Vacation Plans

Posted on 21 Jan 2025 @ 7:24pm by Lieutenant JG Dylan McConnor & Lieutenant Commander Stovek

686 words; about a 3 minute read

Mission: Shoreleave and Reassignment
Location: Starbase 375
Timeline: Current

The medical facilities on Starbase 375 were state-of-the-art. But nonetheless, and even with centuries of technological advances, hospitals always seemed to smell of disinfectant. Dylan winced as the doors parted at his approach and his sense of smell was assaulted by the odors.

He checked the boards, and located the room where Commander Stovek was being treated. The Vulcan Chief of Operations was still suffering from severe burns to his hands, and McConnor felt the need to check up on him.

“…if you want the tissue to heal without scarring,” said a Human woman in as stern of a tone as she could muster, “you will complete the remaining time in the regeneration cradle.”

“The medical staff on the Cygnus discharged me to duty,” said the Vulcan defensively. “I am fine.”

“You left against medical advice during a crisis situation, Commander. They did not ‘discharge you to duty’. Remember, I can hold you here for observation indefinitely.”

“Very well,” said Stovek, resigning himself to the fact that he was going to spend the next four hours under intense dermal and tissue regeneration. He turned his head as another figure entered the therapy suite. “Lieutenant McConnor. It is… agreeable to see you again. Do you also require regenerative therapy?”

"No," replies Dylan. "I'm fine. My injuries were minor. I was just granted shore leave on Elysia, I just wanted to check up on you before I left."

“That…” began the Vulcan. “That… is very kind of you. Apparently, I require another three hours of deep regenerative tissue therapy before the Doctors will medically clear me.” He paused for a brief moment. “Have you made specific plans for shore leave?”

"They say Starfleet has been granted access to cabins by the beach on Elysia. Something apparently long term, at least as long as the refit lasts. I was lucky enough to get one. So lots of rest and relaxation on the beach."

“I have been told that the beaches are quite picturesque. I typically favor a hotter and drier environment… but I could probably be persuaded to swim. Assuming you would not mind the company, of course.”

"I'd be happy to," said Dylan. "Though from what I've heard, the place we've been granted access to, each cabin has its own private pool, and direct access to the lagoon. The Captain might need you here for a few days to help coordinate the refit, but you're more than welcome to join me when you're able."

His mind went to the list of fallen crewmembers, and all the comrades he'd lost. So many friends now gone. Mates who wouldn't be there for one last round of drinks at Fat Alice's after a late shift. Friends who wouldn't race with him on the Holodeck. A sudden wave of emotion washed over him and he felt his throat tighten. "Actually I think I could use the company."

Stovek nodded once. "Indeed," he said. "Given all that we have been through, I believe that a little fun is warranted. I have always believed that the most appropriate way to celebrate the lives and achievements of others is to accomplish things in their name... even if what you accomplish is nothing more than a little fun."

"You mean live," replied Dylan, his voice hollow. "The best way to honor their lives is to live your own to the fullest. At least, that's what the Counselors say."

The corners of the Vulcan’s mouth turned upward ever so slightly, the closest thing to a smile that one could expect from him. “The Counselors, as you Humans would say, hit that nail directly on the head.” He paused for a moment, enjoying the subtle warmth of the light in the tissue regeneration cradle. “Forward the location details to my inbox and I will join you when I am able.”

"Sure thing," said Dylan.

He gave the Vulcan a last parting nod, and turned on his heels to seek out transport to Elysia.

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A post by

Lt JG Dylan McConnor
Engineering Officer
USS Cygnus

And

Lt Cmdr Stovek
Chief Operations Officer
USS Cygnus

 

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