The Coy Method - Crash Protocol VIII

Posted on Tue Sep 30th, 2025 @ 1:41pm by Commander Rosa Coy

669 words; about a 3 minute read

Mission: Character Development
Location: USS Sunfire

The Sunfire’s corridors hummed with the quiet energy of post-mission decompression. Cadets lingered near displays, consoles, or observation windows, their faces still streaked with the grime and adrenaline of the rogue planet storm. Rosa moved among them, silent, observing as they processed both victory and loss.

Jeyna Rel hovered over a tactical holo-display, fingers tracing escape vectors. “I never realized how fast instinct can overrule procedure,” she said, glancing at Threx. “I mean… I thought I was ready, but today proved otherwise.”

Threx smirked, leaning against the railing, antennae twitching. “Don’t pretend you didn’t flinch when Arven nearly took you out of the sky.” She nudged Jeyna lightly, a rare moment of camaraderie. “I admit it. I almost panicked myself.”

Arven, unusually subdued, scratched the back of his neck and looked at the docking bay beyond the windows. “I get it now… loyalty isn’t just about showing off or looking good. It costs something.” He offered a small, rueful grin to Sira, who was quietly observing him.

Sira tilted her head, soft smile in place. “And sometimes… it costs more than you expect.” Her gaze swept the room, catching each cadet in turn. “But we all survived because we trusted each other—and trusted ourselves.”

Veylin, ever composed, observed the interaction silently before joining the conversation. “Trust, tempered by calculation, ensures survival. Risk without analysis is folly, but analysis without courage is equally limiting.”

Dalkor, sitting on a bench with arms crossed, let out a low sigh. “Truth is messy,” he muttered. “Today proved it. And it doesn’t matter how bitter it is—it has to guide your decisions. Always.”

Rosa watched the exchange, her gaze softening slightly. Coy’s voice murmured in her mind, teasing: “They’re alive. They’ve learned. And they don’t even know the half of it.” She shook the thought off and turned her attention to the more practical business: assignment selection.

A holographic display flickered to life in the center of the room, showing projected assignments and mission roles. The cadets stepped forward in turn, considering where their skills and lessons could best be applied.

Jeyna’s eyes scanned the tactical overlays, then she tapped her choice decisively. “Tactical leadership. I want to learn how to manage a team when chaos hits.”

Threx leaned back, folding her arms. “Specialized operations. I work best when the stakes are high and the plan’s… flexible.” She glanced at Arven. “And maybe someone will finally appreciate precision over showmanship.”

Arven’s jaw tightened, then relaxed. “Rescue coordination. If I’m going to show loyalty, I’d better know I can keep people alive while doing it.” He caught Sira’s gaze, and she nodded in subtle approval.

Veylin moved with deliberate calm to the sensor array console. “Sensors, analytical operations. My strengths are in precision and observation. Today taught me the consequences of misreading data, and I intend to refine that skill.”

Dalkor stepped forward last. “Investigative missions. Somebody needs to uncover the truth behind the chaos, and I’m the best candidate for it.” His bitter tone softened slightly as he added, “Today made me understand why honesty matters—even when it’s ugly.”

Sira finally approached Rosa, eyes steady. “Advanced situational training,” she said quietly. “I need guidance… and I want to be prepared for what comes next.” Rosa inclined her head, silently approving.

The cadets shared a few brief, knowing smiles—no words were needed to convey the bond forged in fire. Their choices reflected growth, reflection, and an understanding of both themselves and each other.

Rosa allowed herself a small smile as they dispersed toward their new stations. Coy’s teasing was faint but undeniable: “Lesson learned, bonds forged… and the teacher remains unseen until needed most.”

In the quiet aftermath, Rosa reflected privately. The mission had ended, the lesson was delivered, and each cadet had grown in skill, courage, and judgment. But she knew—their true tests were only beginning.

END?

 

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