A Favor to Ask

Posted on Sun Apr 23rd, 2017 @ 6:04pm by Lieutenant T'Pral & Commodore Samantha York

786 words; about a 4 minute read

Mission: Pulling Together
Location: Ready Room
Timeline: Directly following "To Err is..."

ON:

T'Pral, back in a pristine uniform, didn't pay much attention to her surroundings as she made her way to the Bridge. There was much on her mind, and she was about to ask a large favor of Commodore York. Something she did not relish doing. But it had to be done - her life depended on it.

As soon as the turbolift reached her destination, she made a beeline to the Commodore's Ready Room. She paused only briefly to ensure she was still perfectly assembled before pressing the call button.

"Enter!" Sam said, setting aside the PADD she'd been working on to greet the newcomer.

T'Pral entered crisply, standing before York's desk. "Commodore," she said in greeting with the quick nod of her head. Her face displayed her concern more than would be expected. She paused for a long moment before just coming out with it. "I need to ask a favor of you, Commodore."

Sam stood. "What do you need?" she asked, noting the other woman's distress.

T'Pral started to uncharacteristically pace. She paused for a long moment while she considered how much to share before speaking again, not meeting the Commodore's gaze while she did so. "When I came aboard, I put in for some personal leave. That period is set to begin in a month's time." Her expression hardened as she stopped pacing and refocused on York. She seemed to be exerting effort in forcing a neutral demeanor. "Something has... come up and I will need to begin my leave early. As soon as possible. In addition, I will need to go to Vulcan. I can take a runabout so as to not affect the Calypso's mission.

Now that T'Pral was closer, Sam was getting a barrage of emotions and occcasional images coming from the Vulcan. It was enough for her to know exactly what was going on. "How soon do you have to get there?"

The Vulcan's face hardened, but immediately returned to her usual neutral expression. As she did so, she seemed to recognize her leaking thoughts because her mental guards suddenly snapped shut. "I... have a little time, but if I am delayed more than a few days I will endanger myself and the crew."

Sam nodded. "Do you think you'll be able to get there on your own? The Calypso is due for some shore leave. Nothing says we can't take it on Vulcan. It would get you there faster."

T'Pral nodded in turn. "Alacrity would be preferable, Commodore. I would not inconvenience the Calypso, but if you wish to have shore leave on Vulcan, I will not protest. Indeed, I can suggest some cultural highlights for the crew." She was relieved that, not only did the Commodore not pry into her... condition, but was willing to assist her in this matter. She had heard stories as a student about some Vulcan Starfleet officers not being able to satisfy their requirements in the traditional way and had to resort to extraordinary measures.

"I would personally appreciate a chance to visit Vulcan. We can effect any minor repairs there and perhaps upgrade the science department," Sam said. "I'll make the arrangements. We should have everything arranged within a day, if that will be sufficient?" She knew time was short, and hoped a day wouldn't inconvenience the Vulcan.

"Indeed, Commodore, that would be satisfactory. I will also confer with my former colleagues at the Vulcan Science Academy. I am certain they will have some suggestions to improve our warp core. Other than scheduled maintenance, the core has not had a major refit in many years."

"Excellent." Sam paused for a moment. "You may also want to prepare your Assistant to take over when you start feeling worse. Just in case."

"Lieutenant Dixon is already being given more responsibilities within the department. Her... interpersonal skills need more... guidance, but her technical skill is unsurpassed. She will be prepared for when the time comes." T'pral nodded once in finality, confident that the human would be ready. Social awkwardness notwithstanding.

"As you've noticed, several of the crew have that same problem. I think she'll be fine," Sam assured her. "If there's nothing else, I'll let you make your preparations while I alert the crew."

"Indeed." T'Pral paused for a moment before adding, "Thank you, Commodore." One of the rarest sights in the galaxy graced the Ready Room just then: A Vulcan smile. It was gone as soon as it had appeared. "I will be prepared. For now, I must meditate." She turned to leave and just before triggering the door, her head turned and she said in departure, "Commodore." Then she was gone.

____
OFF

Lieutenant T'Pral
Chief Engineer

Commodore Samantha York
Commanding Officer

 

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