Part of my story

Posted on Mon Mar 4th, 2024 @ 1:09am by Lieutenant Commander Savin & Senior Chief Petty Officer Mason Malone

Mission: Character Development
Location: Counselor's Office
Timeline: Following 'History'
788 words - 1.6 OF Standard Post Measure

Mason had remained behind in the mess, staring after Xavier as his friend left. His last words kept milling around in his mind and somehow, Mason felt lost. He didn't feel he had been disrespectful, how could he when, until a few minutes ago he hadn't remembered the incident at all?

Still, the words didn't sit well with him so he tried to recall the unfortunate recruit and square away a better memory of the young man who had only been his senior by a year, two at best. As he searched his memory, he came to the realization that he probably suppressed more than just this one moment in his career. Drawing a deep breath to gather his courage, he pushed himself to his feet and headed towards the one place on the ship that was probably long overdue a visit anyway

As he was invited inside upon arrival, Mason signed a quick greeting towards the hearing impaired counselor, knowing he'd have the man's undivided attention because of his handicap. "Thank you, for seeing me," he added, both in voice and in sign.

A brief hint of delight flashed across the counselor's face at the courtesy of being signed to rather than him having to request his patient continue to face him at all times. "You do not have to sign," he acknowledged, "but it is appreciated." Of course, he knew Mason, and knew from his file that the younger man was a linguist as well as an investigation officer and former marine. "What can I do for you today Mason?" He added as he invited the Human to take a seat.

The human seemed to shuffle his feet, his bearing changing. "I need your help in remembering," he finally said, "in doing someone's memory justice. I was talking to Xav- I mean, Lieutenant Leiko earlier and something happened." He paused. "Apparently, an old instructor is on board and him and I have never really seen eye to eye...and he..." again, Mason paused.

"Take your time," the counselor suggested patiently, sensing the Human's unease and embarrassment.

"He said I was a murderer. I'm not but... when I was just a recruit, years ago, someone did get killed as a result of something I did. I just never remembered until now. I still don't remember all of it, certainly not the kid who died. And the way Xav said it... he's right. I think anyway, I did dishonour him?"

"That is not my judgement to make," Savin answered, "what do you feel? Tell me what you remember if this particular recruit. Did he stand out in any way? Was he a quiet force? And what caused him to step out before he was killed?"


Mason shook his head as he pained his memories, trying to remember the unfortunate recruit. "Quiet sounds about right," he ventured, "I don't remember him ever saying more than two words. What I feel is... Lost, I suppose. Especially now, when I am responsible for something I barely remember, someone I barely remember."

"It will come to you, you should not try to force the memory, it will only make you suppress it even more. Why not research the incident and go from there, find out all you can from his file. Perhaps even speak with his family, though I would recommend being up front with them on why you want information. You can do him justice, by remembering. By never forgetting it happened, or why. And most importantly, demonstrate you learned from it, so that he did not die in vain "

"I'm not that reckless kid anymore," Mason shot back, a little fiercer than intended, "it took years to get rid of that reputation. I just need to remember him, because I don't. I remember an outline but got no face to put to the person. I'll take your advice and see what I can find out. I'm not sure I can bring myself to contact his family. Not yet."

The counselor gave a nod of approval. "Shall we meet again in a few days, to discuss your feelings on what you discovered?" While it was spoken like it was a suggestion, it really was not.

"Yeah that should be sufficient time," Mason answered.

"Perhaps also keep a personal log of your findings," Savin added, "it may stir a memory or a feeling." He pulled up his schedule on his PADD. "I will see you in three days, same time."

Mason just nodded, still not feeling any better. "I'll speak with Lieutenant Zade, I may have to juggle my shift around, but I'll be there. Thank you counselor, for your time." The younger man stood and quickly slid out of the office.