Compiled by Calvin Capps
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Mission: Errand of Mercy
Day: 3
Stardate: 2407.01.19
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(USS Paladin, Officers Mess, CO Captain Eva Straton, 1902)
(USS Paladin - Officers Mess - FO Lt Cmdr Calvin Capps - 1903)
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(USS Paladin, Officers Mess, CO Captain Eva Straton, 1902)

 "Even though it may hurt I would rather stand beside a friend in
war time and not just another officer," Lt. Commander Capps finished and
then fell silent and closed his eyes.  

    Eva was silent for a few moments as she regarded the Commander. She
didn't have to be an empath to know she'd hit a nerve with her question,
but she appreciated the honest answer.  

    "Then there is still hope for you," She said seriously, "I've met
far too many Star Fleet officers that have lost that capacity.  They're so
scared by war and death that they've lost the ability to develop any
emotional connections what-so-ever with the officers they serve with.  Lord
knows I've seen more than my fair share of war and death; two universes
worth.  I've ordered far too many good men and women, loyal Star Fleet
officers and enlisted, to their deaths." A mixture of pain and grief
flashed across her face briefly as she fought to keep her own emotions
under control.  "I'll probably have to do it again tomorrow, or maybe the
day after, in either case it will be too soon."

    She feel silent as the server approached with their food and set
their plates down in front of them along with their drinks before leaving
them alone again.  Eva took a sip of her Vulcan spiced tea before taking a
bite of her salad thinking quietly while she chewed.

    "War is such a terrible dinner topic," She said, shaking her head.
"Lets change the subject shall we?  Pick a subject."  She pointed at Capps
with her fork before taking another bite of her salad.

(posted by Wes)
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(USS Paladin - Officers Mess - FO Lt Cmdr Calvin Capps - 1903)

"Lets change the subject shall we?  Pick a subject."  She pointed at Capps with her fork before 
taking another bite of her salad.

Calvin felt better. He was glad that he had opened up to his commanding officer. He looked across 
the table at Captain Straton as she pointed at him. "Do you know the name Ensign Frie?"

(reply Straton)

"Tomorrow he is playing a few select piano scores in the auditorium. Have you ever heard him play 
before?"

(reply Straton)

"I've never heard any one play as close to the originals as him. He really takes his music seriously. 
Outstanding instrument player in my book."

(reply Straton)

"I also heard he plays request. He is like a music database. Do you have any favorites?"

(posted by Calvin)
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Hope you enjoyed!