The concept of having opinions on the validity and necessity of the mission is a bit beyond Zero-Three. He does, however, have thoughts on what Leti may need to prepare for to ensure the success of this mission, so he opens an internal file, and begins to compose a report that he will give to her at a later date.
Then, he erases the trajectory overlay of his previous mission, and brings up their current trajectory in a green line arcing past the viewport and beyond, a timer ticking down their estimated arrival. “There is a a small asteroid field here,” Zero-Three gestures, bringing up a circle highlighting an area just beyond the sun. “But that is easily navigated. Other than that, the next few days to our destination should be without concern.”
That Leti offers him the chance to ask about her is interesting. Zero-Three’s immediate question wants to be: why do you hide your arm.
Fortunately for them both, one of the earliest modules installed and tested in SPARROW was mimicked empathy and tact. It had taken a few years to perfect, but by the end, they had known it was rude to say things like 96% of your city was destroyed but at least 4% survived, or, your lower leg is crushed beyond repair, or, why are you crying. They didn’t quite understand why it was rude, but they followed their conversational parameters nonetheless.
Instead, he asks: “Were you involved in the crew selection process? If so, you’ve gathered something of an unconventional team.”
Leti watches with mild curiosity as the trajectory changes, the green line running across the viewport. Her eyes flick to the time, noting their estimated arrival for later. “Excellent, thank you Zero-Three. I’m certain we’ve the capabilities to bypass the asteroid field with little commotion.” She agrees, thankful that this part of their journey will go easily enough. The quietness affords her time to get to know everyone and to establish herself, her organization system, and a routine that suits the other inhabitants aboard.
She welcomes the brief pause between her presenting the opportunity to ask questions and the question that is asked. A soft, almost surprised, laugh leaves her lips. An unconventional team is an understatement, one that brings a certain mirth to her eyes. “Our team is certainly untraditional,” She agrees before shaking her head. “I was largely not involved with the selection process, however I’ve known our captain for some time and made his suitability for this mission publicly known. I’ve also known a few other members of our team, but not all. Nonetheless, I was brought up on their capabilities and specializations quickly enough, and were I more involved I likely would have made similar choices with that knowledge in mind.” She confesses, and not just for propriety’s sake. The team is skilled, if unconventional, and while the personalities aboard are not cohesive, the talents certainly complement well.
“May I ask, then, how you came to be selected for this mission, Zero-Three?” She asks, wondering if perhaps the ease of turn-taking in conversation would best suit them.
