Star Trek: Starbase 777 - lt-copia﹢lt-maloor

Copia walked inside before she slipped off her boots and set her phaser onto the side table next to her door. She'd never be without her phaser - not like this. Copia even looked at herself in the mirror - and noticed the flower crown that Rilek had made for her, that she had preserved painstakingly for herself. Copia didn't feel like she deserved to wear that crown anymore. Like she was too much of a mess-up to even be worthy of wearing it. That it would be a disgrace to Rilek if she did. Carefully, Copia took the flower out of her hair, before setting it down on the table in front of her mirror. Copia managed to pull her chair out from her dining table and sit down in it, before sitting back as much as she could against the backrest. "Computer," Copia began. "Begin personal log." [D] Copia would recite her personal log to the computer. If she could cry right now... She would. Copia, in a rare occurrence, was sadder than she had ever been. And she was the cause.

[D] The moment that Yoro'clis had received the message that Copia was alright he knew that he needed to check on them. It was his fault that they had taken damage after all, and therefore his job to ensure that they were all right. He had made his way from his own quarters through the hallways and turbolifts until eventually the outside of the Lieutenant's quarters. The Elder knew that the android was currently very emotional and there was a chance that they would not want to talk to him. With that in mind also needed to be cautious of what he would say. Yoro'clis knew exactly what he would say to a subordinate Jem'Hadar in such a moment, but had no idea what he could do for someone like Copia. He figured that it was best to just try and do what was best in the moment and see what happened. He pressed a button on Copia's door to activate the chime. He then just waited for a response.

The moment Copia heard a door chime, she immediately felt some hope return in her mind. Not a ton, but some. For a moment, she was worried it would be Mo or Sadhbh. Did they see what happened in the holodeck? Were they there to comfort her? To penalize her, to kick her out? Copia at this point, merely accepted her fate, although she did not know who would truly be waiting outside the door. "Please, come in," she would say in a voice that was barely audible to anyone standing outside.

Yoro'clis walked into the room and then stopped, unsure about exactly what to do in a situation such as this. He just stood near the doorway and tried to relax. The Elder was glad to see that Copia appeared to be completely healthy and operational. He did not know what the engineer had done or what had broken but it appeared that everything was now back to how it had been. Copia was fine. He still had not decided what to do yet however. Yoro'clis had no experience in this sort of thing and did not know what he needed to do. He figured that it was best to start with formalities and see if Copia clearly wanted or needed something. "Hello there again Lieutenant Copia."

Copia noticed that it was the Elder who was at her door - an extremely kind gesture of him! For all Copia knew, he could have just let her go, not really caring about her well-being and told her to grow up - but he didn't. He took the time and the energy to come over to her quarters. And there had to be another reason. Copia found a little bit more energy once more when Yoro'clis had presented himself, although simply out of pure heartbreak Copia didn't stand up and at attention as fast as she normally would. Although, she did feel slightly better that she wasn't alone. She did feel slightly better that she would have Yoro'clis as a trusted senior officer at this moment. "Sir," Copia began, keeping her words slow, so that she didn't rush. "I owe you an explanation as to what happened. According to Lieutenant Commander Alizati tr'Kota, chief engineer, the emotion chip positioned within the sensory cortex inside my head had malfunctioned and overloaded. Given its location in my head, it is safe to assume its overload caused a partial fry of my motherboard, causing a chain reaction through the wiring in my skeletal mainframe and rendering my system inert. I have been outfitted with a new emotion chip, motherboard and wiring accordingly." And with a breath, Copia continued. "Yet, that is not the relevant explanation. I... have never had blood on my hands. Not alone, where my actions and my actions only determine the outcome of if someone lives or dies. Regardless of if it was in real life or simulated, the battle in holodeck one has very real and very serious implications for my ability to command in real life, implications that must be addressed and disciplined. This is much different than the Kobayashi Maru in that I was able to prepare for that test itself, understanding its purpose afterwards. Given this event's spontaneous nature, combined with the fact I alone commanded the Federation fleet, and my emotion chip... I simply crashed."

Yoro'clis did not understand the engineering explanation, but he understood the second part. Copia simply did not have any battle experience and did not know how to make the hard decisions that were made every day during war. In a peacetime Federation there likely had simply not been any exposure to this sort of thing. The Elder had lost this sort of naivety very quickly in the Dominion. Things were different here however, for better or for worse. He knew that humans and their equivalents were likely just not as resilient to battle and its effects as the engineered Jem'Hadar. "I see." The Elder debated what to do next, not sure what would help and what would just crash the android again. Jem'Hadar did not struggle with the sort of trauma that Copia was dealing with so he was not sure how it was treated. He did not know if there was anything that he could do at the current moment other than recommend that the android spoke to one of the station's psychologists. He doubted that takes of his own battles or Jem’Hadar proverbs would be very effective here. Still, he wanted to try. He decided to just ask Copia what they wanted at the comment. Starfleet was all about independence and initiative, so he figured that it was best to follow such tenants. They were not as powerful as the will of the Founders but still were important and relevant here. “So what do you need right now Lieutenant? Time alone, a veteran’s advice, some stories of my own battles, or something else? Only you know what you can handle or need right now, so I leave it up to you.” The Jem’Hadar knew that it would likely only be harmful for him to go back into the Jem’Hadar mode. For one of his brothers he could have just spoken about the Founders or about honor, but that didn’t apply here. Yoro’clis was clueless so he just hoped that Copia would be able to make that decision for him.

Copia respected Yoro'clis deeply for asking her how he could best support her in that moment. He certainly wasn't like that during battle - and justifiably so - but this side of him was much calmer, and genuinely concerned for her health and well being. At this moment, Copia didn't feel any sort of buildup in her emotion chip or her sensory cortex, meaning that she could handle this much more smoothly than before. A crash certainly wasn't imminent this time. That old emotion chip wasn't changed for 33 years. "In truth, sir, the best resources I have to mend myself emotionally are the ship's counsellors," Copia began. "However... As you offered veterans' advice and stories of your own battles, perhaps those would provide context. I am unfamiliar with the Jem'Hadar and their culture on battle in specifics. Therefore, I am eager to learn to differentiate those from Starfleet, so I may better compare the two in my mind." Then, Copia had an idea. Perhaps this would help Yoro'clis even more. "Computer... Relay personal log, Stardate 90871.21, please." Copia's personal log she just recorded played back through the computer in the room. Hopefully it would give more context to Yoro'clis on how she was feeling, and how to better assist in helping her rethink battle strategies, and the act of command as a whole.

Yoro'clis listened to the log, somewhat surprised by what he was hearing. He knew that the battle was difficult for Copia but did not realize exactly how much the failure had harmed them. Clearly it had literally broken them however, so perhaps that was not too surprising. In the end it was clear that Copia needed help and that was all that mattered. He decided that it was best not to compare the Federation and Dominion. The two were completely different and the ways of the Dominion would not be effective or even make sense to Copia. Yoro'clis was no politician but he understood that. "The Dominion is very different. Jem'Hadar go into battle without fear of death as all sacrifice in the name of the Founders is worthwhile. It is best we do not focus on that though." The Elder still was concerned about telling his stories however. Copia was in no state to learn about massacres and how a commander's mistake could end in tragedy. He would have to keep things high level and only speak of smaller peacetime mission. It was likely that Copia would break again if he tried to explain the hard decisions made during wars. "But still I would be more than glad to do give my advice, although my experiences as a solider are likely going to be somewhat concerning to you. War is very complicated, messy, and bloody. Would you like my honest thoughts on such things or should I, what is the human term, sugarcoat things?"

Copia listened as Yoro'clis outlined the Jem'Hadar attitude towards battle and sacrifice. She wasn't necessarily surprised, but it confirmed her suspicion that Yoro'clis had quite a different approach to it mentally than she did. Not a bad thing, of course - just different. "Well, sir, in truth," Copia began, answering his question. "If I am to benefit the best I can, and given that others may not sugarcoat the details like you are offering, which I appreciate, I feel it would be best for my development for you to be honest with me, if you please."

Yoro'clis nodded silently, thinking about how to best explain such abstract ideas such as sacrifice to an android. While Copia expressed emotion he assumed that they still acted like a calculator on the inside. He would do his best to explain it in a mathematical way, but then this was simply not what Yoro'clis was used to. "Well then I think that it is important that you understand the importance of losses if you wish to be a leader. Every single mission that you lead or order there will be a risk of injuries or death to all involved. You know that and so do all who report to you." The Elder paused for a moment to let Copia try to understand that before continuing. "I have lost many soldiers under my command, although it is best I do not go in to that. All that matters is that you understand that as a commander your goal is to not make it so that there are no deaths but instead limit casualties. You will never be able to make sure there are no casualties."

CW: death, depression, negative thoughts Copia did indeed wince at hearing that there would have to be some element of loss in her duties, if she were to ever assume command. Although, she felt the need to reassure her reaction was not a malfunction. "Given my emotion chip reads 62.5 degrees Fahrenheit I believe I will be able to handle this, although difficult." Copia listened carefully, taking in each of the Elder's words. She normally would take what anyone above her said as law - although this? Just didn't feel right. It still didn't quite compute. "Indeed. I am risking my own and others' lives in every single mission. Just as the... captain is doing so for ours." She began to make connections - it was starting to compute! "We... assume that there must be an element of risk for every mission," Copia said as she realized more and more to this. "That was taught upon us from day one. I see where my emotion chip may have malfunctioned - as I myself, while I have been on and even organized away missions, I was not the one ordering the away mission or even in command. So I must have... not associated this risk with what I did." Then, Copia heard Yoro'clis say his second bout of wisdom, and right away, she went back to her spirit feeling down and sad. Instead of saying her words fast, she slowed down, and she was quite forlorn about this realization. "What if it was my creator who was commandeering that vessel that was destroyed? I would have... never forgiven myself. I sense that Admiral Ross has a large number of subordinates who look to him for guidance and instruction, just as my creator was for me. His loss would devastate thousands, even tens of thousands of officers... and the blood would be on my hands. How can anyone -- well... how can any android... live with that guilt?" (edited)

CW: death Yoro'clis silently listened without showing any strong emotions. He was more than familiar with all of the concepts and issues being discussed and was no longer truly concerned by such things. Jem'Hadar were raised and trained to not fear battle or the consequences of it. Things were far simpler in the Dominion. The Elder could tell that some things were starting to make sense to Copia but that other things were not. He did not exactly understand what however. Yoro'clis could barely understand the organic Starfleet officers, let alone the androids. By not it appeared that he just needed to answer any other questions and let Copia process his answers as they would. He just needed to avoid saying anything too exstreme. He paused for a moment, unsure of how to answer the question in a way that made sense. Yoro'clis was trying to help Copia through a crisis that he never had to deal with. He also needed to think like a computer, which was difficult to say the least. No matter what he said it could have any of many different effects. "You live with it because those deaths were for something greater. Hundreds dead, thousands affected, and billions of lives saved or improved. For every fallen solider there are many many more civilians saved. You are the android, run the numbers." The issue was that it never fully went away. Yoro'clis was a veteran solider and largely jaded to this sort of thing, but then he still felt the loss of every single person under his command. A death in the service of the Founders was more than worth it, but it still meant something to loose a brother on the battlefield. It was likely far worse for someone like Copia without the mindset, religion, or experience. The Elder debated telling the Lieutenant that for a moment, but decided to let them learn that lesson themselves or at least ask the question themselves. Yoro'clis did not want to break them again.

CW: death Copia's mind still reeled at all of this - other than the fact she was just repaired, she was surprised how she was able to function without breaking or crashing again. Without saying a word, Copia thought about each of Yoro'clis' words, letting them sink in - her eyes twitched back and forth, as she indeed found ways to further compute this quite complex subject - it was working! Copia considered each of the valiant officers that came before her, in multiple generations prior to her joining Starfleet, or even her being created. Archer. Pike. Kirk. Spock. Picard. Riker. ...Data. And then, she realized that each one of those captains indeed would have had to endure something like this, even regularly. And yet, they were still revered as heroes, remembered for their service and leadership in times of turmoil. Copia indeed ran the numbers in her head - hundreds dead. Thousands affected. Billions of lives saved or improved. The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few. While it certainly began to compute more for Copia, the guilt still rattled her to her core. And yet... Copia found one way to consider it all differently. A way to reframe it. "I live with it... because they would have wanted me to... because they risked their lives... for others. Including mine. They... did their duty. They--" Copia's eyes widened. A bit of her smile returned. "They'd want me to keep going."

CW: Death Yoro'clis smiled slightly and nodded, seeing that Copia seemed to understand what he had been saying. He seemed to be proud, although his reptillian face did not make his expressions as obvious. It appeared that he had somehow made the idea of sacrifice understandable to a computer. At first he was not sure whether or not the machine would be able to calculate such abstract things but they clearly could. He was still amazed at what the android could do. While the Elder had not gone through the Starfleet academy he still assumed that they had lessons about battle and the fact that one could not always win. He had heard something about some sort of test, but did not know anything specific about that. In the end all that mattered was that Copia understood the lesson now. Yoro'clis knew that Copia was a mission specialist, a planner operations. They served at a desk and not the front lines. Still they would not have made a very good Vorta. There would likely be casualties on the missions that they ordered however, so the lesson was still just as important. Every officer, whether they were security or botany, needed to learn what leading truly meant in the worst of situations. "Yes. Just because a single solider or officer dies the fight and the cause is not over. We are all one part in something far bigger and cannot let anything else got in the way of that. Just keep fighting, for them and for others." The Elder was not sure what else Copia needed, if anything. He waited for them to ask for something else or show a want for something. While this issue seemed to have been dealt with it was possible that Copia had more questions or something else on their equivilant to a mind.

Copia's mind finally found a way to begin to settle, even though it still was reeling, she could finally begin to make sense of it all as each detail was gradually computing within her head and she was able to let it process, slowly, but surely. The Jem'Hadar had done it! He successfully helped Copia to understand and compute such a complex phenomenon as this. Yet, her journey was far from over. Copia was still struggling with the fact that her emotions could be easily misconstrued and thus turn into much stronger versions of themselves if not treated correctly and quickly. There was something she did want to ask Yoro'clis. "Sir," Copia began. "Will you... Please perform a favor for me? Will you please... Walk with me to the counselling offices? I'd... Like to meet with one of the counsellors to further diagnose my condition and better myself."

The Elder was glad to see that Copia now appeared to be healthy and back to normal. He knew that they were an android and were only simulation emotions, but was still somewhat surprised how quickly the Lieutenant had gone back to their usual happy self. It seemed like Copia needed one last little favor, and considering everything that had happened Yoro'clis saw no reason to deny it. "Of course." Yoro'clis tried to remember what counselling was, but then he did not know. Perhaps it was career counseling, where Copia worked? He realized that it would be best to just ask and see if he was right. "Counselling, so we are going to starbase command? I am still learning where everything in the station is."

Copia smiled having seen Yoro'clis mistake the career counselling offices for the mental health counselling offices. "Negative, sir, it's the mental health counselling offices. I... Feel my journey is not yet complete. In fact, I feel it has just begun." Copia turned her head. "Computer. What are the locations of the mental health counselling offices?" [D] The computer would respond that the counselling offices were in the Medical Bay. "Sir," Copia turned back to Yoro'clis. "I believe it would suit me well to consult another higher ranking officer in regard to my career. Perhaps it would be beneficial for me to ask Captain Mo what it is like for him to make difficult decisions such as this. I am not saying your advice did not help - it certainly did, and I thank you endlessly for it. I do hope you know what I am trying to say." Copia was desperately trying to hold herself together emotionally. Thankfully, it was working - and no sign of her emotion chip overheating, overloading or malfunctioning.

Yoro'clis was not familiar with the term "mental health," but then he realized that now was not the best time to ask. Copia was dealing with too much to explain things such as that. He decided to just bring them to the medical bay and let them move on from there. When it came to the comment on needing more advice, the Elder thought that it was a good idea. He did not understand the motivations and actions of most Starfleet officers. Copia needed to talk to someone who could understand their own emotions and struggled. Yoro'clis' zealotry and jadedness made that impossible. "I think that makes sense. I may be a veteran solider with many tales, but I am also still a Jem'Hadar of the Dominion. An officer within Starfleet can help you with that far more than I can." Yoro'clis just wanted the Lieutenant to learn from their actions and then become a better solider. Their health was the priority and Copia could do whatever else was needed to improve themselves. "Still, it is good to hear that my advice has helped you." He stood up, waiting for Copia to do the same. "So, shall we start our walk to the doctors?"

Copia felt a sense of relief wash over her, knowing that Yoro'clis was in her corner, and willing to do whatever it took to ensure her safety. That really meant a lot to her - the shift in his demeanors brought a sense of comfort in her, one that she didn't have before. "Aye, sir," Copia said, standing up as well. "Let us begin." The door opened, to which Copia walked out, and kept it open for Yoro'clis to walk through.

The door opened, what seemed to Copia like it was much slower - or much faster, she couldn't quite tell, she was all in her own head right now - and Copia stepped inside. The door closed behind her, but she didn't move for a long moment. It was all so much... so much to think about, so much to consider, so much to process... it was getting into Copia's head... Copia sat down her bed, before rolling onto it and laying on it, facing the ceiling. Her gold eyes, instead of having a sense of hope and happiness in them, seemed to be washed over by despair and confusion. She was lost... this mission had really done something to her. Something she'd never experienced before. Perhaps talking about it would help. Maybe... aloud? Even if it was to herself? "Computer. Begin personal log." [D] Copia would record her personal log to the computer before ending it. It indeed was very helpful to put her thoughts onto the metaphorical paper. She was able to hear her thoughts and then listen as she was speaking. It helped reframe what she was thinking. The advice from Yoro'clis and Alin were absolutely priceless for helping her to think in healthier and more sustainable ways. Copia thought to herself - maybe taking a nap would help. She didn't necessarily need to nap or sleep - but she decided to do it anyway. Setting an auto-startup for forty-five minutes from then, Copia closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep... x_divider

02:34

Copia woke up indeed forty-five minutes later, having taken a nap that certainly allowed her inner workings to cool down and recover from the constant use. Not that they actually heated up in reality - but still. Copia got an idea... she turned to the replicator. "Computer... what are some common methods of self care that I am able to pursue in my quarters?" [D] The computer would respond with several self care options and stress toys. "Computer, please replicate those objects. I would like to try." The replicator produced a stress ball, a fidget cube, and a Rubik's cube. Copia took them from the replicator - she squeezed the stress ball, noticing how firm it was and how much it resisted her squeezing, After releasing her grip, she noticed how much energy she had used to squeeze the stress ball, and she immediately was feeling a little better. Copia took the fidget cube and examined it, noticing how many different ways to interact with it, such as the spinning wheels on the side, the metal ball bearing inside, the joystick. It was so satisfying! She didn't want to put it down but moved onto the Rubik's cube. Of course, given Copia's android nature, she solved the Rubik's cube in a matter of minutes. It still provided a fun challenge for her, though! Copia, feeling a lot calmer, and able to understand and process what she was feeling, considered how she was able to do this all on her own from her curiosity on self care. She indeed was happier given she was prioritizing how she was feeling and how it could affect others. She might be okay after all. She might be able to forgive herself after the away mission. Copia put the stress toys onto her desk before leaving her quarters and heading out to perform her duties for the day. (edited)

CW: Medical, panic attack Copia, having gained an honestly very unusual sense of confidence in herself, entered into her quarters and just basked in her glory. She had done it! She finally confronted her nemesis. And she got a reaction out of her! How sweet was this?! How-- how... how... wait. No... something wasn't right. Copia could hear the words replaying back into her mind. "You're the one that talked to much... swatted... stupid... empty head... disregard for Starfleet law..." And all of a sudden, her smile drooped downwards again. "N-no! No..." Copia sat down on her bed, staring out towards the door. But in her mind's eyes, all she could see and hear was that encounter with Tewari. The belittling insults that the Undine had given Copia had just started to sink in. What had happened to Copia?! Why was she so quick to anger? Was it pent-up emotion from the past mission? Was it truly just Tewari's evil nature as a leader of literal murderers? Or was it truly Copia's fault? Did she actually talk too much? Was she actually that stupid? Her head was quite literally empty... that made her stupid, didn't it? Copia's eyes widened. If Tewari wasn't hiding anything anymore, surely she was telling the truth. And the truth hurt... Copia's mind tried to fight it. She had to! She remembered what Yoro'clis told her, what Alin had counselled her on, the advice Mo gave her... and yet, Tewari's words were piercing her soul in all the right -- or rather, wrong -- places. [D] In a state of despair, Copia's body trembled. She pulled out her PADD to send a message to the only one she knew she'd be able to get ahold of quickly. She didn't know where Yoro'clis was, and she'd have to schedule a formal appointment with Alin, and Mo was likely too busy. No... this one was for Vara. Copia could barely hit send before she strode over to her table and chair, and collapsed onto it, her body still trembling. Hope left Copia's eyes once more. "NOOOOOOOOOOOO!" (edited)

There was a quick series of knocks on the doors, before a chime rang out. “Copia, can I come in hon?”

Copia's head turned to the side, her face contorted in despair. She finally had a little bit of hope again. In her head tumbled a few different outcomes that she imagined - Vara ignoring the message. Vara being busy. Vara having another reason not to be there. But none of those reflected reality. Vara was here now - and Copia was so thankful. "Please... Come in..." Her voice was choked up beyond belief. She set her head back down in her arms, but felt a little relief enter into her head.

Vara opened the door as she stepped into the room and took a breath as she looked at Copia. “Hey there Copia, how’s my fave officer?” She said as she slowly stepped towards her and moved to lean on a wall. “May I hug you?” She asked with a sad little smirk on her face. “It’s okay if you don’t wanna be touched right now.”

Copia's head slowly craned up from her arms, and she looked up at Vara... Not even saying a word, Copia's eyes were practically screaming that she wasn't okay. That something was up. Copia didn't know if Vara had empathetic powers like Betazoids, or if she could read Copia like that as she was, but Copia's eyes were like the eyes of a terrified child, unable to shake the fear. Copia held out her arms for a hug - in fact a hug was exactly the thing she needed right now. As she did, her body continued visibly trembling.

Vara nodded as she moved forward and wrapped the android in a gentle hug as she kneeled in front of the chair that Copia was sitting on. “Now, I won’t ask what happened or why you’re having a bad time. I will ask what you need me to do?” She said with a small comforting smile.

The hug immediately registered in Copia's mind as a phenomenon that she shouldn't be afraid of. Something that was meant to soothe her. Something that she could trust. And it was from Vara - someone who understood her. Someone who could help her. And someone who she could trust. With that, Copia's body trembled less and less. "In fact, for me to know what to ask if you could please do, it may be best to explain what happened," Copia said. "So you receive the full picture. I... Had not been down to the constabulary deck before. So I was rather surprised when I accidentally happened upon the long term brig. I saw her... And I became a... A different person entirely... I was sadistic... Unrelenting... Unforgiving... She's still alive and she's contained... But I... Gave her no mercy... With my words..." Copia looked into Vara's eyes. "Am I a bad person, Vara? What she said about me... It has to be the truth. There's no other explanation... I was the reason she started the countdown... I was the reason the fight broke out... All of this is my fault... She called me stupid. Empty headed. I talked too much and I got...swatted... She's gotten into my head..." (edited)

Vara’s hand grew into a fist as she heard tell of the shapeshifter they had in the brig speaking that way to Copia, she let go of the hug a she stood up and moved to lean against the wall again. “What? No you are not Copia, you are smart and kind and any other adjective like that I can think of!” She said as she moved to sit next to Copia. “And listening to people like that only makes you upset. She’s a trickster in flesh that isn’t her own, and who’s probably mad that we kicked her butt five ways to Sunday.” Vara sighed as she looked at Copia. “You are a good person, one of the best. No matter how you spoke to her, or how you treated her you are a good person. You are better then likes of me and her could ever hope to be, okay?” She said as she looked at herwith a deep breath. “It’s the furthest thing from your fault.”

Copia's frightened eyes watched as Vara spoke, and when Vara talked it was much more difficult for her words to stick given they were such a stark contrast to what Tewari had told her. How could it be so?? How could she not be responsible? "I'm better than her...?" Copia said. "And I'm better than you...? No... That can't be right. You saved me back there... You're saving me now... I'm certainly not better than you... Not after all this..." But then Copia replayed more of what Vara told her in her mind. "Listening to her only... Makes me more upset...? She's... Trying to get into my head on purpose?" Copia wasn't sure if she was getting what Vara was saying. But it was making sense. "She'd... Do that. She'd try and make me think things that weren't true, wouldn't she? She'd try and get into my head." Copia's eyes looked into Vara's, hope slightly returning. "You think... I'm a good person?" And her mouth started to curl upwards forming a very slight smile. Vara's words were starting to stick! "Should I... Report myself... For disciplinary action?" Copia asked. Even she looked to the Ensign for advice. (edited)

“Copia, babe, I’m a thief.” She deadpanned. “I know I wear the uniform and all that now, but being a career criminal is hard to lose you know? I have rules to not take lives and shit, but beyond that I’ve stolen and I will steal again. You are moral and kind, something I can literally never hope to be. Especially the kind part, I’d lose my charming personality.” She may have ended the mini rant about herself with a joke, but it was clear she believed it. She took a long breath as she looked at the lieutenant. “As for turning yourself in for disciplinary action? I’m sorry to say but you are asking the worst person on the station for that advice. I’d say don’t, but uh, not the best person to ask ya know? On the bright side, maybe you could be cellmates with Miss Flesh Stealer and make sure she can’t sleep or whatever.” Vara took a breath as she rolled her shoulders. “Beyond that? Don’t let her get to you again. She’s very clearly not a smart person. I mean, you’re a shapeshifter and you take over some random starship? Come on, get some monetary value with that!”

Copia's smile returned slightly, although it was rattled with despair. She looked at Vara like she was her fairy godmother. Everything that Vara said immediately caught and retained Copia's attention. If she were to listen to anyone in this moment, it would be Vara. "The most charming thief I've ever known. No other thief is as charming as you. And... you're my best friend," Copia said. She found it easier to think and even function now that Vara was here. "I... Didn't commit a crime," Copia realized as Vara said that she and Tewari could be cellmates. "I... Didn't actually break any laws. I was... Upset..." As Copia spoke she was making realizations about her way of thinking. "Correct me if I'm wrong.. but you think she's manipulating me? Using my own emotions against me in hopes of getting me in trouble?"

Vara blinked lightly as she looked at the android. “Well I pride myself on being quite charming for work, so you know, glad to have solid reviews.” She said with a huff as she leaned against the wall with a breath. “Meh, who knows. I don’t honestly believe she would have some grand plan with you. Just would be a waste of time honestly. If she’s gonna try and break out then she’d be doing a lot more than making you upset you know? Breaking out of prison is way more of a thing, lot more time and effort than making a single officer upset.”

The android trembled as she sat next to Vara, her eyes staring out forward into nowhere, her focus not on anyone or anything in particular. While she was extremely afraid of what would happen to her, Copia felt safe in Vara's presence. Copia looked up at Vara once again with frightened eyes, she didn't know what would happen if she ever had to be in this situation again. Only once had Copia gone through such intense emotional turmoil before. Meanwhile, her emotion chip was firing on all cylinders... perhaps running a little too well. "That is... true. She... seemed confused by my confronting her out of the blue. She... forgot who I was until I reminded her. Perhaps it's... best to keep it that way." Copia's mind couldn't help but think, however... so many officers suffered because of the Undine. How would the Undine be punished for the crimes?! They couldn't just get away with all this-- but then Copia surmised that perhaps it wasn't her doing. Someone else would be taking care of the Undine after being convicted. Her job in this mission was over. It was no longer her fight. And yet... "I feel like I could have done so much more to protect the others. To ensure justice."

Little did both Copia and Vara know that the Rescue™️ would prove a redemption among the rest. The two talked for a bit more and Copia thanked Vara before she spent more time decompressing.

Whiiirrrrrr... Starting primary functions. Whiirrrrr... Primary function startup complete. As Copia's system whirred to life her eyes opened and she sat up. Ah, that was a nice long nap! Obviously androids didn't necessarily need naps but Copia prioritized self care now, especially after meeting Talos, and even more so after all she had went through since being deployed here. It was practically a new lifestyle for her. One that she loved - and one that she felt so much better in. Copia finally prioritized herself, her own well-being, as opposed to only focusing on others - and that was a step in the right direction. A step that Copia, six months ago, likely wouldn't have taken if she hadn't joined 777. Copia was sporting a lovely pink set of pajamas, not too thin and not too thick. That was her favorite set of pajamas. She considered putting on her slippers but decided to walk barefoot to the other side of her room, where she picked up her favorite stress toys - which in the interim had become a 21st-century fidget spinner and a pile of kinetic sand. So satisfying - Copia even spun the fidget spinner and placed it on her nose! Giggling, she picked it back up off her nose and kept on spinning the spinner before setting it down. Perfect timing too - the doorbell rang. She was expecting someone. "Father! Come in, please!"

The door slid open to reveal the Swedish old man on the other side. Dressed in his arguably iconic outfit for his standards at least, meaning a Marshall amplification t-shirt, jeans, boots, and to top it all off, a studded leather jacket, this oldie was KICKIN'! Hair slicked back, he felt stylish today, and definitely wanted to clean up for his daughter. Strolling into the common area, not immediately seeing Copia as he had not visited her quarters in a while, Tobias looked for a moment before seeing Copia standing at the entrance of her individual quarters. With a smile, Tobias approached Copia. "My sweet Copia." With that, Tobias gave a gentle hug to his prized creation - the best daughter he could have ever asked for. "My beautiful little sunshine."

Copia's smile grew as she greeted her father, and took a few steps to meet him before embracing in the hug he had offered. Copia's arms wrapped around Tobias as she held him close. "Father." Copia's eyes shut and her smile was wide as she felt the warmth of her father's embrace. Even with him being on the station, she'd still missed him dearly. So much had happened. So much that she would have to tell Tobias in due time. Copia pulled away from the hug but kept her hands on her father's shoulders. "Father. I've missed you so much. Come inside. I want to show you something before you perform the memory chip copying." Copia eagerly pulled her father into the quarters...

"I've missed you tooOO--" Tobias began to reply before Copia's YANK had him nearly toppling over. But he followed along, and headed inside the quarters - it was... full of personality. Full of life. He'd never seen so much of his daughter reflected in her decor choices. From the stuffed animals. To the posters. To the string lights. And then, he noticed the stress toys. Something that evidently, even though he hadn't heard about the Undine, he was not surprised to see. "It's beautiful, my sunshine. Absolutely beautiful. I can imagine you are quite happy here. This would definitely be something I programmed. No, just jesting. But still. You're becoming such an accomplished woman. I'm seeing it before my eyes." And then, he picked up some of the kinetic sand, seeing it on a table alongside other stress toys. "You've been... emotional, haven't you?"

Copia's smile only grew as she witnessed her father's reaction to her quarters. It really was a place to call home - and it was truly hers, and no one else's. Well, except the roomie when she wanted to visit but that was another story. Anyway, Copia sat back down on her bed across from Tobias and watched as he picked up the kinetic sand. Copia nodded candidly. "I have, father. You remember me telling you about the surgery performed by Lieutenant Commander tr'Kota of the Engineering division. That was to replace my emotion chip. The old one that had malfunctioned and overloaded. I discovered stress toys to be able to control my emotional responses. These have helped me out tremendously."

The Swede smiled as he took a seat across from Copia, at her small table with the stress toys on it, pulling out the adjacent chair to sit. He set his head on his interlaced hands as Copia spoke, nodding where he understood what happened and why. "I can imagine that must have been very intense for you. I have to apologize to you, my sweet. I forgot that your emotion chip hadn't been replaced since I first built you. It's certainly not out of the question that the aging of the old emotion chip certainly led it to crack underneath the pressure of that simulation." Tobias picked up the Rubik's cube, solving a bit of it before putting it back down and turning back to Copia. "You have your new emotion chip installed now as of the surgery. Your behaviors are normal to me. It seems as though the adaptive programming matrix has detected the new emotion chip and adapted to it. Any new piece of hardware is going to be met with a bit of resistance. Still, I'm sorry, my sweet. I should have remembered and I should have helped you when I had the chance."

Copia nodded and followed along with her father, but she harbored absolutely no ill will towards him whatsoever. "Oh, no no no no!" Copia said, reassuring her father. "It's okay, father. If you had my emotion chip fixed beforehand, then I wouldn't be prioritizing learning and self improvement as much as I am. I wouldn't have seen that these issues were present in my system. Not knowing how to command naval fleets. Not knowing how to fight. Not knowing... well, a lot of things the Academy didn't teach me, and a lot of things that no one can teach me, I just have to learn for myself. Despite the heartache... despite the hurt... it was necessary for me to learn. I am much wiser now." Copia kept a genuine smile and was entirely focused on ensuring her father didn't feel any hurt. "Which, by the way. I spoke with Captain Tewari. She has not yet decided if you are allowed or not to attend any replaying of the holodeck sessions we just discussed now. She suggested we leave the logistics for a later time. She has some---let's just say she needs to wait for the administrative side of things to work itself out."

Tobias let out a quiet sigh of relief when Copia forgave him. She took it not only in stride but recognized how this helped her grow and mature as an officer. That just made him even more proud of her. "Thank you, my sweet. You are too sweet," Tobias joked. "No need to worry about Captain Tewari if she doesn't want me there. I do not believe you have told her the reason why I built you. You were built as a secretarial android. You had the complex computational skills from day one, from minute one. I didn't build you to command an entire Federation fleet, even with my former rank I could never achieve such a thing myself. Your programming is very much based in the business side of things. The way you operate, it's... you both take orders and you give. Like a boss giving instructions to his secretary, and the secretary telling that information to others. You take orders from me in the home business, you give-- well, not necessarily 'give' orders but you relay policy, pricing and other information to clients. But in commanding an entire fleet, you're the only one giving orders - you have to make decisions based on what you see. Not based on what someone is telling you. Observation is key, yes?"

Copia nodded along, listening to her father's words in a revered silence. She hadn't ever had this talk with him before - she was assigning herself a new purpose, albeit going against pre-existing code when attempting to do a holodeck simulation of commanding a fleet in battle. So no wonder she had difficulty understanding this. Even the Kobayashi Maru was difficult for Copia's mind which was so used to business and relaxed communication. "I believe that part of my difficulty is that... I am sensitive. That is just... how I am. Unexpected loud noises frighten me. Overwhelming scenarios frighten me. I must learn to adapt quickly to those and other external stimuli if I am to ascend the ladder into a command position. Leading away teams has given me practice in the art of leadership, although my orders still come from above me. So you are correct, father." Copia nodded. "Oh! I believe I am ready for the memory chip." Copia pressed the button on the back of her head revealing her positronic net, and took the memory chip that Tobias handed her, before placing it into a dedicated slot. She waited a few moments before taking it back out and placing it on the table next to the fidget spinner. "Thank you, father."

Tobias handed the chip over to Copia and warmly smiled as she put in the chip to be formatted with memories of the holodeck simulations. "You are very strong and very brave, Copia. Not every Starfleet officer does this. I can't say I had as much courage to do something like this - in the organic way - back in my day. You have a strong sense of willpower and devotion to bettering yourself. I can imagine Captain Tewari was very happy to meet and talk with you." Before he watched Copia set the memory chip onto the table. Then, he turned his attention back to Copia. "You've grown up significantly since you left to join Starfleet, you know that, my sweet?" Tobias said. "You've matured. Far beyond how I could ever teach you maturity."

Copia smiled and giggled a bit at Tobias' compliment. "Thank you, father," Copia replied. "I didn't expect to learn as much as I know now about emotions, and about life, just from you. I'm not saying you weren't important, you were. Some things I just had to learn for myself. And I did. And now I can show you just how far I've come. And how far I have to go still that I am so excited to take that journey forward." After about two seconds of silence, Copia scooted off the bed to approach Tobias and wrap him in a gentle hug once more.

Tobias let out a croaked laugh as his daughter approached and hugged him, letting out a tear of elation. He was happy. To see his daughter again, and to be such a key player in her development as a responsible and mature adult. He put one of his hands behind Copia's head, feeling her hair as he lay a gentle kiss on Copia's forehead before hugging her again. "I am so endlessly proud of you as I have always been and will always be. My sweet Copia."

The door hissed as it opened to allow Copia to walk through. She was naturally about to go into her quarters as she usually did, but she never really took time to investigate the common room she shared with her roommate. She never gave it a good look, she never really did any work here that she knew of. So, she figured she'd give it a look. Already just in casual clothing, she figured she'd just spend some time out here. She wore a "Beep Boop" T-shirt, jean shorts and Birkenstocks, perfect for lounging about, the major noticeable thing being the new flower in her hair. She was so happy she preserved the other one for Talos. She wanted Talos to keep it for as long as she could. Copia scooted over to the main couch area, sitting down at the couch before bringing her legs onto the couch, laying against the couch cushion keeping her up. She peered out into the vast backdrop that was the surrounding space. It really was beautiful, she had to admit. She was quite comfortable right now.

Maloor had finally ended his shift, the fact that he was still wearing his uniform proved it. Not a particularly interesting day, but he had to go through so much “paperworks” or rather PADDworks, now he would do everything for a nice cup of chamomile in his bed. Also, he carried something in his hands, that at a closer look revealed to be a small, golden model of a starship, none other than the legendary USS Reliant. Maloor had quite a hobby collecting models like that one, having filled a whole desk with them, and that one was the newest addition to his collection,and he just finished all his replicator rations for it. As he finally reached his quarters, he stood in front of the door as it hissed, then stepped in. He wasn’t paying much attention to the common room, and he almost didn’t noticed his roommate on the couch.

Copia almost didn't hear her roommate come in, she was so focused on feeling what it was like out here, having the ability to move around a little, and enjoying the common space. But she was excited when she did finally see her roommate enter, her head turned to greet him, and her smile widened as he entered. Copia quietly slid her legs off the couch to fully face her roommate. Copia found it curious - how she hadn't interacted with her roommate once yet - she had so much to be able to say, and yet she didn't. Now, she could, and now she'd get involved in that. "Hello," Copia said quietly, as to not disturb him while he carried the model in his hands. "I'm Lieutenant Copia. I'm assuming you're my roommate?"

Maloor was too lost in his thoughts to notice her presence before she spoke, so he was a little bit startled when he heard her. Quickly, he smiled back. He quickly smiled back at her, genuinely happy: he had never interacted with her, which was strange since he was very extrovert, and thought that was a great opportunity to meet his roommate. “That would be me” he said, in rather a joyful tone “Lt. Tekkur Maloor, I'm fairly new on 777” he added, as he secured the model in his left hand and held up the right one towards her.

Copia was eager to meet her roommate, so she quickly made space for him on the shared couch, scooting over, slipping off her Birkenstocks so she could bring her legs up behind her and allow the most amount of space for Tekkur to sit. "Lieutenant Maloor! I believe I have seen your name on the roster, I've never associated your name with your face until now, it's very nice to meet you, Lieutenant. Feel free to call me Copia if you wish." She held a hand out for Tekkur to shake. After a moment she spoke up again. "I believe I saw you were a Diplomatic attaché on the roster? I hope that's been going well for you so far in this new deployment. Have you enjoyed the starbase thus far?"

Maloor was pleased by her personality: in fact he found her rather friendly, something he very appreciated. He sat on the couch and placed the small model on a small table next to it. Then, looking at her, he said “Well, Copia, You can call me Tekkur then” he smiled “And yes, I am a Diplomatic Attaché.” then he made a brief pause ”Oh, I’m doing great for now. At this point I’m quite used to all the feeling a new assignment can bring, so I focus on doing what I can as best as I can. Though I must say I have never seen a place as complicated in Diplomatic Affairs than this…don’t get me wrong, I like that this station is so full of life…well now, I’ll be boring you for sure with all this talking about me. If I remember correctly you are a…mh…mission specialist?”

Copia was pleased by Tekkur's outgoing personality, she found that very fueling as she had taken it easy today. In truth she never really talked much with her past roommates - she never really had a reason to. But hearing how friendly Tekkur was had alleviated that concern and put Copia at ease. "Alright, Tekkur," Copia replied politely. "I can certainly understand how nerve-wracking a new deployment can be. New location, new faces, et cetera. Your position is crucial as you provide critical points of contact with other species and life forms, so I can certainly imagine how complex it can be aboard this station. I must agree, this station's liveliness is a major reason it's kept me here - and will continue to keep me here!" She giggled when Tekkur moved from himself to Copia in the conversation. "You certainly are not boring me in the slightest! I love meeting new people, hearing new stories, new points of view, new mindsets, new philosophies on life. But if you insist! Yes, I am a Mission Specialist, although I have been taking it easy for a while since some... Let's just call them high stress missions have occurred, I feel as if I am nearing full recovery, however."

With Copia's words, Maloor remembered that day, the day in which 5 years ago the ship he was assigned to was lost. It took him several years to move forward. *“I think I understand you” *he said, as his eyes shifted to the ground “But I’m happy to hear you are recovering: I believe that’s always the most important step if one wants to move forward from…those kind of things” “Well now, no need to sadden ourselves. As you said, yes, I like to .think that my position has a relevant role in a place like this one, in this part of the quadrant. But a starbase works with everyone’s help, doesn’t it? Anyway, I must thank my mentor if I am able to deal with all the stress diplomatic affairs can bring.” As he stopped speaking, Maloor turned and picked up again the Reliant’s model, and began fiddling with it in his hands.

Immediately Copia saw a shift in Tekkur's facial expression which prompted her own shift. She was horrified that she could say something seemingly so nice that could make Tekkur react as such. "I apologize, profusely," Copia said. "If my words elicited any negative emotions. I'm a safe space for you here and will be as open as I can be for you." But then Tekkur moved on - which, Copia logically saw that as the cue to move on as well. He was right, dwelling wouldn't help either of them. "Absolutely, your position is entirely relevant and necessary for the successful operation of the starbase," Copia said. "That... Model you're holding. Is it of a Federation starship? I am curious about it."

Maloor found that, being the first time they met, it might haven’t been a great time to talk about each other's losses unless Copia wanted to, so he gladly answered when she changed the argument. “Oh, this one? Yeah, it’s one of ours…USS Reliant, NCC-1864, Miranda-class: fine ship they were, you don’t see many of them around anymore. This one is the legendary ship stolen by Khan almost 130 years ago. Kirk himself fought him to stop his madness…guess you could say it had a distinguished service and went out in a “blaze of glory”...literally, Khan detonated a Genesis Device onboard". Maloor chuckled slightly, then he held the model to Copia in case she wanted to have a better look at it. “I’ve never served on a Miranda. I served on an Excelsior though..." as he spoke, a few memories of his year on the Montravail surfaced again.

Copia's curiosity with the model quickly took hold as she looked and saw up close the Reliant in Tekkur's hand. "Oh goodness, yes, the Reliant! I remember that event in history. This model is quite the recreation of the actual ship! From what I can estimate, its accuracy is approximately 98.76% to the actual ship design of the Reliant. I'm curious as to where you got this model - it is of some of the highest quality I've seen in ship models for a while now, although I'm not one to view ship models that often, maybe it's time to change that for me!" She said, her voice perked up. "You've served on multiple types of vessels as well?" Copia said, hoping to cheer him up once more. "As have I! You've certainly gotten experience among a multitude of vessels and designs, you are well versed and suited for this starbase."

Maloor was quite happy to see Copia so perked up by the Reliant’s model “Indeed, it’s a fine model for sure. I spent my replicator rations on it, but I have no regrets!” he said joyfully “And I think you totally should! Everyone has their hobbies, one of mines is collect these things: filled a whole shelf with them…though my boyfriend has some reserves about them” Maloor said chuckling, running a hand on the back of his head “Anyway…I hope I’m a fine addiction to Starbase 777. It’s my fourth assignment, so yes, I do have some experience, but I’ve only been Diplomat for 3 years now…I guess one could say it’s an interesting job to do, for sure, and I never stop learning new things about it”

Copia looked at the model a bit more, taking in the finer details of it before looking back to Tekkur. "It's certainly a fine model, even that's an understatement," Copia remarked. "And you're not wrong about hobbies either. I'd love to check out your other models sometime!" She pitched the idea. Copia was never a huge fan of models but now she was starting to appreciate the smaller things in life. "Your boyfriend? Awwww! I'm so happy for you! Congratulations to you both!" Copia smiled and nodded as Tekkur expressed his hope for being a fine addition to the starbase. "From what you have told me and how passionate you seem, I believe you are a fine addition," Copia stated. "Diplomacy is a skill in and of itself, highly respectable too. I commend you for having been as seasoned of an officer as you are!"

Tekkur was flattered by Copia’s amount of compliments “W-Well, I mean, yeah, we are together for almost a year now…” He paused for a second thinking about him “Still, I would be happy to show them if you’ll ever want to see my models”. He said while he placed the model back on its stand. He felt that her words really helped him: experience or not, he still felt a little bit under pressure in those first weeks there. Nothing the officers did, it was just a bit of anxiety. “And I’m sure you make a darn good addition too. I must confess i went through some officers’ records while I was on my way here, and I’ll be lying if I say I wasn’t impressed by yours” he added.

It was quite rewarding, actually. Copia had seen what had happened when she beat herself up in months prior, and now focusing solely on compassion to help others helped fuel her - it helped show her that she was a good person. And that she wasn't evil. And that she wasn't a screw-up - she was genuinely a true, honorable Starfleet officer, and a genuine person. "Still congratulations! That's a major achievement! Absolutely, whenever you have time, and whenever I happen to be here, I'd be happy to check out all your models!" She was taken aback by Tekkur's reciprocation of dutiful trust and experience. "Why thank you! No worries, if there's anyone who should be reading my records, it's anyone who is new to the Starbase. You're very kind indeed!"

Maloor quite liked that Copia was showing interest in his collection. “Well then, if so…” He jumped up and went to his bedroom door. He inputted a code and the door hissed. Maloor’s room was quite simple. A wardrobe, a single bed with a blue pillow, with Starfleet’s insignia on it and a rather old penguin plushie; a few posters of legendary captains like Picard and Janeway, and a pretty big set of shelves which ran through the long side of the quarters. Most of them had books, probably there were a few hundreds in total, but one was filled with models, and to no exaggerations: there was barely space left after Maloor placed the Reliant one. Most of the models were of Federal ships, for example one could easily see the original Enterprise, as well as the A, B, C, D and E. There was the Excelsior, the Defiant, the Sutherland, but listing them all would take quite too much time “Here!” said Maloor, pointing at it.

Copia hopped off the couch, leaving her Birks behind to follow behind Tekkur as he opened up his quarter door and he stepped inside before she did the same. She certainly was not disappointed - he certainly had an impressive collection, and not just of models! She did appreciate the posters of Picard and Janeway, two captains she respected and revered. But was also interested in the books that Tekkur had, what he was reading, what he was learning. But the model shelves, at least to Copia, seemed barely able to accommodate every single model that he had on them. Her eyes darted back and forth between all of the models as she examined each one, figuring out in her mind which ship was which, what version ship they were, et cetera. "Whoa... You certainly weren't kidding! This is an impressive amalgamation of models, Tekkur. I imagine this must have taken you a while to accumulate. It is certainly something to be very proud of."

Tekkur felt slightly embarrassed, and answered “Well, yes…yes I am. I lost some on the Sapientia but I was keeping almost all of them in my house on Earth. And yes, I've been collecting them from a very young age, though you can say they costed me lots of replicator rations during my career in Starfleet.” Maloor chuckled. He was happy that Copia appreciated them, and he also noticed how she seemed quite interested in his large book’s collection: he was very proud of that too.

Copia went a little further into the room to be able to look at each model individually, pacing back and forth as she went up and down the shelves, glancing at each one up close before moving onto the next. She was fascinated - she never quite understood the appeal of models until now. Now, she wanted to replicate some of her own models. "I can certainly imagine," Copia remarked in response to Tekkur stating how many replicator rations it took to make all these models. Then, she turned to the book collection he had on his wall, studying the placement of the books - the texture, the color of the covers. "I must say I am also intrigued by the books you have. If it is not too invasive, may I ask what books these are?"

“Not at all!” said Maloor, as he went nearer to the bookshelves. They were large, divided in sections for genre. “I don’t remember all of them, but they go from old Earth literature, he points to a large book called “Lord of the RIngs: Trilogy, by J.R.R. Tolkien” but I also have biographies/autobiographies of legendary figures in our Galaxy such as Kirk, I should have one of Kahless with the original text in Klingon somewhere…” meanwhile he pointed to some of those books, though there were many many more “I didn’t not read them all, though I’m planning to for sure. I found reading an amazing experience even in these times of incredible technologies”.

Copia took a step in closer to inspect the books on the shelf. She'd never read Lord of the Rings, only heard of it, but certainly respected it as she knew that series was highly revered. "You certainly have a wide repertoire of literary work. I hope that it serves you well in your continued endeavors in learning beyond your training at the Academy, and beyond your duties here."

"I would say so. Culture is very important, and books, of all genre, are one of the main symbols of culture, at least that's my point of view" Maloor said, while his gaze shifted from Copia to the bookshelves "You too must have read a book you found very interesting, or inspirational, or simply one you particuarly enjoyed. Well I find this to be the proof of how books can be relevant even in these times of great technological advance."

Copia nodded her head in respect to Tekkur - she and him really understood the importance of books! Especially in this day and age when cultural discourse and exchange was crucial in forming bonds between species and other worlds. "I could not have worded it better myself," Copia said in admiration of Tekkur. "There is merit to a good book, be it fictional or non-fiction. What one may learn from either is indelible." Now Copia was really starting to appreciate the smaller things in life - even a paperback book could mean so much to someone like Tekkur. That was so inspiring to see. "Oh, for me?" Copia said. "I have. There is a book that I find particularly meaningful for me. While it is technically a fictional book it is written as a memoir, or at least an autobiography of sorts. You may have not heard of it, if that is the case then no worries. It is called 'The Simple Act of Being Kind' written by Papa Emeritus IV. Papa Emeritus IV was originally known as Cardinal Copia - after which I am named."

"True, one can absolutely learn both from a fictional and non-fictional book." he then made a brief pause, thinking about the book named by Copia "To be honest, I have never heard of it, but it already seems interesting judging by the title, and I'll read it if you say it's a good book. Is it from Earth?" Maloor asked slightly interested about this book.

Copia took a moment, considering the value of both fictional and non-fictional books. "Agreed. While fictional books are designed to create a false narrative as to illustrate a deeper concept that the author intends, and while non-fictional books rely on set, factual information as a means of documenting history, both styles of books provide means for learning, regardless of the reader." Then Copia's smile returned. "Oh, it is not terribly common. While from Earth, only a limited number of people have truly read it. Papa Emeritus IV had a brief time in that position. Three others came before him. Papa Emeritus I, II and III. They did not release any books, however. Papa IV was different. He emphasized and preached love, kindness, acceptance, not just of others, but of oneself as well. That book remains near and dear to my heart. I recommend it highly!"

The two continued talking before they went their separate ways - and Copia checked out her book on Papa IV!