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Sam looked nervously around the training room. “I’m not sure about this.”
“You agreed to help with security training,” La’an replied.
“Well, yes, but I thought you meant setting up targets for phaser practice or pretending to be a hostage for drills.” He gestured at Runa, who was tethered on the other side of the room. “Not doing…dog training.”
“As a biologist and an anthropologist, your feedback will help me refine Runa’s training as a security officer.” La’an handed him a bag of protective equipment. “You’re performing a valuable service for your crew.”
“Oh, so that’s why you asked for me? I thought it had something to do with wanting to watch me get bitten by your dog,” Sam remarked. He pulled a rubbery, vaguely reptilian mask out of the bag and frowned. “Is this supposed to be a Gorn?”
“Just put it on and stand right here.” La’an led him a few meters away and walked away as he donned his equipment, including the mask. “And try not to scream.” She unhooked Runa’s leash and pointed at Sam. “Get him.”
“Wait a sec—” Runa bolted towards him. Sam yelped and covered his face as Runa jumped up and yipped. He braced himself for an attack.
But nothing happened. Sam tentatively lowered his hands and looked down at the tiny dog wagging her tail at him. “Aw, you’re actually pretty cute,” he said. He bent down and let her sniff his hand, then stroked her fur. “And very soft, too.”
“Don’t pet the guard dog,” La’an snapped.
Sam laughed. “I don’t know if she’s guard dog material, Lieutenant.” She glared as he scooped up the dog. “Hey, you said you wanted my professional opinion.”
La’an shook her head and retrieved Runa from Sam’s arms. “Come on. Let’s try again.”