Arrival at Empok Nor
Posted on Sun Nov 2nd, 2025 @ 2:43pm by Lieutenant Junior Grade Jack Hunter
Edited on on Mon Nov 3rd, 2025 @ 5:12pm
677 words; about a 3 minute read
Mission:
Episode 17 - Going Home
Location: Empok Nor Various
Timeline: MD002 0800 hrs
Jack Hunter stepped off the passenger transport shuttle and into the bustling chaos of Empok Nor, carrying his duffel bag behind him like a ball and chain. Now, there was the sight of the security checkpoint, a snaking line of frustrated travelers that seemed to stretch into the next quadrant.
He groaned, rubbing the bridge of his nose.
“Of course. Why make things easy when the universe can make them unbearable?”
The line moved forward in agonizing increments, and the occasional beep of scanners and gruff commands from security officers. Jack shifted his weight from one foot to the other, muttering under his breath as a Ferengi traveler at the front of the line argued with the guard.
After five minutes, his patience hit its limit. Spotting a young ensign wearing Starfleet gold standing near the checkpoint, Jack stepped out of line and made a jog for him.
“Hey, officer,” Jack called out, a grin plastered on his face. “Do you think you could do me a favor? I’ve had a long trip, I’m running on fumes, and this line is moving slower than a Tellarite diplomat in a debate. Any chance you could bump me to the front?”
The ensign raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed. “I’m afraid I can’t do that, Lieutenant. Everyone has to wait their turn.”
“Come on,” Jack pressed, leaning in slightly. “It’s not like I’m asking for a personal escort. Just skip a few steps so I can get on with my day. You’d be saving lives. Well, at least mine.”
The ensign crossed his arms, his expression unchanged. “Back in line, Lieutenant.”
Jack sighed dramatically, throwing up his hands. “Fine, fine. But just so you know, this is why nobody invites security to parties. Too much rule-following, not enough fun.”
The ensign didn’t bite, and Jack trudged back to his spot in line, grumbling.
Ten minutes passed, the line crept forward, and Jack’s attention wandered. He spotted a young girl clinging to her mother’s hand a few spots ahead. The girl looked exhausted, her wide eyes darting nervously around the bustling crowd. Jack softened a pinch. He crouched slightly and caught her eye.
“Hey, kid,” he said, pitching his voice just loud enough for her to hear. “You doing okay in this madhouse?”
The girl blinked at him, clutching her mother’s sleeve tighter. “It’s loud,” she said softly.
Jack nodder, “Loud, crowded, and boring. Triple threat. But you know what helps?”
She tilted her head, curious.
“Imagine everyone in line is wearing socks on their heads instead of shoes on their feet.”
The girl giggled, her nervousness fading just a little. Her mother glanced back at Jack with a grateful smile, and he winked. “Works every time.”
By the time Jack reached the front of the line, his annoyance had settled into a simmering mix of exhaustion and resignation. The Bolian security officer at the scanner looked up as he handed over his Starfleet credentials.
“Lieutenant Jack Hunter,” the Bolian said, scanning the ID chip. His gaze flicked to Jack’s face, taking in the tired eyes and faint smirk. “You’re assigned to the USS Pioneer, correct?”
“That’s me,” Jack replied. “Engineer, miracle worker, and occasional pain in the rear. All rolled into one convenient package.”
The Bolian’s expression didn’t change. “Welcome to Empok Nor. Next!”
Jack grabbed his duffel and stepped through the checkpoint, rolling his shoulders to work out the stiffness. The starbase’s promenade stretched out before him, alive with vendors hawking goods, Starfleet officers hurrying to their assignments, and civilians milling about.
As he walked, Jack muttered to himself, his tone dry but tinged with determination. “Alright, Pioneer. Let’s see what kind of mess you’ve got waiting for me.
”And with that, Jack disappeared into the thrumming heart of the starbase.
A Post By
Lieutenant Junior Grade Jack Hunter
Chief Engineering Officer, USS Pioneer
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