I need to see your papers

Posted on Sun Sep 7, 2025 @ 6:09pm by Civilian David Scarlet & Lieutenant Annora Tessaro

972 words; about a 5 minute read

Mission: Time After Time
Location: Security Office
Timeline: MD 17- Afternoon

David Scarlet breathed a sigh as he visibly relaxed. Unlike dealing with medical, he felt at home when dealing with security and garrisoning. He walked into the main office and took a step toward the first desk he saw.

His mannerisms were crisp and efficient. He'd spent too long as security and a marine to not fall back into old habits even as a civilian. Scarlet stopped abruptly a couple of feet before the desk and made eye contact. "I'm David Scarlet, I arrived recently on the vessel designated Zero-Whiskey-Lima. I require basic civilian clearance for an extended stay. I was told to speak with Lieutenant Tessaro in Security."

Crewman Collier set down the PADD he was reading when he heard the gentle hiss of the doors opening. It wasn't any of the security personnel, or senior staff, possibly someone from a different department off duty but it was more likely a civilian. His speculation was confirmed as the man squared up with the desk before introducing himself.

"I see. Welcome to DS5. Let me see if the Lieutenant is available."

It wasn't long until the office door opened up, allowing Annora to enter the lobby of the main security offices. She held out a hand in greeting.
"Mr Scarlet? I'm Lieutenant Tessaro, if you'll follow me into my office I can take a look at your request."

Scarlet took the offered hand and gripped it firmly. "Just Scarlet is fine sir."

Annora took notice of the firm grip of the newcomer as he clasped her hand in his. The guards at the docking bay didn't report any issues, but that didn't mean she couldn't talk to the man and see just what he wanted.

"Scarlet it is."

He fell in step behind the CSO and followed her into the office. Scarlet glanced around and accepted the flashes of memory from his own time in security. His gaze fell on the chair on his side of the desk and he stiffly sat down with his fists resting on his lap.

"My previous service record should be on file, as well as my requested leave from Starfleet." Scarlet said quickly, hoping to cut off the obvious questions.

It didn't take long to establish the visitor's identity and skim through his service record.
"You can relax. There are no flags indicated from Customs when you scanned through, and everything looks in order. I have to admit, I've thought about leaving Starfleet for the civilian life myself, but at present the lure of the uniform wins out. What can I do for you today?"

Scarlet found himself remembering how the officer pips had made him itch. Too much red tape that sometimes made doing what had to be done... complicated. "I wasn't a fan of the paperwork."

"I've been told the ship I came in will be repaired and flyable soon. I'm taking possession of it, but I will be needing civilian quarters on the station as well." Scarlet explained. "I just want to make sure I've crossed the t's and dotted the i's in regards to getting proper clearance to stay."

"Ah, well can't argue with you there." came the response. "Things were certainly easier when I was a grunt or even junior enlisted. None of my leadership courses I attended went into any detail about all the red tape that came with higher rank. But, someone has to do it."

While the station was filling out as things returned to normal, there were still plenty of open quarters.
"I can get you berthing on Deck 174, with close access to the gym and holodecks. If you need any further supplies, check in with the Quartermaster's office on Deck 13. Are you planning on sticking around once repairs are complete or are you just passing through?"

"I'm planning on staying." Scarlet replied firmly. "I need a home port at least. Access to the gym and such will be nice. Thank you."

"Have you been on this station long?" Scarlet asked as he watched her get things settled through her console. "I've been to a few stations, but I've only ever served on a ship."

With a career as complex as hers, Annora had narrowed down her answer to suit a normal casual conversation.
"I see, always nice to see new faces on the station. Civilian or Starfleet. As for me, I've been on DS5 for about 4 years. I was the deputy security chief, moving into the lead role when Commander Ryan took over the XO position. Spent some time planet-side, never really got the traditional shipboard job."

Scarlet nodded. "I'd imagine it's a completely different beast. I'll focus on not giving you a reason to call me back here. Least I can do." Even with his own limited security training, he knew he'd be a detriment to a well oiled department on the station. Best to keep to himself and keep out of their way.


"Appreciate it. Each posting has been widely different than the others. You’ll find we give civilians a lot of leeway, as long as they don't step out of line. If you have questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to any security member. Should you feel that doesn't work, I have an open door policy."

She slid a padd across the desk.
"This is your lodging information and basic computer access. Anything else you need from me?"

"Thank you." Scarlet replied as he took the padd and gave her a quick nod. "I should be fine, and if something comes up I'll reach out."

Standing back up, he seemed a little more relaxed, but still firm in his demeanor. "Thank you."

Annora stood as well as the conversation wrapped up.
"You're more than welcome. Enjoy your stay."

Off:

LT Annora Tessaro
Chief Security Officer
DS5

David Scarlet
Civilian
DS5

 

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