Star Trek Intrepid/Tarsis/Logs/Stardate 48199
Kendra Tarsis, personal log. Stardate 48199.2
My first week on the Intrepid is proceeding well, the crew appears capable and motivated, and though there are a number of smaller faults associated with any prototype, I am optimistic for the Intrepid, she's a fine ship.
Captain Quintana is an unusual commanding officer, but not overly so. He maintains a close, friendly relationship with his crew and engages his subordinates in a familiar and cheerful manner. Unlike many other officers who have professed similar attitudes, I feel that he is genuine and earnest in his approach. I only hope that this closeness does not impair his judgment when the situation calls for tough choices. I have yet to observe the man in a true crisis, but until then I remain optimistic, despite his remarks about my age, it is clear that he means well and it is impossible to not like him.
I do have reservations about the tactical officer, commander Ort. His starfleet record is unbelievably sparse, other than the fact that he has been quickly transferred off every ship he has served on. According to Starfleet, he's a tactical genius, but I have a hard time placing my trust in a man of whom I know so little. He does give off an earnest vibe, and for whatever reason, Starfleet has made his placement and integration a priority, so I find myself inclined to give him the benefit of the doubt. Additionally, he is immune to my extra senses...a quality I quite like in a person.
I plan to get better acquainted with the other department heads, lieutenant commander Forrester has been rather terse and reserved so far, perhaps time and familiarity will help, but I feel he is uncomfortable around me, at present I prefer to not press the issue.
I am rather concerned about our chief engineer, Thopok. I try not to judge people on their race, but in his case, anger and frustration simply seem to radiate from him. It is clear the man is qualified, and apparently able to hold his temper in check when it counts, but it does make me uneasy. He did warn me about the night-shift manager, Lieutenant Zeri. Apparently, he thinks she is an underqualified middle manager who shouldn't be in charge of a warp engine. I have yet to meet the woman, but I can't help but imagine that if Thopok dislikes her so, she is bound to be someone worth having around.
As for the rest of the senior staff, the only noteworthy interaction I have had has been with ensign T'Kel. We took lunch together today and we had a very interesting discussion about the effect of warp travel on emerging societies. A vulcan mind is a refreshing pause from the chaos most people emit...through no fault of their own, of course.
Overall, my impression of the crew has exceeded expectations. I hope that over time, I will be able to call these people friends.
