Departure

Posted on Sun Mar 17th, 2024 @ 9:11am by Captain Tristan Faust & Ensign Erahlik Ezazzan

0 words; about a 1 minute read

Mission: Mission 5: The Price of Paradise
Location: Deck 4
Timeline: M5 MD06 (2268.07.29) 2100
Tags: 2268, Character Development, Departure

Erahlik sat alone in his quarters aboard the USS Midway, bathed in the soft glow of the starship's ambient lighting. A communication device came to life on his desk, showing the image of his father, Teecus, from the Clan Ezazzan Sanctuary back home on Skoleos. The wrinkled scales on his elder's face bore witness to years of wisdom and experience and was typically reserved. Yet now, as Erahlik saw, it was wrinkled with worry and concern.

"Your presence is needed, Erahlik. The situation worsens, and the safety of our kin is at stake," his father spoke with a gravitas that mirrored the weight on Erahlik's heart.

Erahlik nodded solemnly, his thick, muscular tail shifting slightly as he responded, "I understand, Father. I will return to the Sanctuary and stand with our clan. Starfleet has been a boon to the Clan, but I understand my duty is first to my kin and family. I protest this decision as elder of the clutch, though I respect your wisdom."

His father looked saddened at the formal protest, their eyes not parting from one another as an exchange of emotion played out. Anger, at first, then shifted into solemn conviction. This turned into eventual submission on Erahlik's expression as his fathers remained the same. The small duel of minds was over even before it began.

"You honor our Clan with your duty, though this duty must be at home," Teecus spoke, recognizing his sons rights as elder of the clutch, but also speaking on his own right as Elder of the Clan. "I have already spoken to Starfleet and my connections. Your Captain will have received by now the missive granting your release. Perhaps soon, should this situation soften, your duty to Skoleos will end and you may return."

Erahlik gulped. "Am I therefore leaving Starfleet?"

"No," Teecus said, quickly. "You will be on leave and return without issue. Though the promise of returning to your vessel of choice cannot be granted. Should this pass, should you return, your service will resume at the choice of Starfleet."

"By your will, Father," Erahlik said, bowing his head slightly. "Thank you."

The transmission ended, leaving Erahlik deep in thought. As he pondered the ramifications of this decision, memories of his time on the Midway flashed before his eyes – the camaraderie with fellow officers, the sense of purpose in exploring the unknown, and the friendships formed light-years away from his homeworld.

Claws dancing over the console, he composed a farewell message to the crew, expressing gratitude and bidding adieu. Each keystroke was imbued with a mix of sorrow and resolve, as he detailed the reasons for his departure and the duty that called him back to the Skoleos.

"Dear Esteemed Crewmates,

It is with a heavy heart and a sense of duty that I type this farewell message to each of you. As the stars beckon me towards new horizons, I find myself torn between the bonds forged on the USS Midway and the honor bound ties that bind me to Clan Ezazzan. I have been called to action by my Elders and my honor demands I recognize the call.

My journey aboard this venerable Constitution-class starship has been nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment I stepped aboard, I was welcomed into a family of diverse individuals, each contributing their unique strengths to the collective mission of the Federation. The Midway has been a beacon of camaraderie, exploration, and a symbol of hope in the vastness of space that few should or can ignore.

However, duty calls, and the echoes of my Clan reverberate in the corridors of my conscience. Recent hostilities between the Gorn Hegemony and the Federation have placed my kin in peril on Skoleos, prompting a summons that I cannot ignore. The refuge my clan found within the Federation has become threatened, and the need to stand beside them in this tumultuous time is undeniable. I must return if only for a short while to ensure they are preserved, protected, and my part in the legacy is ensured.

In the face of adversity on Skoleos, I must return to the fold, to lend my strength and expertise where it is needed most to my Clan. The intricate dance of diplomacy and the preservation of my people's way of life compel me to heed the call of duty beyond the familiar hull of the Midway. While I do not want to, I must, for I owe this much to my Clan.

To Captain and crew, I extend my deepest gratitude for allowing me to serve with you. I have created fond memories of both duty and service which has brought my Clan much honor. Through you, and my short time here, Clan Ezazzan has gained a solid place in the Federation. Know that my time among you has been a privilege, and the Midway will forever hold a place in my heart.

May the stars guide each of you on your continued journey, and may the path ahead be filled with discovery and prosperity. I hope to one day see you again.

With utmost respect and heartfelt farewells,

Erahlik Ezazzan"

Once the message was complete, Erahlik hesitated for a moment, contemplating the bittersweet nature of the situation. With a heavy sigh, he pressed the transmit button, sending his farewell straight to Captain Faust for his direct consideration and distribution.

As the message left his claws, Erahlik couldn't help but feel a profound sense of duty fulfilled, though the ache of departure lingered. The stars outside his window seemed to silently bear witness to the turning point in his journey, knowing that the constellations would guide him back to the familiar embrace of his clan. It hurt, knowing he'd not fulfill his duty here, but the relief of knowing he could still fulfill it on Skoleos ebbed the sadness - if but only a little.

 

RSS Feed