Poseidon Reunion (Part 2)

Posted on Fri Jul 12th, 2024 @ 10:55pm by Lieutenant Charlotte E. "Charlie" Yeager & Lieutenant JG Eradaar Ezazzan

1,090 words; about a 5 minute read

Mission: I-402
Timeline: After 'Poseidon Reunion (Part 1)'

Previously, on Star Trek: Missouri:

However, Charlie quickly raised a finger to indicate a caveat to her statement:

"The kiddos, on the other hand, I try and make sure they see their father regularly, and my eldest has really stepped up in helping make sure her younger siblings get to talk to daddy. I'm really quite proud of how much she's matured in recent years." She said.

Eradaar nodded thoughtfully as she listened to Charlie's explanation, taking note of the complexities of her family situation. She could sense the dedication Charlie had to both her duties as a Starfleet officer and as a mother, and she appreciated the resilience that Charlie's eldest daughter displayed in stepping up to help with her younger siblings.

"It's commendable how you and your family are managing despite the distance," Eradaar began, her tone warm and supportive. "Maintaining regular communication, even when it can't be as frequent as you'd like, is a strong foundation. It's also wonderful to hear about your eldest daughter's maturity and willingness to help. That kind of support within the family can make a significant difference."

And now, the continuation:

She paused for a moment, considering her next words carefully. "It sounds like you're doing everything you can given the circumstances, but I understand that doesn't make it any less challenging. Have you found any particular strategies or routines that help you manage the demands of both your duties and your family life? Perhaps there are ways we can enhance those strategies to provide you with even more support."

Eradaar's eyes conveyed genuine concern and interest, her body language open and inviting. "Additionally, while the constraints of current assignments may limit what can be done about your separation from your husband, there might be creative solutions or opportunities for temporary postings that could bring you closer together, even if only for short periods. I'd be happy to explore those possibilities with you, and advocate on your behalf where appropriate."

She took another sip of her drink, then added, "Remember, you're not alone in this. The Missouri's crew is a community, and we support each other. If there are specific areas where you feel additional help would be beneficial, please don't hesitate to let me know. Whether it's additional childcare support, more flexible work hours, or anything else, we can work together to find a solution."

"Okay, I'll certainly keep that in mind." Charlie said. "So, anyhow, I assume you didn't bring me here just to talk about my family situation, so how about we quit beating around the bush and talk about the Miranda class sized elephant in the room? I understand we've both served aboard the USS Poseidon in the past? Though evidently, we never met back then, because I'd remember you if we had."

"I did, I served on the USS Poseidon," Eradaar said as she was taken somewhat off guard, but regained control quickly. "I served under the tutelage of Lieutenant Vladinchi, if you remember him. I was in the Cadet Training Course."

"Yeah, I'm not sure I stuck around on Poseidon long enough to remember names." Charlie admitted. "You've got to keep in mind- I was either in a Chief or Assistant Chief of Flight Control role for... I wanna say 6 years beforehand, so having to step out of a managerial type role altogether I felt was a career step backwards. I think De'Lenn suspected I wasn't happy, but I didn't receive any kind of support from her for moving on. Pretty much found the Merrimac on my own, and I was happy to see the backside of Poseidon as my transfer shuttle jumped to warp."

Eradaar listened attentively, nodding at Charlie's candidness about her experience on the USS Poseidon. She could understand the frustration of feeling like one's career was stagnating, especially after years of dedicated service in a leadership role. Her own memories of the Poseidon were a mix of challenges and growth, and she sympathized with Charlie's perspective.

"I can understand how that must have been a difficult transition for you," Eradaar began, her tone empathetic. "It's never easy feeling like you're taking a step back in your career, especially when you've worked hard to achieve a leadership position. I also had my own set of challenges on the Poseidon, but I found that the experience helped me grow in unexpected ways."

She paused, choosing her next words carefully. "While our time on the Poseidon may have been different, I believe there's value in every experience, even the ones that seem like setbacks at the time. I'm glad to hear that you found a more fulfilling role on the Merrimac, and now here on the Missouri."

Eradaar leaned forward slightly, her eyes conveying a genuine interest in helping Charlie. "If there's anything specific from your time on the Poseidon that still weighs on you, or if there are any particular experiences you'd like to discuss, I'm here to listen. Sometimes talking about past frustrations can help us gain a new perspective and find closure. And, if there are any ways I can support your current career goals and help you navigate the challenges you're facing now, please let me know. I'm here to assist you in any way I can."

She took a moment to let her words sink in, then added, "Our careers in Starfleet are full of ups and downs, but each step we take, no matter how difficult, shapes us into better officers and individuals. I'm confident that your resilience and dedication will continue to guide you towards success."

"I've been in worse positions before." Charlie shrugged. "But, I'll certainly keep it in mind that your door is always open."

Charlie glanced at the chronometer on the wall, having lost track of time during their conversation, and she noticed that it was getting particularly close to her youngest kids' bedtime, and as a result, she was coming close to breaking the promise she had made to them.

"In the meantime, unless there's anything else to discuss, I have a five year old and a three year old who are going to be wondering where mommy is." She said in the hopes that the counselor would get the message to wrap things up.

"Yes, time has flown hasn't it," smiled the Gorn. "I believe this session is over. Until next time."

She stood, nodding, and helped guide Charlie out.

[OFF]

Lieutenant JG Eradaar Ezazzan
Chief Counselor
USS Missouri

&

Lieutenant Charlotte E. "Charlie" Yeager
Assistant Chief Flight Control Officer
USS Missouri

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