Copper

Posted on Tue May 14th, 2013 @ 7:16am by Ensign David Brody

740 words; about a 4 minute read

Mission: Mission 82 - The Aggressor
Location: Starbase 400 Corridors
Timeline: Several hours after "Needing Attention"

ON:

Ensign David Brody stood outside airlock 23 awaiting the arrival of SB400's new Master-at-Arms. He had read the brief and understood that arriving Warrant Officer had once been a Borg drone. Brody had heard of former Borg drones entering Starfleet, but had never seen a rehabilitated monster before.

The airlock doors unsealed and the slight change in pressure made a hiss as the doors slowly opened. Out walked a man who stood slightly shorter than Brody and had a similar build. He had a number of implants which Brody understood were likely permanent. Brody decided to make the first attempt at contact and extended his hand for a shake. "I'm Ensign David Brody, Assistant Chief of Security and Tactical. Welcome to Starbase 400."

The partially mechanized man studied Brody's hand as if it were a piece of complex technology. He slowly extended his own hand and shook Brody's. He made certain not to use the full compliment of strength available to him. "My designation is Warrant Officer Talan. Reporting for duty, sir."

"Please, just 'Brody' will be fine," Brody replied. He was still getting used to the idea of having subordinates. "Come, let's go for a walk."

Talan slung his duffel bag over his shoulder as he accompanied Brody down the corridor. "I took the liberty of reviewing the station's security incident reports. My analysis indicates a proclivity for mild to moderate criminal activity."

Brody had read the same reports and did not draw the same conclusion. "Interesting. Would you care to elaborate?"

"Aye, Mr. Brody. In the last three weeks alone, there have bee ten reports of petty theft in the Promenade, thirteen reports of vandalism, and six reported incidents of physical altercations." Talan spoke indirectly to Brody as his attention was constantly focused on his surroundings. "As a matter of fact, I've noted three minor infractions in the time we left the airlock."

Brody wasn't sure whether to be offended or amused by Talan's appraisal of the station's security status. He looked behind them to see if he could tell what Talan had considered an infraction. "It seems you have some to learn in regards to the spirit of the law, Mr. Talan."

Talan looked back at Brody with a blank stare. His corneal implant had been rotating as it focused on Brody's face. "I have studied the benefits of both the spirit and letter of the law. While most might view my time in the Collective as a hindrance to my 'humanity', it has allowed me to instill and maintain order. A skill set I believe to be required for a Master-at-Arms." Talan turned his attention back to the activities taking place in the corridors. "I appreciate your direction, Mr. Brody, but I request I be allowed to serve justice as I have been trained to do."

Brody was a little less unsure this time about Talan's motives. He liked Talan's commitment, but did not much care for his tone. "Mr. Talan, you will enforce the law as instructed by either Commander Lokran or myself. That having been said, I can tell you are a talented man and will be an asset to this station." They continued their stroll down the corridor until they arrived at a turbolift. "I want you to prepare a report with your suggestions and recommendations to reduce the amount of crime on this station. Am I clear, Mr. Talan?"

"Yes, sir. You have made yourself clear. I meant no disrespect. I only wish to be of service." Talan's expression gave no indication as to how his exchange with Brody was making him feel if there were any feelings had at all.

Brody wanted to put Talan at ease, assuming there was any tension to speak of. "You'll be a fine Copper, Mr. Talan."

"Copper, sir?" Talan showed confusion, his first hint of an emotion.

"It's an old Earth term for a law enforcement officer.

"Aye, sir. I will strive to be the best...Copper...I can be. Thank you, Mr. Brody."

Brody stood in silence with an awkward smile on his face until the turbolift arrived. "You can take this to your quarters. I look forward to reading your reports. I'll see you before your next shift."

Talan nodded without expression. However, it was he who extended his hand this time. Brody took it and shook hands. Perhaps there was more to this man implants and order. Only time would tell.

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