Posted by Captain Dira Myqian (Commanding Officer) in Side-sim: Time well spent?

Posted by Lieutenant Achilleas Petrakos (Chief Science Officer) in Side-sim: Time well spent?

Posted by Captain Dira Myqian (Commanding Officer) in Side-sim: Time well spent?

(snip)

Achilleas leaned forward slightly, genuinely intrigued by the various possibilities Dira presented for her nickname. He enjoyed the playful exploration of her middle name, seeing the different ways it could be pronounced and adapted.

“Sala, Asa, Aza, or Aszala,” he repeated, testing out each variation on his lips. “They all have a certain charm to them. I think the pronunciation with the Haliian accent, Aszala, adds a unique touch and gives it a delightful sound. It captures the essence of your cultural heritage.”

“Hmmmmm,” she said again. “That is very true. Things to mull over. But I don’t think I’d mind a select few using my middle name.”

Achilleas smiled, appreciating the relaxed atmosphere that allowed for such open and personal conversation. “I feel honored that you’ve shared this with me. It’s moments like these that help build connections and friendships. I hope our camaraderie continues to grow, Captain.”

He felt a warmth in his heart, glad to have found a common ground and a shared sense of openness with his commanding officer.

CSO Petrakos

A mischievous gleam appeared in her black eyes. “Lias…” she said, testing out the nickname. “We’re off duty and drinking, and if I recall correctly, the last time we spent time socially I crashed your date. I think you can at least call me Dira.”

Captain Myqian, CO

Achilleas couldn’t help but chuckle at Dira’s mischievous remark. Her playfulness and the glimmer in her eyes were contagious, and he found himself relaxing further in her company.

“You make a compelling point, Dira,” he replied, a hint of amusement in his voice. “In the spirit of our off-duty camaraderie, I suppose it’s only fair that we shed some of the formalities. Very well, Dira it is.”

CSO Petrakos

“Good!” She was exceptionally professional and always had been, but there were other sides to Dira that she didn’t always get a chance to show, especially on the Ogawa. A part of it she had explained to Sinclair, but there was another side to it that she hadn’t been able to fully be open about. “You know, I have found it hard on the Ogawa sometimes. I’m really not so formal all the time. I like to let loose and on previous assignments I considered myself very social. It’s been strange here. Maybe it’s the ship itself, maybe it’s the command uniform, but I don’t feel like I get to be myself very often. I’m a lot more fun than I seem!” she said with a laugh.

Captain Myqian, CO

“I can imagine it must be challenging to balance the formalities of command with the desire to express your true self,” Achilleas replied, his voice carrying a compassionate tone. “The ship’s environment and the expectations that come with our roles can sometimes create barriers to letting loose and embracing our individuality.”

He leaned in slightly, his eyes reflecting understanding. “But Dira, I have no doubt that you are a lot more fun than you may seem on the surface. I believe there is a vibrant, multifaceted person beneath that command uniform.”

Achilleas paused for a moment before adding, “If ever you feel the need to let loose or have a break from the formalities, know that you can count on me as a friend and confidant. Sometimes, all it takes is a trusted companion to share those moments of genuine self-expression.”

CSO Petrakos