A Step Forward.

Posted on Sat May 23rd, 2026 @ 4:59pm by Lieutenant Tuhjer Mil

282 words; about a 1 minute read

Mission: Episode 1: Shadows of Diplomacy
Location: Starbase 870
Timeline: Present

"You are ready for this, Tuhjer. I know you might still feel a flicker of doubt, but I’ve worked with you for three years now. I’ve watched you grow into a formidable diplomat, and I have no hesitation in saying you’re prepared to take on the responsibilities of a Chief Officer."

That was the thing about Commander Ryan Lewis, he never danced around a point. He spoke plainly, directly, and with conviction, no matter the subject. He had been Lieutenant Tuhjer Mil’s department head since the day the young Ensign arrived at the Diplomatic Department on Starbase 870, long before he was joined to the Mil symbiont. Ryan had been instrumental in helping Tuhjer navigate the unexpected joining; Tuhjer had never even considered applying to the Symbiosis Commission, yet destiny had paired him with a symbiont all the same.

"I really appreciate your faith in me, sir. Working with you has been both rewarding and genuinely enjoyable. When I first arrived as an Ensign, I wasn’t entirely sure I’d chosen the right path in diplomatic relations… but as we worked together, that uncertainty disappeared." Tuhjer said.

"Our line of work isn’t for everyone," Ryan replied. "Especially not at the level of detail we operate at. Most Starfleet departments only get a broad overview of diplomacy, we live in the fine print."

"A fair assessment, sir. I’ve been told the USS Scharnhorst will collect me once they’ve completed their current assignment. When that will be is still unclear. So, for now, you still have my assistance with our current workload." Tuhjer added, smiling, knowing Ryan would be quietly grateful to have him a little longer.

 

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