Chief Engineer - Part 2

"I've had it for years, trust me, I know the ins and outs. All the dirty tricks both ways haha. And the story of how I got it is...well messy to say the least. But that's for another time. So far we have myself and four others as permanent crew. The First Officer we are still looking for and we do have a series of rotating hired hands scheduled so there is a labor force. As for alot of the mechanical work, Mei-Lin has been utilizing some of these maintenance repair bots we picked up here to help out. Makes some of the less complex jobs that are dangerous, easier to knock out. But she'll work for you. Otherwise I have a shuttle bay manager who's a young kid that's a hot shot pilot, a medic, and a gal who knows the routes and stars in the quadrant like no one else I know."

Mei-Lin spoke up "There's definitely some work to be done, but I think I can be more than helpful. I do have academy training so if nothing else I'm more than aware of Federation systems at their basic level." She looked over at Zedd as if to queue him about letting the other man know about some of the dangers of the job.

"So as you know, we're a private ship, so that means we could take on just about anything that pays, if you catch my drift. We're not affiliated with the Federation or any organization that is more straight laced, so you could find yourself on the other side of the fence at times. Are you okay with that?" Zedd asked. "I'll make sure it's worth everyone's while.

A young Ferengi walked over and sat a cup of coffee down in from of the newcomer before slinking away as Mei-Lin handed him a slip of latinum.

Morgan nodded at the Ferengi and continued the conversation. “I come from the Academy, too. I was an academic for a long time, as you may or may not know. I’m here to put my knowledge and skill to practical use. I’ll be frank, I’m an engineer, not a privateer. I’m not in it for the money, despite the fact that we’ll need it for wherever we go. I’m in it for the excitement, the action, and everything that goes with it.” Avery paused for a beat. “I’ll help you, Captain. I promise to keep your ship and your people safe. But I won’t kill, Zedd. That’s where I draw the line. Only to defend myself or the lives of….our people. I can fix just about anything and work with just about anybody. You won’t be disappointed.”

The Captain regarded the other man's words for a moment. "That's fine, I dont need you stacking bodies. So long as you are willing to help with any ships we come across in our travels, we'll make sure to keep you out of any sort of aggressive engagements we may conduct if we participate in any sort of boardings. My Medic seems to share your sentiment so you'll be in good company. Now as far as your share for pay, did you have any thoughts in mind as to what you are looking for?" As always, the Captain new what his max pay would be for the man, but wanted to hear his thoughts first..

“I appreciate your consideration, Captain. I prefer building bridges, not tearing them down, as the saying goes. As far as compensation, I’m sure we can come to an agreement. Something commensurate with my new position aboard ship and my tech expertise. I dropped my belongings at an establishment about 2 blocks from here. The proprietor told me he would keep them safe. I can fetch them and then….shall we go?”

"Well" Zedd said, mulling everything over "Based on your considered focus and level of participation, I can give you a share of 4.8% of our payouts. I'll make sure ship expenses are covered on my end and give you a line of funds for ship parts and repairs. If that's agreeable to you, then I think we can make our way up to the ship. This coffee is dreadful to say the least. And the smell from the swamps down here are getting worse as the day goes on."

“Agreed,” Morgan could barely stifle a laugh when he replied. “You’re right about the coffee. And the smell. Remind to program a special blend I came up with into the replicators. I’m sure you’ll like it.”

Mei-Lin sat there in silence, a little internally upset at such a high opening offer for pay to Avery compared to the low ball offer she had gotten, but she didn't say anything and kept in mind the vast amount of experience he had compared to her. She decided to speak "What do you say, Chief?"

“It’s just Avery, my dear. Captain….Zedd, do you mind going on ahead of us back to Dutchman? Come on, Mei-Lin. Walk with me to get my stuff. We can talk.” Morgan turned back to Sykes. “We’ll meet you shortly, if that’s alright.”

"I'm not her keeper, if she's fine with it, she can go as she likes. As for the coffee, I'd be interested in trying it. I do enjoy a mean raktajino, although I've found some Jamaican blends to be quite favorable as well." Zedd stood up and looked over at Mei-Lin to ensure she was good.

"I'll make sure he finds his way up Zedd" she replied. Standing up as well, she left her coffee on the table and motioned towards the nearest exit out of the tables. "Shall we then?"

“Let’s go…” Avery said. He led the way for a minute but let Mei-Lin catch up until she was by his side. The streets were getting crowded as the day’s business moved on.

“So tell me more about Sykes. He seems like a reasonable and capable leader. I couldn’t help but notice the connection between the two of you. How long have you known each other?”

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