The apparent distinction in Mariner’s character is that she’s so skilled and properly traveled, however solely an ensign when the sequence begins (she’s had her share of demotions). The sense is that she would not have the temperament to climb the Starfleet ladder — in numerous methods than you may anticipate. Certain, she’s louder and extra casual than most Starfleet officers and will get thrown within the brig loads for it, however she’s no egocentric lone wolf.
Suppose again to the pilot, “Second Contact,” the place she goes in opposition to orders to assist the locals of planet Galar by delivering Federation-grade farming tools to them. Her disobedience is guided by a robust ethical compass in addition to a refusal to undergo indignity. As Commander Ransom is aware of, it’s important to earn her affection and respect earlier than she provides it. She values her mates a lot that it is the very purpose she stays a decrease decker; she would not need to make command selections that might value them their lives. This speech in season 3, episode 9 — “Trusted Sources” — says all of it:
“There is a household you are born into, proper, after which the household you select. I’ve bought each right here on the Cerritos. For those who’re measuring by coronary heart, that is the strongest ship within the fleet, as a result of we have got the very best captain on the helm — my mother.”
Mariner’s outlook is not that totally different from the opposite leads of previous “Star Trek” reveals. Consider all of the instances Jim Kirk or Ben Sisko violated the Prime Directive or broke the chain of command for the higher good. Within the “Decrease Decks” season 4 finale, “Outdated Associates, New Planets,” Mariner’s mom, Captain Carol Freeman, disobeys orders to rescue her. Mariner is extra of a chip off the outdated block than she typically appears.