From Spock, his very Half-Vulcan science officer to Michael, his very much Vulcan raised science officer, Pike had learned that young and logical made an odd but fascinating combination. Typically it resulted in a lot more laughter at someone's expense and a lot of dry remarks, not enough to indicate any sort of inclination towards hijinks but enough to show to Pike at least a sense of humor. Which really, was all he could ask for in somebody on his crew.

"She's good at that, smoothing things over that the rest of us tend to get ourselves stuck in." He couldn't help the moment to chew on his bottom lip at Kirk's choice in words, because he couldn't imagine a time where he didn't have Boyce or Number One around to help harass cadets and junior officers with. But it was Kirk's own story that made Pike smile. "Gymnastics? I can just imagine how much of a sight you were for your crew."