Commander David Cody: Responsibilies to Both Life and the Job
Steve Hood
((Multi-Use Office, Deck 1, USS Doyle-A))
:: The question he threw out there hung for a moment before Sabrina responded. ::
Holly: I think I’ve learned that the red uniform, the pips, and the chair come with a price and a responsibility. The ship, the mission, the crew, and the ideals of Starfleet matter now more than ever and the closer I get to Command the more I have to remember that. I feel that I have become more confident in my ability to lead others, be more aware of my surroundings, and am working on becoming more diplomatic Sir.
:: David digested her words as memories of the past flickered forward. Ships and stations he served on before, as a member of the crew, as a commanding officer, as an advisor, or in some specialist role. More images flashed, of a woman he loved who died in his arms on the main bridge of the ship they served on... the tidal wave of Alliance Gorn storming the decks of DS17 and the mass slaughter as his own fingers executed the act that would kill them… Quinn’s beautiful features who smiled sadly at him, knowing he had chosen the job over their relationship… the Rear Admiral he spoke of smiling up at him from a biobed in Medical as they sipped Acamarian brandy together asking him, “But how do you feel?” ::
:: Taking a deep breath, David tossed his slimpadd on the desk and closed his eyes a moment. ::
Cody: Anything else?
Holly: I’m not expecting a miracle, nor was I expecting a second shot at Command, but if she’s willing to give it to me, I’m willing to rise to the occasion.
:: She smiled then, and it drove nails into his heart. oO You’ve got a good soul, Holly. Oo David felt old then. Time, hardship, pain, experience rolled over. ::
Cody: I’ve got a few more things to review, and then I’ll be discussing my notes with the Captain.
Holly: I understand, thank you for your time Sir. Is there anything else you require of me Sir?
:: Sabrina met his gaze and held it for a brief moment and bowed her head in thanks before looking back up. ::
:: David held her gaze as he studied her. oO But who are you? Oo Oh, she said the words true. Yes, they took on the responsibility of what the uniform and the rank required, but that was only half the equation. He looked at his hands briefly. Sometimes it felt like the blood never came off, regardless of how many years. ::
Cody: ::softly:: But who are you?
Holly: Response
:: No laughter, no humor, but David’s blue gaze smiled with his weathered features softening. ::
Cody: If there’s anything I’ve learned, it’s too easy to get lost in the uniform and rank. It’s a hard enough life as it is, Sabrina. Myself and so many others fell into that trap. Rules, regs, responsibility, and forgot that we’re allowed to have lives. ::smiling:: It can be a lonely life for some. Just don’t forget to take some time and be you. And don't be afraid to show us who you are, either. And if you find someone along the way… ::with a wink:: Treasure it.
Holly: Response
Cody: ::with a wry smile:: You don’t want to marry the job, trust me. I know all about that kind of life. Taking that approach tore my life apart several times before I finally wised up.
Holly: Response
TAG/TBC...
Commander David Cody
Mission Specialist
P237106MB0
"'Star Trek' says that it has not all happened, it has not all been discovered, that tomorrow can be as challenging and adventurous as any time man has ever lived"