"Skepticism and Nineveh"

[LtGeorgeMcLean 0]

McLean’s Logs

Lieutenant George McLean

Chief Engineer

USS Reaent- NCC 3345-G

 

0402.23

“Skepticism and Nineveh”

 

 

 

George was skeptical. As he carried out the Captain’s orders he could not help but to question those orders. Not that this was anything new to him. George had frequently questioned the decisions of Captain Michaels throughout the current “mission,” if you could call it that. Michaels was lucky, far too lucky than George was comfortable with. His orders were often erratic and the heroic impulses beat strongly within his breast. Individuals like Captain Michaels scared George the most, especially when they have authority over him. He was almost sure, but not completely, that he’d rather serve under a passive coward than an erratic hero. George had a feeling it would be Michaels that would eventually cost his life.

 

As he made the final preparations to the shuttle, George wondered if once again he’d have to stare death in the face. It had become almost a daily occurrence since the Reaent was brought ten years away from home. He recalled those moments still vivid in his mind and dwelled upon them. Death was too familiar. Each day seemed to be dominated by decisions that were preparation for dying versus living. Oh for a quiet normal day! Oh for shore leave! When was the last time he relaxed?

 

Despite the mental anguish, his soul remained somewhat tranquil. George knew that Michaels might be sending four of his finest officers off to die, but those officers were the best chance for the preservation of the Reaent crew. They had to find out whether they could use this probe to take them home. Even if they died trying, at least they would know that the only option was to trek home.

 

George walked out of the shuttle in Shuttle Bay Two with Engineering kit in hand. He gave his appreciation to Lieutenant (Jg) Keraz and Ensign Graham along with the assistance of Lieutenant Kroells and Ensign Lacroix. They were ready to move out. George tapped his combadge, “McLean to Ridire,” he spoke confidently, “we’re ready to enter the belly of the whale.” McLean hoped that the ironic Biblical allusion would hold true to their situation, the salvation of the shuttle and the salvation of all of Nineveh.