Post Number: 241 *Meeting with Lieutenant Eschenauer*

Posted on Mon Mar 10th, 2025 @ 3:46am by Captain Marius Pontmercy & Lieutenant Paul Eschenauer

955 words; about a 5 minute read

Mission: Secrets

On:

Marius stretched and stood from his desk, taking a moment to work the stiffness out of his limbs. He knew he technically needed to take more time and rest, but with everything going on he just didn't feel it was the right thing to do. He walked over to the replicator and ordered another coffee, and as he walked across the room back to his desk, tapped his comm badge.

"Lieutenant Eschenauer, please report to my ready room," he called.

Paul was in the middle of reviewing the latest flight rosters when his comm badge chirped. He tapped it without hesitation.

"On my way, sir," he replied crisply.

Setting the PADD aside, he stood up and smoothed out his uniform before making his way toward the ready room. He didn't know what the Captain needed, but given the tone, he suspected it wasn’t just a casual chat.

A moment later, he pressed the chime outside the ready room door and waited for permission to enter.

Marius looked up from the report he was reading and nodded to himself.

"Enter," he called

Paul stepped inside with his usual air of professionalism, his posture straight but not rigid. He took a moment to glance at the Captain, noting the telltale signs of fatigue in his expression.

"Lieutenant Eschenauer reporting as ordered, sir," Paul said, his tone respectful but carrying a hint of curiosity.

His sharp eyes flickered briefly to the steaming coffee on the Captain’s desk before returning to Marius, waiting for him to speak.

"At ease, Lieutenant. Please have a seat," Marius said, motioning for the man to take the chair opposite him.

Paul nodded once and took the offered seat, maintaining a composed and attentive posture. His hands rested neatly on his lap as he met the Captain’s gaze.

"How can I assist you, sir?" he asked, his tone formal and steady.

"I wanted to first check in with you and see how you're doing. I know that this hasn't been easy on any of us," the Captain said quietly.

Paul held the Captain’s gaze, his expression unwavering but respectful.

“I appreciate the concern, sir,” he replied evenly. “I’m managing. The crew has remained focused despite the challenges, and I intend to do the same.”

There was no hesitation in his voice, but there was an underlying acknowledgment of the strain they were all under. He knew Marius wouldn’t have called him in just for pleasantries, so he waited patiently for what was to come next.

"Well I wanted to let you know that your work here on the Obsidian has not gone unnoticed," Marius said after a few seconds. "Your quick-thinking, skill, and expertise led the Obsidian to safety, and for that I am most grateful." He paused, and then stood, walking around the desk to stand beside the younger man. "Because of that, I wanted to let you know that I am going to be giving you two awards, the Starfleet Flight Control Commendation Medal," he said as he withdrew the medal and slowly pinned it on the mans uniform, "and the Silver Star for Distinguished Service," he said, pinning the second medal on Paul's uniform, beside the first. "I will have you know that I have noted this in your record, and while Starfleet has taken a hit, this does not go unnoticed. I appreciate everything you have done."

Paul remained composed, though a flicker of surprise crossed his features as Marius stepped around the desk. He listened in silence, absorbing the Captain’s words with a quiet sense of pride and professionalism.

As the medals were pinned to his uniform, he straightened subtly, ensuring they sat properly. When Marius finished, Paul met his gaze and gave a firm nod.

“Thank you, sir,” he said, his voice steady. “It’s an honor to serve, and I will continue to do so to the best of my ability.”

He knew recognition was never the reason he did his job, but the acknowledgment meant something—especially coming from Marius. Still, his focus remained where it always had been: on the mission, the crew, and ensuring they could all do their jobs to the best of their ability.

"I know you will," Marius said with a small smile, and returned to his seat across from the man. "We have a long and dangerous road ahead, and we do not know what we will face. I'm glad to know that this crew is up to the challenge."

Paul gave a small nod, his expression remaining steady.

“This crew has proven itself time and time again,” he replied. “Whatever lies ahead, I have no doubt we’ll face it with the same dedication and resolve.”

He paused for a moment before adding, “I appreciate your confidence in me, sir. It means a great deal.”

Though his words were formal, there was sincerity behind them. Paul knew the road ahead wouldn’t be easy, but he also knew they were in capable hands.

"Absolutely, Lieutenant. If there is nothing else, I will let you get back to work," the Captain said with a small smile.

Paul gave a respectful nod.

"Thank you, sir," he said crisply. "I'll continue to do my best to uphold that confidence."

He adjusted his uniform slightly, ensuring the medals sat properly, then stood at attention for a brief moment before turning toward the door. Before exiting, he glanced back.

"If you ever need anything, sir, you know where to find me."

With that, he stepped out, his posture as composed as ever, ready to return to his duties.


Off:

Captain Marius G. Pontmercy
Commanding Officer
Starbase Obsidian

Lt Paul Eschenauer
Asst Chief Flight Control
Starbase Obsidian

 

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