I might remind you had his world bombarded by the Aslan and this one Aslan is apparently friendly with the Princess as well. What is even stranger? Lord Wrax seems to like her. I wonder where she was when Drinax came knocking on Asim's door? We always have more questions than answers with the crew lately. This one? My credits are about 50 50 that she is either a short hopper like the Princess was or a long termer like Hörgenshon.

Eleni stands up holding the second cup of coffee just out of reach again. "I do think you should be dressed for your first meeting. First impressions might be important."

“It was not that long ago I was on The Intergalatic Scientist’s list of 40 Under 40 To Watch.” Athena frowned and looked down at her hand where she had held some coffee just seconds ago. There was another slow pause and sigh before she rubbed her face and made to sit on the edge of the bed.

She looked at Eleni not unkindly, the frown remaining. “I do not care who she is as long as she does not get in my way or interrupt my research. I have proven, most efficiently, and as recent as yesterday, that I can remain cordial when my nerves are tested. She will get a chance to prove herself like all others. And I have a hypothesis that Lord Wrax dislikes those with military background. Perhaps she can add to my data on that. What do you have her doing?”

Athena waved her hand, gesturing to the cup of coffee. “And as I said, no Captain until after coffee. I cannot dress the part until I have my coffee.”

(Eleni)"Here you go." She hands Athena a second cup of coffee, takes the empty cup away, waves it at her "One down, one to go. And I have her making you breakfast as we speak. See you there."

Eleni scoops up two data pads, tosses a third onto the bed and heads to the common area for breakfast.



Morning Meeting - 06:00 - Pioneer Common Area

Rao has been up for quite a while, preparing a repast that is not over the top, but quietly delicious. A variety to suit various tastes for breaking fast. Simple yogurt and fresh fruit with granola, double chocolate muffins, bite sized lemon ricotta pancakes, bacon that is perfectly crisp and chewy at the same time, and a hearty sausage egg casserole. Perfectly brewed coffee in plentiful supply, of course. All laid out and kept warm in the Common area, ready for crew as they come to it. She sits at a table as far out of the way as possible, sipping her coffee and reading quietly, prepared to replenish or help as needed. Available, but not demanding attention.

Mikhel arrives about 20 minutes before the scheduled meeting time. The aroma coming down the corridor had him drooling before he arrived. "Well. I'm going to need to bring a napkin with me to breakfast, if you are going to do this every morning. Rao, Fiya'." Mikhel looks down and bows his head. "That was probably terrible. Sorry."

Good "Morning Mikhel. It was not terrible. You are a man of Aokhaor to attempt Trokh on my behalf." [she chuckles quietly] "I do have napkins available as needed. I hope the options approach expectations, I was not sure what the crew is used to. At a minimum it smells better than the galley." [she crinkles her nose slightly] "You weren't joking about that. Please, break your fast."

As he entered the commons, two minutes before 06:00, Tepawabpeperfobaweafe noticed the new figure, the Aslsn, three times his height and more times his mass. He looked at the table and at where he normally chose to sit. It wasn’t correct. That would have to be fixed before he could sit down to eat, as was usual. Out of the drawer he pulled the necessary napkin, fork and knife. A cup for coffee required a saucer for it to sit in. Three plates were necessary. The plates were stacked with the saucer residing on top of them. The cup was turned open side down. The napkin and utensils carried in separate hands either side of the also carried plates. He set the plates down in as center a position as he could manage—or detect with his naked eye—at his place. Being right-handed he moved the saucer and cup to his left. Precisely opposite those on the right went the napkin, fork, and knife. And only then did he sit and look around the table at the food, and at the people seated and standing.

“Tepawabpeperfobaweafe Mikhel good morning greets. Mikhel friend who is?”

Rao quietly moves closer, to facilitate conversation, but without getting too close. She dips her head slightly, having watched this new crew member enter and arrange the space.

"I am Rao of Asim, Drinax, and for now Pioneer. I will be making food for those aboard, at least until we reach Asim, and am thankful be of service. I am pleased to meet you Tepawabpeperfobaweafe. I observe how you prefer your space for dining, and will make certain it is correct moving forward. Inform me please if different preparations or items are desired. May I be so bold to ask your role on the ship?"

Tepawabpeperfobaweafe tilted his head with the mispronunciation of name grateful that someone had the decency and respect to at least try. With a slight smile he started to reply, “Te . . .”

“Yes, a good question, Tep.” Athena walked in, looked at the spread of food, and gave a small, approving nod. She could live off coffee, as was her current plan, but good food would make the other researchers happy and therefore her happy as her focus could be on science and not running a ship. Third cup of coffee in hand, Athena sat down at her customary spot, and indicated Rao should join her. “Captain Solis,” remarked Athena as way of introduction. “Tell me who you are and why you’re on my ship first.”

Seeing as the captain had turned her attention to the newcomer, Tepawabpeperfobaweafe turned his attention to the food laid before them, keeping enough attention on the conversation to learn about this new interloper.

Rao turns to face the Captain, with a small but precise bow she sits. "Hello Captain Solis. It is so nice to meet you, I have heard many good things about you and your ship. I am Rao, of Clan Hrakoea. I have been teaching on Drinax for some time now, and am overdue for a trip home to Asim. The Baroness of Algra-Reev informed me that she had arranged passage for me on the Pioneer, but perhaps that was a misunderstanding? I hope I have not caused a problem. I am happy to help earn my keep by preparing the food on the journey if that is acceptable. Or in any other way you might take aid from my services." she nods toward the food "I took the liberty of preparing breakfast this morning, I hope that is not seen as an insult. I was told that you are currently without a chef, but I perhaps I should have waited to perform ekhtaowetyu."

“As I was told but accurate information is best from the source.” Athena took a sip of coffee, analyzing the Aslan as she would anything or anyone new, giving a two taps of her finger on the table. “It seems you made good use of what leftovers Hernández had and our replenished stocks. This is not our normal fare. But the crew will be happy so I will acknowledge my appreciate of it.” She set her cup down and glanced at her data pad. “Normally, my interaction with passengers are limited as I have other pressing matters, but you are relevant to the current situation. A good steward will win over most the crew; however, I’m more interested in data for your stay here. What can you tell me about the previous and current state of Asim?”

Rao narrows her eyes, almost imperceptibly. She’s not surprised, but she has confirmed that this captain is sharp. She will need to use extra care, but then she enjoys a challenge ”I am pleased to help in whatever ways I am able, Ma’am. I can only assume you know of the war and the Aslan control of the planet prior to it. Asim is still recovering from that conflict, as you can well imagine. Kingsport has made good progress, and it’s capabilities grow daily. The port itself is in excellent condition, and could potentially help with any … issues… you might have. Drinax and the King have made great strides in rebuilding the city.” A tiny smirk appears on her face, “With some interesting results. Naturally the farther out of the capital you travel the slower the efforts have been, but agricultural outputs have grown by leaps and bounds. We strive to keep up with the demand from Drinax, wanting nothing more than to repay the King for all he has done for our world.”

“The Aslan controlled Asim previously and yet you, an Aslan, praise the king for what he has done for Asim. Interesting,” remarked Athena, typing a small note on her data pad. She gave a slight dismissive wave. “I doubt the Port has much for my focus. I would imagine it is beyond that my skills may be better sought. How is the political scene? The Baroness granted passage, but she is not here. Whom will be greeting us when we arrive? And what are your plans?”

ignoring the Captain’s aside, as it was not a question directed at her ”I’m certain the Lady Telwax will be along to greet you. She is the Governor of Kingsport. I have a message for her from the Ambassador, introducing you, and will send it to her immediately upon our arrival."

"The political climate is mostly as one would expect from a loyal vassal. The people work hard to meet productivity expectations, and the government to support them in that capacity. A population of Aslan still remain of course, and occasional complications arise as will happen with any government system.”

“As to my plans, they are not firm currently. I enjoy teaching, but also like travel. As I mentioned, I am overdue to visit my family on Asim, but after that I will likely seek passage in some capacity for a while. It is my nature.” She ends with a small shrug as if to quietly say I am who I am “I would be pleased to be of service to you while our time on Asim overlaps, if you have need of such. It might give me some reprieve from being overwhelmed by the obligations of a large kin as well.”

“We will see how the following days proceed before decisions are made,” remarked Athena, neutrally. “A question of two parts before you should go mingle and meet the rest of the crew: what do you teach at the Scholar’s Tower and what can you tell me about Scholar Voha?”

Mikhel's polite interest in the conversation rose several points at the mention of Scholar Voha. Mikhel put down his gut wrenches and turned his full attention to Siya Rao.

"I am honored to teach computers at the Scholar's Tower. I enjoy the logic of them mixed with students who can be chaotic at times. I am also proficient at problem solving, which can often be of benefit with computers."

Rao pauses for a split second as her tone shifts. "Scholar Voha is brilliant, a good leader, and an excellent researcher in her own right. She is dedicated to the Prince, and has spent much effort and time in helping him regain himself. You have seen the amazing result of that." Her eyes dip down for a second, as if to indicate measuring her words (it is entirely intentional, though it does not appear that way) and then back up, meeting the Captain's. She is very aware of Mikhel's attention in this moment, though she does not look at him or indicate that she has noticed. "It takes strength to be a caregiver to one you love for so long, and to stay the course of their recovery."

Mikhel grins, but not in humour. nodding in agreement to Rao's words.

Athena takes a sip of coffee, making no indication of her opinion as she makes another note on her datapad. “Although I have more questions, I appreciate your answers so far and will not make this an interrogation.” She looks up and gives Rao a nod. “On The Pioneer, we put science above all. We are an eclectic bunch and not all of us are viewed favorably in different parts of the galaxy. You are not the first Aslan on board nor do I think you will be the last to see the inside of this ship. As long as you respect the mission, you are welcomed aboard. And if you find a way to get caffeine and trigonelline to behave like iohexol, that would appreciated - although I am told chemistry does not work in such a manner and it seems out of your purview. A shame.”

Athena gives a slight smile at her own joke and a wave of dismissal, adding, “If you have administrative questions, please speak to Jörn. I am available during my office hours if you have any other questions or topics you wish to speak on. Enjoy your time on The Pioneer.”

Mikhel takes that to mean Rao has become part of the crew, and now was under his medical care. He hadn't had the opportunity to care for many Aslan in his career. Mostly, he cared for Humans, and occasionally a Vargr. Most times, Aslan were in units of their own, and had dedicated trained and experienced medical staff. Mikhel would only treat an Aslan if Mikhel's unit was supporting another unit containing Aslan, or if Mikhel's unit re-enforced another unit under heavy fire, where Aslan may have been injured. Then, he'd stabilize the wounded individual and see to his evacuation to third-line medical staff. Experience with Rao would help him expand his experience, and considering where he was, that would only be to the good. Mikhel smiled.

Rao pauses for a moment, watching the Captain walk away as she contemplates the fact that she may well be out of her depth with the science on this ship. Time to learn new things, a task she almost always enjoys. And if science is the currency on board then she's best start getting the hang of it. She turns to nod at Mikhel before moving to the dishes of food on display to check for what might need replenishing.

Athena returns to her office and sits down at her desk with a small plate of fruit and pancakes. She wanted the crew to have time to meet the new passenger, given the odds of her being a long termer has increased slightly, and be able to speak without the Captain present. Not that any of them would hold back on teasing her about her coffee habits among other things. But it generally gave a better sense of ease with her absent until the greenhorns settled in. She takes a bite of the food, and is pleasantly surprised that it has flavor (the lack of steward lately has set a low bar).

There are a few tasks to complete with the downtime. Check on the data from a recent splice – nothing would come out of hibernation until they were more settled but it was worth seeing if this one was successful, send Eleni her notes from the morning, and, regretfully, finally spend a bit of time looking up the type of holovids produced by Yellen. That would be a later problem, but it was best to prepare for it now.

18:00 - Captain's Dinner - Common Area

The bwap enters the dining area, approaches his accustomed seat, looks at the table setting, raches for the plate, stops, looks again, starts to reach again, stops, and smiles. He sits down continuing to look over the setting, reaches up and moves a fork over just a centimeter before relaxing into his chair.

At 18:00 the traditional start of jump dinner hosted by the Captain starts.

(Eleni)"So Princess Rao," a laughing grin, then a dramatic pause, "Although with a bit of makeup and some lifts in her shoes she might actually do a poor attempt at impersonating you. I will leave it to the good doctor," she laughs as she timed that for Mikhel's entrance to the room, "to examine and see if you are a real girl... well, female? What is the proper nomenclature for a female Aslan?"

(Sherris)"You are incredibly rude Eleni. You really need to review your cultural guidence that I provided the crew before we left. The correct word is Siyajkhoara, IF and only if Rao has chosen that path for herself.

(Eleni)"Rude? I am just asking the correct associations we need to be aware of. You on the other hand just called her... landless? Isn't that a serious offence for our guest? And you do that right when your next question is going to be scheduling her for your interviews. I will give you 24 hours, no more. You can record all you need, Rao will get a sub-credit for being an unpaid research assistant for a term of six days. Any additional hours you require from here must be approved by myself or the captain prior to starting a new commitment."

Eleni turns to Rao"Also welcome to dinner! This is Veronica Sherris, she is our specialist in Sophont Culture. She will be responsible for learning as many details as she can about Asim from you. I have only allowed her to take 24 hours of your time during these next six days. Do not let her take them all at once."

Elini turns to go sit down, then turns back. "First thank you for taking on the Steward role during your stay on the Pioneer, I look forward to your take on feeding our random researchers. Second, did she get that word right? Are you Siyajkhoara?"

”Stop treating every passenger slightly different from the norm like a specimen,” said Athena with a sigh as she entered the dining room. “Whether or not they are is not yet relevant. Unless you wish to scare her away before she has given her consent – and finished acting as a Steward we so desperately need.” She sits at the head of the table and gives a nod towards Rao. “Given you prepare our food,” Athena gives her crew a look to remind them of that important point. “You have a right to dismiss their questions if you wish, but you are on a science ship and most have not met an Aslan before. A reminder for all to take into your calculations before you proceed.” There is a short pause. "Although yes, we do need information on Asim. Any questions or actions that are not relevant to Asim for any research must go through the appropriate channels."

"Rao. I looked through whatever I could find for Aslan language, and I begin to think there is too much missing in present Human references. If I were to put a label on it, which Dr. Sherris would not advise, I'd call the language very misogynistic, or at least androcentric. I say this, because of the glossaries or lexicons that I could find, none had any meaningful titles for females. Males had titles like 'First Son', or 'Second Son'. There are titles for leaders, judges, and warriors, but not much for merchants or technicians. You carry yourself with some amount of dignity and pride. I find it hard to call you just 'Rao'."

Rao faces the slight onslaught with a gentle smile. She was expecting no less, especially under the circumstances. She begins with Eleni. "Hello again. Siyajkhoara is correct terminology. But perhaps not a title. At least not one I would prefer. I am female, landless, and have no intentions of marrying. But I also like to think I'm more that the sum of those parts. Mikhel, I'm honored that you've made the effort to explore the language of my people. I agree that it contains a shortage of suitable titles for females. I have spent time as an educator, amongst other things. If an honorific is needed I prefer to adopt the human one of Scholar if that is acceptable." She turns to the Captain. "I appreciate your consideration for my comfort level and time. I am glad to help with anything relevant to Asim, beyond that I trust the appropriate channels will determine the correct course of action." She turns to Sherris. "Hello. I'm pleased to meet you Ms. Sherris. Or is it Doctor? Another title I should know? Please forgive my ignorance on this matter. I look forward to working with you, and appreciate your cultural sensitivity. That said, I can assure you that I have spent much time among humans and others, and am not easily offended. I endeavor to bear intent in mind, particularly across cultural lines." She nods toward Tepawabpeperfobaweafe slightly by way of gentle greeting. "Thank you all for the warm welcome aboard. I hope the food thus far has been to your liking."

"Based on the offerings this morning, I'd have no problem using the honorific 'Chef'. However, my brain still attempts to throw an error, if I put the honorific and your name together."

She grins a bit at Mikhel, "Thank you for the compliment on breakfast, I hope you continue to feel that way about the food I prepare. Sorry to cause errors, but I trust you will come up with a way to refer to me that works for you. As I stated earlier, I'm not easily offended, so I'm sure I will be comfortable with whatever you settle on."

She moves into the vicinity of the Bwap and notes that the placement of things has not been changed since she set them (she has an eye for detail, but misses the centimeter shift of the fork). "Greetings Tepawabpeperfobaweafe. I regret that we were unable to engage in discourse this morning, but of course the Captain's questions did need to be answered. I hope the food and arrangements this evening have been to your satisfaction? I will state that you are the first Bwap I have had the honor of serving, and I want to make sure that you are comfortable and that your needs are met adequately."

translation follows

The little bwap turns to look up at Rao with a broad smile and a twinkle in his eyes, “Yes, Captain often Tepawabpeperfobaweafe interrupt. Manners lacking. Question why ask? Answer wanted not. Wapawab grow not. Waweta.” Tepawabpeperfobaweafe shrugged before he continued, “Tepawabpeperfobaweafe prosper. Tenneyson prosper. Dromah prosper. Crockett prosper. Captain prosper. Ship prosper.”

Tepawabpeperfobaweafe smiles again turning to face Rao fully. “Tepawabpeperfobaweafe you thank want. Tepawabpeperfobaweafe name no one attempt. No one respect. Pronounce not, but come will.”

He turns and looks over the remains of the table almost gleefully. “Yes, thank you, tatwawa satisfactory. Many understand not bwap cuisine exotic enjoy. Bwap understanding. Tatwawa satisfactory . . . spices helpful would be. Table worry not. Error Tepawabpeperfobaweafe only notice.”

Tepawabpeperfobaweafe stands up in his chair and bows, “Tepawabpeperfobaweafe happy be first bawapakerwa-a-a-awapawab. Rao Tepawabpeperfobaweafe first Aslan. Yes, Tepawabpeperfobaweafe needs met will be. Tepawabpeperfobaweafe needs meet daily. Rao effort ease Tepawabpeperfobaweafe needs appreciated will be.”

translation

The little bwap turns to look up at Rao with a broad smile and a twinkle in his eyes, “Yes, the Captain interrupts me often. It is irritating. I often wonder why she asks questions she does not want answers to.” Tepawabpeperfobaweafe shrugged before he continued, “The greater good is not served by nonsense. If we each prosper, the captain prospers, and the ship prospers.”

Tepawabpeperfobaweafe smiles again turning to face Rao fully. “I wanted to say thank you. No one makes the attempt to use my name as it should be used. You did not pronounce it correctly, but that will come.”

He turns and looks over the remains of the table almost gleefully. “Yes, thank you, the food was quite satisfactory. Many do not understand that bwap enjoy cuisine from many places. Bwap are not picky. But more spices would be helpful. And do not worry, setting a table is a detail only bwap would notice done in error.”

Tepawabpeperfobaweafe stands up in his chair and bows, “I am happy to be your first. And you are the first Aslan Tepefe has met. And yes, my needs will be met. I met them daily. Any effort to ease my needs will be appreciated.”

As time passes upon the ship Rao spends her time preparing meals and of course cleaning. She pulls recipes from an extensive repertoire. The dishes are varied, coming from different cultures, and where possible races. She takes care to offer light and rich, vegetarian and meat heavy as much as the larder will allow. Her stash of spices is heavily relied upon, and each night at dinner she makes sure to wow the crew with a beautiful dessert.

But she is efficient in her use of time, and has plenty to spare to aid Sherris in her questions about Asim. They discuss the beauty of a sunrise in blue, the extreme tides of her homeworld, slow rebuilding of the capital city of Kingsport (previously Hardesport). So much damage was done in the war, and most resources have gone to agriculture and rebuilding the port. But of course the King has been most generous with helping the city as he can. She shares that Asim is a mostly peaceful world at the moment, the war being so recent relatively speaking. Naturally, being underdeveloped technologically speaking, they are struggling to increase production for export to Drinax. She muses that perhaps the Pioneer might be able to help with this issue. She is friendly and forthcoming with most of Sherris' questions, but does not volunteer a great deal without being asked, though her friendly manner sometimes masks this.

Rao seeks out time with everyone on the ship. She spends a good bit of free time chatting with Hernandez about his books and spices (she hopes to help him do some restocking on Asim while gaining some new ones from him for herself in the process). She works to get to know all of the scientists, and to learn what their specialties are and what they are currently researching. In very short time she has learned everyone's names and postitions on the ship, as well as many of their quirks. She listens to all of the gossip, and finds small ways to ingratiate herself without being obsequious. She makes sure the Captain's coffee is made from her special stash of beans every morning. That's it is piping hot, in her favorite mug, and is served EXACTLY as she likes it. All as effortlessly as possible.