Posted on August 9th, 2021 by Velina Tailor
Stardate 12107.28
“Computer, lay in a course for Deep Space Three. Set navigation on Autopilot. Engage.”
The shuttle slid out of Atlantis’s shuttle bay and slowly turned towards it’s next destination. A flash of fire lit it’s nacelles, powering it away from the ship.
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“Hi Dad.
I just wanted to tell you, I put in for a transfer to Starfleet Medical back on Earth, and I got the acceptance letter yesterday.”
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It’s single occupant leaned back in her seat, and relaxed. It would be a long journey. A full day to Deep Space Three at warp. From there, she would board a larger vessel for the two day slipstream voyage back to Earth.
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“I… I can’t fight this war, Dad. Our Captain almost died a few days ago, and two other members of the Senior staff got shot also. They lived this time, but what about next time we get attacked? I’ve lost too many people in my life already, and I don’t want to go through it again. We went through it with Mom during the Dominion War, and you know how difficult that was. And then there was Jessa, during the Tzenkethi war.”
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“You are strong, Velina,” Ilaihr had said, the night of the party, right before they’d fought the first battle.
At the time, she hadn’t believed him.
She didn’t feel strong.
She didn’t want to do this again, and again, and again. This was the third war she’d experienced as an officer in her five year long career. And the fourth war in her lifetime. It was four times too many.
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“I’m going to be working at Starfleet Medical, under the chief of surgery. And I’m planning on coming to see you all in Montana as soon as I get back to Earth. It’ll be good to be home again. I can’t wait.
See you soon, I love you. Velina.”
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Then, she’d finally realized what Ilaihr’s words truly meant to her.
Sometimes, being “strong” is knowing when you need to leave.
3 Comments
Emilaina Acacia says: I’ll definitely miss Tailor’s steady guiding hand. All the love and good wishes on your future endeavors!
Scott Ammora says: Congrats on the last-minute promotion and best wishes in all you do!
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Captain Harper paused while looking over the most recent dispatch from Starfleet Command. On the list of approved promotions was Dr. Tailor, who had just departed the ship. With a wistful smile, she forwarded it along with her congratulations, hoping the newly-minted Lt. Commander would receive the news while traveling, and if not, would at least arrive home to a pleasant surprise.
“Safe travels, Velina,” Kate whispered as she laid a hand over her heart. “And thank you.”