Regulating the Upstart

The Leviathan had just completed her first "real" mission. Her target had been a souped up Teorian battle ship. Toran had never seen a Teorian ship with that kind of power. Unfortunately for Toran, his shift had ended, which would have been good if he didn't have to go speak with the Captain. The disregard of protocol on this ship is starting to piss me off! he thought.

Commander Devore had just recently gone into his ready room. Toran touched the pad to the right of the door. Inside, a chime rang, and Toran heard Commander Devore's voice, "Come."

Toran entered, "Captain, you asked to see me after my shift ended?"

"Yes Ensign," Devore replied, "like I asked before, aren't you a bit old to be an Ensign ?"

Damn, I don't look that old, I only look about 45 by human standards, he thought. "Actually sir, I was out cruising the galaxy while your great-grandparents were still in diapers," Toran said with a smile.

Devore gave him a confused look. "Captain, I assume that you haven't read my profile yet. I'm an El Aurian. I served in Starfleet before as a Noncommissioned Officer. I made it to Chief Warrant Officer before I retired. I decided to come back when Admiral Sutek told me about the mission of the Leviathan. Instead of reinstating me as a CWO though, he granted me a commission." He has to know I didn't go to the Academy, only officers with field commissions wear provisional insignia, he thought.

"Interesting," Devore replied simply.

"Permission to speak freely sir?" Toran asked.

"Granted," Devore replied.

"Is there a reason that you totally disregard protocol on this ship?"

"What do you mean?"

"Well sir, you are the Captain, regardless of grade, and you should be addressed as Captain. Also, I have an issue with you calling me 'old man'."

Devore looked somewhat amused at this Ensign trying to dress him down respectfully. "Is there anything else Ensign?" Devore asked.

"Yes sir, I would appreciate it if you would address me as Ensign or Mr. Toran."

"And if I don't," Devore asked.

"Then I'll beat your pompass ass, SIR!" Toran replied. That's gonna get me in the brig, but maybe he won't mess with Sutek.