Chris woke feeling great—better than he normally did, if that was even possible. He went about his routine as he always did: a quick shave, followed by the familiar hum of the sonic shower. Soon after, he donned his uniform and checked his appearance one last time before leaving his quarters.

He headed toward the bridge, today’s assignment already clear in his mind. He would be manning the tactical station this shift.

Anyone who happened to notice him walking the corridor might have caught the subtle difference—his stride was a touch lighter, a quiet spring in his step that hinted at confidence and anticipation rather than nerves.

Ensign Chris Taylor
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USS Memorial