Returning to Josephine what is Josephine's

Posted on Thu Nov 3rd, 2022 @ 9:21am by Consul Josephine Carlyle-Cragen & Captain Gary Taylor

Mission: MISSION 0 - History Speaks
Location: Starfleet Medical
Timeline: Prior to Josie's return to the Elysium
562 words - 1.1 OF Standard Post Measure

Gary stood outside the Starfleet Medical Complex. He was on his way to see Josephine as he had a promise to keep. He made his way to base housing where Josephine was staying temporarily until she was cleared by the counselors here before she could return to the Elysium. In that regard, he something, make that four somethings that would make Josephine's stay here less stressful. He walked for a bit past the bland monotony of base housing until he reached Josie's unit. He stopped, looked down at himself and was satisfied everything was in order with his appearance.

He pressed the door chime and waited for Josie to reply.

Josie came to the door dressed in civilian clothes. She blinked. "Captain Taylor?"

"Hi Josie, I hope I'm not intruding, and I apologize for not letting you know I was coming but I wanted this to be a surprise. I have four very excited companions of yours, who have missed you very much and wanted to see you again."

She raised an eyebrow. "Four?" she asked her mind not catching up.

Gary grinned broadly, he turned and called, "Okay guys and girls come say hello!' From around the corner four King Charles spaniels came barreling around the corner, barking and yipping with joy at seeing Josephine. jumping up on her legs to be petted and loved. "Remember them Josie?"

She sank to the ground and was instantly jumped on as she tried to hug and pet them all at once. She didn't speak just nodded and ran her hands through their fur.

Gary stood to one side and let Josie and the dogs have their happy reunion. She didn't need to speak her reaction spoke volumes. As the dogs couldn't get enough of her nor Josie enough of them. He was grinning like a fool at the pure joy both the dogs and Josie showed. It made him feel good.


Eventually she raised her head "Thank you Captain" She said brightly.

"Josie, you are more than welcome." He looked at the dogs falling over themselves to be petted and loved. "Seems this was good for all the parties involved."

"yes." she said softly. "I bet my parents are happy for the peace and quiet" She smiled faintly.

Gary nodded, "The important thing is that you and they are reunited and from what I see. It was a must needed reunion."

She nodded "yes. I missed them." Slowly she got to her feet. "But they will hate being back on the ship" they enjoyed earth too much."

"Josie, they have the holodeck and the arboretum. even a spare cargo bay can be used for them to get out and burn off some excess energy." Gary pointed out.

"i know" She said softly. "I guess I always thought of them being more stable on Earth, than on a starship"

"Animals and especially dogs are incredibly adaptable to their surroundings. I think you will be surprised how well they adapt and Josie, to be honest you need them, and they need you."

"I will think on it Captain" She said honestly. "Starships are not always safe."

"As you wish Josie just this. Life as you can surely relate isn't safe. Danger is around every corner." Gary observed.

"I know" she replied with a small smile.

"Yes, I know you do Josie." Gary answered simply.