Handling the Helm

Akhil considered the question. "It is a difficult choice. There are many. Frankenstein is one of them," he replied thoughtfully. "Do you know the writer Erich Maria Remarque? He wrote a deeply personal novel about an ancient war - the First World War. All Quiet on the Western Front."

"I know the title," T'Pren admitted, finally giving up her flitting about to actually sit at a console for a time. "I've never read it. And I know the war, of course. A third of the male population of Europe died in it." She paused pensively and then added, gently, "It wasn't so very different from this one."

Akhil grunted. "I have hope that we, as a collective in the universe, have learned more since. Though my daily work tries that hope regularly."

T'Pren sighed, her console beeping at her in communication. For a while, she said nothing. And then, softly, she admitted, "I think you're a testament to our constant improvement as beings. As a civilization. Sometimes it only takes one person like you to change everything." BEEP BOOP, said the computer.

Akhil looked up from the controls. "You do me too much credit, but I thank you." He smiled. "The ship is in decent working order all around. She will be difficult to maneuver, however. That must be taken into account on the mission."

"She's just stubborn," T'Pren assured both Akhil and the ship, giving the Hippolyta a little pat. "With ships like this, you just have to let them think moving the way you wanted was their idea. Warships are a lot like people that way."

"I suppose so. You have a very poetic attitude towards vessels," Akhil replied approvingly.

"Do I?" T'Pren wondered with amusement, scrunching up her nose and craning back to look at Akhil. "I probably get it from my dad. He was always comparing ships to Terran marine animals." She grinned. "And then, when I got older, to different kinds of lovers."

Akhil's expression softened. He was about to reply when his comm badge chirped. "Lieutenant Commander Akhil, this DS15. Report to the bridge." Akhil stood, turning the controls over to Pren. "Good luck, Pren," he said, looking at her warmly, "Keep me apprised of all that happens."

T'Pren smiled warmly and gratefully at Akhil, though there was obviously still trepidation and concern about what was to come behind it all. "Thank you, Akhil. I will."