Crewman Mateo Gardel

Character Information

Gender		Male
Species		Human
Place of Birth		Buenos Aires, Earth
Age		23
Date of Birth		2368-02-14

Physical Appearance

Height		185.4 cm
Weight		63.9 kg
Hair Color		Black
Eye Color		Brown
Physical Description		Mateo possesses a strikingly unique attractiveness that defies conventional standards. Standing relatively tall, his frame carries a slight yet subtly toned physique, suggesting a blend of grace and strength. His ears, which sit closer to his skull, feature gently rounded helices and detached lobes; the left lobe is elegantly adorned with a simple silver hoop. Thick, well-groomed eyebrows frame his warm, chocolate-brown eyes, which are deep and expressive, perfectly complemented by his olive skin tone that radiates health. His complexion is smooth and blemish-free, with a supple quality. Typically, Mateo maintains a slight layer of stubble, lending an air of effortless charm, while he keeps body hair minimal. A notable yet subtle detail is a small pigmented birthmark on the inner part of his upper left thigh, resembling a café-au-lait spot. This oval-shaped mark, darker than his skin, is about the size of a child's palm and adds a unique character to his appearance. His full, peach-colored lips frame a set of well-cared-for teeth, creating a captivating and sincere smile (when he does smile). In terms of hairstyle, Mateo has opted for a distinctive look: the sides of his head are cropped closely to the skin, while the top and back are left longer, reminiscent of a modern mullet. Vibrant colors further enhance this hairstyle; at present, bright pink chunks weave through the longer sections of his hair, capturing attention without overwhelming his overall appearance. Mateo pays attention to detail in his grooming, with his fingers and toenails meticulously manicured. He favors slightly longer fingernails, often decorated with vibrant polish that harmonizes with the hues in his hair. His off-duty wardrobe reflects his eclectic spirit, prioritizing comfort while embracing gender-nonconforming styles. Each outfit is a personal expression, allowing him to navigate the world with a sense of individuality, even as he combines elements that may vary in modesty and convention. Mateo currently sports over 25 individual tattoos, each with unique and personal significance. His body art is spread across various areas, including his face, chest, abdomen, arms, and legs, extending to some of his fingers and toes. While no clear theme connects the different pieces, they all reflect meaningful moments or experiences in his life. Most of these tattoos are concealed beneath his uniform, with only the more visible ones on his face and fingers visible. Despite regulations prohibiting visible body modifications while on duty, Mateo typically wears a discreet hoop piercing in his lower right lip, adding a subtle touch to his appearance. Distinguishing Features: Mateo currently has ear and lip piercings and numerous tattoos on different parts of his body, including his face, torso, arms, and legs. However, most of his body art is covered when he is in uniform. He has a small birthmark on the inner upper part of his left thigh. Faceclaim: Ca7riel

Family

Spouse		None at this time
Children		None at this time
Mother		Renata Gabriela de Luce (Adoptive mother)
Father		Unknown
Siblings		Benjamin Santino de Luce (Adoptive brother)
Other Family		None to mention at this time

Personality & Traits

General Overview		Mateo has often been described in a variety of ways throughout his life: wild, free-spirited, divisive, adversarial, sarcastic, and rebellious. While some of these labels may hold a kernel of truth, they fail to capture the full complexity of his personality, which runs far deeper than what others typically recognize. Diagnosed with oppositional defiance disorder, Mateo has a strong resistance to overt authority and reacts defensively to any attempts to control him, whether personally, professionally, or physically. He consistently challenges structure, routine, and the status quo, often at considerable cost to his potential career within Starfleet. Those in leadership positions find him difficult to manage and often feel disheartened, quickly abandoning hopes of mentoring him in ways that might promote his personal and professional growth. Frustrated by his sarcastic and seemingly indifferent demeanor, they often choose to keep their distance, unwilling to associate with what some have labeled a waste of considerable talent. Colleagues tend to interact with him only when absolutely necessary, usually met with his snappish greetings and dismissive responses. Despite this surface-level disengagement, Mateo possesses a sharp intellect and a remarkable skill set. His superiors and peers recognize his potential, yet they frequently hesitate to invest in nurturing it, deterred by his challenging behavior. They assume he is oblivious to their perceptions of him, dismissing their comments as if he were not listening. In reality, he absorbs everything around him, always attentive to the opinions and actions of others, which only reinforces his defensive mechanisms and keeps people at arm's length. The scars of his past—specifically, the abandonment experienced by his biological parents—lead him to question why anyone would genuinely invest in cultivating strong and meaningful relationships. His actions and behaviors carry real consequences, which explains why he has scarcely advanced within Starfleet, bouncing from assignment to assignment after three years of service. Yet these actions are not without merit; they serve as a protective barrier against those he feels may seek to take advantage of him. In some ways, he finds solace in his isolation, even as he longs for deeper connections. While he may seem indifferent, he is not oblivious to how his demeanor impacts those around him. At surface level, he might appear uncaring, but beneath that exterior lies a desire to connect that often goes unrecognized by his peers and superiors despite the small acts of service he offers. Cracking open the shell he has built around himself is no small feat. However, those who succeed in reaching him will discover a person of profound compassion, intelligence, and a playful spirit. Mateo possesses deep passions, wants, needs, and desires that invite exploration. As part of his enlistment, he is required to meet regularly with a counselor to maintain his mental health care plan and evaluation, a practice that has been in place long before he joined Starfleet. His progress and challenges are routinely communicated to his superior officers, who often engage in his care plan to varying degrees. Unfortunately, many direct supervisors give up on their attempts to connect when faced with his persistent pushback and dismissive reactions. Head Canons through the Five Senses Sight - Vibrantly colored hair and nails - Loose knitted cashmere sweaters - Modest decor that subtly tells a story - The flicker of shadows from a candle - The sun shining through stained glass Sound - Pine trees swaying in the wind - A purring cat - Music on endless play - Soft conversation - The strum of a guitar Smell - Teak and mahogany cologne - Vanilla candles - Hair smelling of citrus - Lavender and mint body wash - Sprigs of apple blossoms Touch - Clean sheets - Grass beneath bare feet - Calloused fingers and palms - A soft, gentle breeze - Lemon peel Taste - Coffee - Honey - Lime - Cardamom and ginger - Salty popcorn Mateo's Shipper Familial: Mateo is a vibrant young man whose dynamic personality shines brightly against the backdrop of his close-knit family life. His adoptive mother, Renata, embodies warmth and strength, while his older brother, Benjamin, serves as both a confidant and a guiding presence. Together, they form an unbreakable bond that steadies Mateo, a soul that often crackles with energy and unpredictability. From a young age, Mateo has embraced his identity within this family, never feeling a longing to seek out his biological parents. Rather, he holds a deep-rooted respect for the decision made for him to be adopted, believing it was an act of love meant to prioritize his well-being. In a tribute to that difficult choice, Mateo has chosen to continue using his biological parents' last name, a subtle acknowledgment of their sacrifice. While the de Luce name carries its own significance, Mateo feels little inclination to pursue it, knowing that it would require the approval of his maternal grandparents—relationship dynamics that remain distant and strained. Instead, his heart is firmly anchored with Renata and Benjamin, the two people he prioritizes above all else. Their opinions matter deeply to him, and despite the times he has unintentionally disappointed them, he is motivated by an unwavering desire to make them proud. Mateo invests significant effort into maintaining communication with his family in his quest for personal growth and fulfillment. He frequently writes letters to Renata and Benjamin, infusing each note with his thoughts, reflections, and updates on his life. Technology is vital in keeping the family connected; he video calls them several times a week when circumstances allow. Sundays are particularly special, as they hold a standing group call that reinforces the sense of togetherness no matter the physical distance between them. Mateo relishes these moments, cherishing their laughter, encouragement, and love, reinforcing his commitment to thriving—even in a universe that often feels like a daunting battleground. Platonic: Mateo navigates life as a solitary figure, lacking the meaningful friendships he secretly longs for. He often appears aloof to others, shrouded in a façade of sarcasm and indifference that acts as a barrier against deeper connections. His behavior—an intriguing mix of reticence and sharp retorts—can deter those who might otherwise wish to draw closer. Most people find it challenging to penetrate the surface of his demeanor; they tire of his seemingly dismissive attitude, which masks his genuine desire for companionship. Beneath this hardened exterior lies a tender-hearted individual, quietly yearning for connection yet fearful of vulnerability. Mateo's reluctance to invest in relationships stems from a deep-seated apprehension of being judged or abandoned—a consequence of letting others in too closely. This self-imposed distance is both a shield and a prison, keeping potential friends at bay while safeguarding him from the pain of rejection. If patient enough to look past his prickly shell, one may uncover a gentle soul rich in kindness and compassion. His warmth often reveals itself in subtle gestures—small, thoughtful acts that speak volumes about his care for those he cherishes. Whether lending a listening ear or offering a reassuring smile, Mateo expresses his affection quietly, preferring the understated over grand displays of emotion. In these modest moments, those fortunate enough to connect with him may finally glimpse the depth of the love he holds within. Romantic: Mateo has always navigated the complex landscape of relationships with caution, particularly when it comes to the intimate connections he craves yet hesitates to pursue. Identifying as gay, he finds himself caught between longing for closeness and grappling with a deep-seated apprehension about vulnerability. While his outward demeanor may suggest disinterest, this starkly contrasts with the reality of his feelings. In conversations about romance, Mateo often feels uncomfortable and tends to deflect inquiries about his love life, quickly distancing himself from discussions that could lead to personal revelations or, heaven forbid, physical intimacy. His reluctance stems from a profound need for trust; for Mateo, opening his heart—and body—to someone requires an unwavering assurance that they genuinely care for him and harbor no hidden agendas. The fear of being used remains a shadow that looms over his desires, making him particularly sensitive to rejection and the possibility of abandonment. Despite his hesitations, Mateo yearns for the warmth and connection that intimacy brings. However, he is resolute in prioritizing his emotional wellness above all else. Should he ever find the right person to share that next step, they would discover a partner who is attentive and genuinely invested in nurturing their happiness—sometimes at the expense of his own needs. This selflessness is particularly striking, considering the careful guard he keeps around his own heart. Mateo's journey toward intimacy involves introspection and cautious consideration, reflecting the delicate balance between desire and the wisdom of self-protection.
Strengths & Weaknesses		Mateo’s resilience is perhaps his most defining strength. Having faced abandonment in his past, he has developed a profound sense of emotional self-preservation. While this often manifests as guardedness and emotional distance, it allows him to endure hardship without losing himself. Even in uncertainty, his ability to maintain composure reflects his capacity to manage external pressures. However, it sometimes comes at the cost of emotional suppression, as he avoids showing vulnerability to others. Beneath his tough exterior lies a compassionate individual who subtly expresses care. These small acts of service and quiet gestures often go unnoticed but reveal his genuine desire to connect with others on a deeper level. Mateo is exceptionally self-aware, observing and analyzing the actions, motivations, and dynamics of those around him with quiet intensity. While his sarcasm and aloof demeanor may obscure it, his insight into human behavior is sharp and deeply intuitive. This skill is invaluable in navigating complex environments, enabling him to assess situations and build rapport quickly. Intellectually, Mateo is sharp and observant. His ability to challenge assumptions and think unconventionally makes him an excellent problem solver. He often approaches issues from unique angles, finding innovative solutions that others might overlook. While his creative mindset can sometimes disrupt established norms, it makes him a valuable asset when traditional approaches fall short. Mateo's meticulous organizational skills set him apart in his professional life as a laboratory technician specializing in microbiology, histology, and hematology. Almost obsessive in his attention to detail, he ensures that the lab is fully stocked with the supplies, tools, and equipment scientists need to conduct experiments effectively. His ability to anticipate these needs minimizes downtime and maximizes efficiency. Despite not being part of his formal responsibilities, Mateo has also excelled in fieldwork. Past superiors often assigned him field duties, both for his thoroughness and as a way to manage interpersonal tensions. Mateo embraced these tasks, ensuring samples were collected and preserved meticulously, contributing to reliable results. Another hallmark of Mateo’s professional and personal approach is his deliberateness. He avoids rushing or speculating, instead gathering as much information as possible to make informed analyses, decisions, or recommendations. This commitment to thoroughness makes him a trusted resource for reliable conclusions, even under pressure. Finally, Mateo’s willingness to engage in personal growth demonstrates his more profound desire for connection and self-improvement. His participation in counseling as part of his mental health care plan speaks to his openness to change, even if progress is slow. Though he rarely shows vulnerability, his efforts reflect an underlying drive for personal evolution. Despite his many strengths, Mateo’s resistance to authority is a pronounced weakness. His oppositional defiance disorder often causes him to perceive authority figures and established structures as threats to his autonomy. This leads him to challenge orders and question protocols, not out of malice but to assert control over his environment. While his critiques are often insightful, they can create friction with superiors and hinder his career progression. Despite his undeniable skills, his defiant attitude makes it difficult for others to invest in his potential. Mateo’s tendency to keep others at a distance is a defense mechanism and a significant barrier to forming meaningful relationships. Though a defense mechanism, his sarcastic and dismissive demeanor sometimes overshadows the subtle compassion he shows through small acts of care, creating misunderstandings about his true intentions. Though he deeply desires connection, his reluctance to open up emotionally keeps him isolated. This emotional distance often leaves him feeling disconnected, even as he quietly yearns for belonging. While contributing to his meticulousness in professional settings, Mateo's perfectionism can sometimes hinder progress by slowing tasks that require adaptability or quick decision-making. His insistence on thoroughness and adherence to established workflows makes him resistant to improvisation or rapid changes. While his meticulous nature is an asset, it can slow down tasks requiring speed or adaptability. Additionally, his overreliance on evidence and refusal to speculate can cause delays in environments that require quick decision-making. Mateo’s humor, while often a source of levity, is most effective in casual interactions. However, if misinterpreted as dismissive, it can backfire in high-stakes or emotionally charged situations. His sarcasm and snark, intended as coping mechanisms or icebreakers, are sometimes mistaken as flippant or dismissive. This can lead to misunderstandings, leaving colleagues feeling unsupported when they need empathy or reassurance. His communication style, while sharp and witty, can sometimes alienate those who are unfamiliar with his intentions. Emotionally, Mateo struggles with vulnerability. He suppresses his feelings to maintain composure, fearing that exposing them might weaken him. This emotional suppression often prevents him from fully processing his experiences, leading to unresolved stress and a sense of emotional disconnection. While admirable, his strong sense of independence is balanced by his ability to collaborate effectively during fieldwork, where teamwork is essential for success. He prefers to solve problems alone, hesitating to rely on others for help. This reluctance to collaborate deeply can prevent him from forming stronger professional and personal relationships. In sum, Mateo’s strengths—his resilience, insight, meticulousness, and creativity—make him a remarkable individual. However, his resistance to authority, emotional guardedness, and struggles with adaptability and communication create challenges that he must continuously navigate. These positive and negative qualities shape Mateo into a complex and compelling person with significant depth.
Ambitions		Mateo Gardel is a passionate and complex individual who longs for connection, self-discovery, and redemption. Despite his guarded demeanor and resistance to authority, he yearns for meaningful relationships, particularly with his adoptive family, who remain his anchor. Professionally, Mateo is fueled by his fascination with the sciences, especially microbiology and histology, aspiring to contribute to groundbreaking research and explore the vast unknowns of the galaxy. His assignment aboard the USS Fenrir represents a pivotal opportunity to redeem his tumultuous Starfleet career and prove his worth as a scientist and a team member. Balancing his desire for personal freedom with a need to overcome his defiance, Mateo’s journey is one of transformation, seeking to harness his potential while navigating the challenges of trust and vulnerability.
Hobbies & Interests		Outside of his fervent interest in the sciences, Mateo nurtures a quiet yet profound appreciation for the world of art, particularly watercolor painting. He finds solace in the gentle flow of colors on canvas, and whenever the opportunity arises, he can be found sketching in a serene corner or immersed in a painting session. When he’s not wielding a brush, Mateo often indulges in the escapism of reading, favoring the guilty pleasure of romance novels—though he would never openly admit it. His correspondence with his adoptive mother and older brother fills his heart with warmth as he pours his thoughts into letters that bridge the distance between them. Mateo frequently utilizes the holodeck and other recreational facilities for physical activity, seamlessly alternating between invigorating runs and refreshing swims, which he approaches with dedication. Music is another great love of his life; he delights in exploring a vast array of genres, eagerly discovering new singers, songwriters, and composers that captivate his attention. Currently, Mateo is undertaking the challenge of learning to play the acoustic guitar, utilizing the holodeck for guidance. Though his progress is slow, he embraces the journey, sometimes opting to stray from the guidance of his holographic instructor in search of his personal style. One of his cherished pastimes is finding a quiet nook in the mess hall or lounge, a simple beer in hand as he tunes into the vibrant tapestry of conversations around him. In those moments, he enjoys the art of people-watching, silently weaving stories from the snippets of lives that unfold before him, living vicariously through the myriad of interactions that give life to the mundane. Mateo's Playlist: Click here!
Languages Spoken		Spanish Vernacular: Mateo's vernacular is sharp, direct, and unapologetically blunt, with a subtle but noticeable Argentine accent that carries the distinctive cadence of Rioplatense Spanish. His speech often cuts through pleasantries with unfiltered sarcasm and dry wit, making his communication both sharp and disarming. The accent adds a layer of intensity to his words, particularly when he’s frustrated or passionate, lending an extra edge to his directness. His humor, typically sarcastic, serves as both a defense mechanism and a way to express frustration, challenging others or deflecting vulnerability. Beneath the sarcasm, there’s a subtle playfulness that can build connections, though it often comes wrapped in teasing or indirect remarks. Mateo’s speech can become dismissive when he feels disengaged or disrespected, and in moments of trust, his language softens just enough to reveal his deeper emotions. His vernacular is a blend of wit, detachment, underlying vulnerability, and the rhythmic flow of his Argentine roots.

Background		Mateo Angel Gardel was born on February 14th, 2368, in the bustling city of Buenos Aires, Argentina. From the moment he entered the world, he found himself in the care of child and family services due to circumstances beyond his control. Although a healthy baby boy, Mateo was anything but easy to soothe. He was often fussy and irritable, his cries echoing through the sterile hospital corridors for what felt like hours on end. Renata Gabriela de Luce stepped into his life during one of these challenging moments. A compassionate social worker employed at the hospital, Renata, was assigned to Mateo’s case and immediately felt a connection to the fragile infant. Their bond was palpable, with Mateo seemingly aware of the comfort Renata offered. She had a calming presence that differed remarkably from everyone else in the ward. His primary physician noted how effortlessly she could cradle the typically inconsolable newborn, a feat that had eluded many of the hospital staff despite their varied attempts and techniques. Renata, too, recognized something special in Mateo. She saw reflections of her own struggles in this tiny being. Having faced similar challenges with her biological son, Benjamin, now seven years old and well past any colicky phases, she understood the depths of a mother’s love and the power of a nurturing touch. Each time she held Mateo, it was as if they were both finding solace in one another—a promise of kinship born from shared experiences and unspoken understanding. Through Renata’s unwavering care, Mateo began to find moments of peace, their connection blossoming into something more profound than mere caregiver and child. Renata welcomed Mateo into her life when he was just a tiny child, fostering him during his early years with tender care and unwavering commitment. Their bond grew deep, so much so that Renata formally adopted him shortly after his sixth birthday, affirming their family connection. To an outside observer, Earth’s society appeared to be a sanctuary of utopian ideals, a realm seemingly devoid of crime, poverty, and inequality. This façade was built upon opportunities designed for the collective good. However, even in this seemingly perfect world, no society can eradicate all instances of deviance or antisocial behavior—rare as they might be. Mateo's existence challenged the very ideals of this harmonious environment. Mateo's vibrant spirit was evident from the moment he entered the world. A loud, fierce wailing marked his arrival, a prelude to the tumultuous journey ahead. He was not just a difficult child; he was a tempest, embodying an unmanageable energy that rendered him a source of concern for caregivers and educators alike. In the classroom, his exuberance often spiraled into disruptiveness, manifesting an array of mental health challenges that had been presumed to be addressed and resolved centuries ago. Teachers described Mateo as a wild child—an embodiment of chaos and raw emotion, fiercely independent and resistant to authority. Mateo's rebellious demeanor led him into frequent clashes with his classmates, fueled by teasing and misunderstandings that often escalated into physical altercations. His behaviors became alarmingly disruptive, leading school officials to refer him to the psychologist for mental health counseling—an intervention that aimed to draw out the underlying feelings that Mateo grappled with. The counselors, dedicated to a restorative approach, worked diligently to help Mateo identify his emotions, encouraging him to channel his energy into more productive outlets. This method proved effective in reducing his violent confrontations, yet it starkly revealed that Mateo wrestled with oppositional defiance. During counseling sessions, his responses showcased a steadfast refusal to conform; if a teacher suggested a healthy coping mechanism, he would defiantly choose the opposite. One particular incident stood out amidst the turmoil. In a moment of frustration, an exasperated and overwhelmed teacher lashed out physically, slapping Mateo across the face. The shock of this confrontation sent Mateo into a complete meltdown, leading to his removal from the classroom. It highlighted the deeply ingrained struggles he faced, both emotionally and behaviorally. Throughout this turbulent period, Renata remained a steadfast anchor in Mateo’s life. She cultivated a structured home environment brimming with rules and responsibilities but equally emphasized the importance of personal choice. She encouraged him to navigate his decisions thoughtfully, illustrating the profound connection between actions and their consequences, whether they were positive or negative. In collaboration with his counselors, Mateo embarked on a gradual journey toward development, slowly learning to adopt healthier coping mechanisms at home and in the few structured environments he encountered. Ultimately, he transitioned away from the formal classroom setting altogether, opting to work independently with a private tutor and behavioral specialist tailored to his unique needs. Each step of this journey was a testament to Mateo's resilience, underpinned by Renata's unwavering support and belief in his potential to channel his vibrant spirit into something truly remarkable. If there was one person, aside from Renata, who held Mateo's unwavering attention and respect, it was his adoptive brother, Benjamin. To the outside world, Benjamin was simply an older sibling, but to Mateo, he was a towering figure of strength and wisdom. Seven years Mateo's senior, Benjamin seemed to instinctively grasp the complexities of Mateo’s thoughts and feelings, diving beneath the surface in a way that others often failed to do or were too reluctant to explore. Their bond was profound, transcending the typical hierarchy of sibling relationships. In Benjamin, Mateo found a safe haven, someone who not only understood him but also embraced him fully, offering a refuge where secrets were safeguarded and vulnerabilities acknowledged. Their closeness was palpable, with Mateo often confiding in Benjamin about his dreams and fears, sharing thoughts he would never dare to voice to anyone else. Benjamin, with his calm demeanor and thoughtful responses, became the perfect sounding board. He was skilled at keeping Mateo’s secrets and even more adept at offering insightful advice, often sharing various perspectives on the maelstrom of emotions and experiences that Mateo faced. Through his unique ability to communicate, Benjamin translated the world around them into comprehensible terms, helping Mateo navigate the tumultuous journey from childhood into adolescence. With every milestone, Mateo found himself wanting to emulate Benjamin’s admirable qualities. Benjamin’s studiousness and well-behaved nature cast a long shadow, becoming a source of inspiration for Mateo. This admiration fueled Mateo’s desire to rise above the unruly reputation that others placed on him. As he inched closer to adolescence, it became evident that Mateo was evolving into a more complex individual, one whose potential was starting to unfurl. However, the defiance that marked Mateo's childhood clung to him into his teenage years like a stubborn shadow. Yet amidst his snarky repartee and often adversarial demeanor, there existed a spark of quiet intelligence that flickered beneath the surface, waiting for the right moment to shine. It was Benjamin who first recognized this spark, noticing Mateo’s burgeoning interest in the sciences and encouraging him to delve deeper into this newfound passion. Unlike his engagement with other subjects, Mateo was captivated by the life sciences, particularly biology, anatomy, and biochemistry, where he found a profound resonance that would eventually guide his educational path. With each shared book and nuanced discussion, Benjamin nurtured Mateo’s intellectual thirst, often introducing him to materials that surpassed his current grade level. As the two brothers engaged in intimate tutoring sessions, Mateo’s knowledge began to burgeon, eventually eclipsing even that of his older brother, particularly in the intricate field of microbiology. Amusement danced in Mateo's eyes as he relayed his aspirations of becoming a scientist to Benjamin, who, jokingly, warned him against veering into the realm of the archetypical ‘mad scientist.’ Beyond the confines of academia, Mateo's creative outlets emerged, painting a fuller portrait of his personality. His passion for science unveiled a hidden talent for art as he meticulously illustrated the anatomy of cells, bacteria, and viruses. This fascination with the natural world further blossomed into a love for watercolor painting, enabling Mateo to translate the intricate beauty of his subjects onto canvas. Athleticism, too, found its way into his life; cross-country running and competitive diving became vital outlets for his boundless energy, allowing him to channel his restlessness into physical pursuits. Coaches and teachers alike recognized the latent potential in Mateo, but his persistent sarcasm and prickly demeanor often hindered deeper connections that might have fostered his development. Mateo was exhausting in his relentless pursuit of independence, continuously testing the patience of those around him. Yet, unbeknownst to many, this resilient defiance stemmed from a deeply ingrained defense mechanism. It had grown as a protective shield, forged in response to the unspeakable actions of someone meant to love and nurture him. This twisted interpretation of healthy relationships haunted Mateo, shaping his interactions and giving rise to a profound complexity that would take time and understanding to unravel. In a world where he often felt adrift, Benjamin remained the constant lighthouse, guiding him through the turbulence of adolescence and into the uncharted waters of adulthood. Life after secondary school presented very few options for Mateo, a young man with a restless spirit and an insatiable curiosity about the world beyond Earth. Despite the unwavering encouragement of Renata and Benjamin, who had always believed in his potential, Mateo hesitated when it came to exploring post-secondary schools that could nurture his passion for the sciences. He harbored dreams of diving into microbiology or histology, but the traditional academic route felt stifling rather than liberating. Mateo had always been a free thinker, drawn more to the realms of imagination and exploration than to the rigidity of structured education. As a result, he was determined to take a gap year, a notion that was met with stern disapproval. They watched in frustration as he lingered in indecision, aware of his tendency to lose focus on the important decisions in life. What left Renata and Benjamin utterly bewildered was Mateo's announcement that he would enlist in Starfleet. They were baffled by this choice, a leap into a pseudo-military organization that seemed worlds apart from the rigid order and structure he was constantly railing against. They had envisioned him attending university—imagining him nestled in a library filled with textbooks, conducting experiments under the watchful eye of esteemed professors. Yet here was Mateo, drawn to the stars and the adventurous life that lay beyond their protective embrace. With passion shining in his eyes, Mateo explained his reasoning: Starfleet was not merely a military organization; it was an opportunity. It could offer him a sort of gap year where he would immerse himself in the sciences while traveling the galaxy. The idea of conducting research on interstellar phenomena, studying alien ecosystems, and participating in groundbreaking scientific endeavors thrilled him. While he knew he wasn’t suited for the intense rigors of officer training at the Academy, enlistment would still allow him to carve out a meaningful path as a scientist or at the very least, take significant steps toward achieving that dream. As they listened, Renata and Benjamin struggled to reconcile their hopes for Mateo with the reality of his choice. They worried about the rigid structure and discipline inherent in such an environment, qualities that felt foreign to Mateo’s free-spirited nature. They attempted to reason with him, urging him to understand that he would be stepping into a world that was the antithesis of his laid-back approach to life, an environment governed by hierarchies, protocols, and unwavering order. However, Mateo remained steadfast in his resolve. Time and again, he had proven to be defiant, always following his heart regardless of the potential consequences. To Renata and Benjamin, this decision made little sense. Their worry for Mateo deepened, mingled with concern for his safety and happiness in what they perceived to be a harsh and demanding environment. But with every attempt to change his course, Mateo stood firm, unwilling to yield to their fears or their desires for his future. Ultimately, only three weeks later, Mateo found himself standing at the gates of Camp Pike in Northern California, ready to embark on a transformative journey that would shape not just his career but the very essence of who he was meant to become. The weight of his family’s apprehensive love lingered in the air behind him, but he stepped forward with determination, eager to embrace the adventure that awaited in the stars. Starfleet, always at the forefront of understanding and harnessing human potential, was keenly aware of Mateo’s diagnosis of oppositional defiance. They recognized that within the contours of his disorder lay a fiery spirit that, if channeled properly, could lead him to unexpected greatness. As a result, they devised a specialized training approach, leveraging the very defiance that marked his personality to facilitate his growth and success. However, from Mateo’s perspective, the experience felt more like a relentless challenge in a war zone than a nurturing environment. The rigorous demands of basic training exposed Mateo to a level of pressure he had never encountered in his life. His instructors, seasoned veterans of the academy, were both meticulous and insistent, employing techniques that pushed him physically to his limits and intellectually beyond what he believed was possible. Each day felt like a new battlefield, fraught with obstacles designed to test his resilience. While he could sense that their ultimate goal was his personal and professional development, the sheer intensity of their methods only served to exacerbate his trademark snarkiness and sarcasm—his armor against a world he often felt misunderstood him. Mateo was acutely aware of the strategic approach his instructors were using. Rather than feeling guided or supported, he perceived their attempts as a calculated move to break him down, which further fueled his resistance. He became a favored target among them, a challenge they relished. Each time they pushed him to the brink, he responded with equal vigor, meeting their demands with a defiance that was part rebellion, part survival instinct. Unfortunately, this dynamic painted him as an outsider among his peers, who, entrenched in their own defenses, were resistant to the complexities of his character. They participated in their own struggles against conformity, forging a collective bond over their shared defiance of the system but failing to grasp the depths of Mateo’s battles. Throughout the countless hours of training, he often found himself teetering on the verge of washing out, his future with Starfleet hanging by a thread. Yet, it was his undeniable talent and the glimmer of potential that shone through his rebellious exterior that kept him afloat. His instructors, recognizing that rare spark, continued to invest in him, providing the support he resisted so vehemently. After a grueling journey, filled with sweat, tears, and more than a few sarcastic retorts, Mateo barely managed to pass basic training—by the skin of his teeth, as he would later joke. But instead of an end, this marked a new beginning as he was advanced to specialized training, known as A-School, in the sciences. Here, the challenges would continue, but amid the rigor and expectations, there lingered the prospect of finally finding a place where his unique defiance could be converted into discovery and innovation. All for naught, Mateo’s reputation clung to him like a leach, often accompanied by whispers of wasted potential. His journey was marked by a series of hasty transfers and fleeting assignments, each one a testament to both his undeniable talent and his persistent resistance to growth. Mateo had been recognized for his sharp intellect and keen problem-solving abilities. Yet, time and again, those very qualities transformed into a double-edged sword. Each new assignment began with the hope of rejuvenation: a fresh start. His commanding officers, optimistic and eager to mentor, would map out plans for his development, determined to unlock his true potential. However, their enthusiasm often dissolved into frustration as Mateo's adversarial stance and deep-seated skepticism made him a challenging subject for mentorship. He was quick to dismiss advice and slow to engage with opportunities for growth. With a pattern of bouncing from one station to another, it was no surprise that he spent no more than six months at any given post. It became almost routine for his supervisors to look for any available assignments to transfer him, desperate to untangle themselves from the quagmire of his talent that sat dormant, overshadowed by his personal struggles. Each departure came with the same bittersweet farewell: a blend of hope for his future and relief at his leaving. His latest transfer to the USS Fenrir would be markedly different. Starfleet deemed it his final opportunity—a pivotal crossroads that could define the trajectory of his career. The brass knew that if he could not harness his abilities this time, he faced the grim reality of discharge from service. Their faith in his potential was not entirely unfounded; a part of Mateo yearned to return to the straight and narrow path, to conquer his inner turmoil, and finally become the person he had once dreamed of being. Onboard the USS Fenrir, the stakes were higher than ever. Mateo stood on the precipice of change, grappling with his tumultuous past while confronting the possibility of a brighter future. It was here he had a chance—not just for redemption but for transformation, to redefine what it meant to be a member of Starfleet. The question loomed: Would he rise to the occasion or let this final chance slip through his fingers, a bitter reminder of what could have been?
Service Record		2385 - 2387: Attended Starfleet Academy’s enlisted training program. 2387 - 2388: Assigned to the USS Arakov for seven months and reassigned to the USS Calhoun for five months as a microbiology laboratory technician. 2388 - 2389: Reassigned to the USS Valkyrie for three months as a microbiology laboratory technician before being reassigned to the USS Atlantis for nine months as a histology laboratory technician. 2389 - 2391: Reassigned to the USS Ahwatukee’s hematology lab as a technologist. 2391: Reassigned to the USS Fenrir as a Medical Sciences Specialist.