Daydreaming on a new world...

[Dustin_Marks 0]

October 3rd, 2154: 1640 Hours

 

Ensign Jon Marks let the air rush from the planet sweep into his lungs as he set foot out of the shuttle. He smiled as he looked around the beautiful flora and fauna, taking in every bit of atmosphere he could. “This is nice,” Jon said aloud. “Wish I could vacation here.”

 

As the away team starting going about their various duties, Jon gazed out into the shrubbery, heeding the information from Commander Moore regarding the indigenous wildlife. Thoughts of his childhood when he and his Grandfather visited a preserve in Nevada sprang through his mind. Memories of feeding the animals and listening to his grandfather speak fondly of the Animal Kingdom soon gave away to the reality that the life-forms here would be better suited to eat, rather then watch. With a reserved sigh, Jon walked towards the edge of an unknown tree and propped up against it.

 

Several minutes passed as the Away Team gathered samples to test for edibility as well as scientific testing. A noise behind him caused Jon to momentarily make a grab for his phase pistol, but he soon realized it was just the doctor searching the shrubs. Calming down, he took a moment to digest the beauty of the doctor. Her red hair blowing in the breeze, her swiftness in gathering samples, and her delightful drawl all made Dr. McDaniel seem ideal. Jon quickly tried to dismiss these thoughts as he tried to focus on the mission at hand.

 

“Can I help gather some samples for you?” Jon asked.

 

With a nod of approval, Jon began picking some berries from a nearby tree. The berries ripe red and green textures made them appear quite appetizing, but he knew looks could be deceiving. A silly though went through his head while in the academy, a cadet brought a Venus Fly-Trap to a botany class and neglected to tell his lab partner what it was. A yell and three stitches later showcased that no matter how beautiful something is on the outside, they could be able to strike at any moment.

 

With that thought, he gazed back up at Dr. McDaniel and wondered if she possessed a similar quality. Maybe not so much as an attacker, but maybe her demeanor hid something else. She seemed a bit to herself at times and that made Jon wonder if maybe he should ask her out to dinner one night to see what she was really like. “Why not?” Jon thought aloud.

 

Gathering up the remainder of his berries, Jon began navigating back to Dr. McDaniel with his samples. Just as he turned the corner though, he saw the outline of his Commander making his way towards the Doctor as well. Nodding to Moore, Jon handed the berries to Dr. McDaniel…

 

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