Seeking Advice
Most of the engineering staff was hard at work, keeping the impulse drive on-line, piloting the ship, or making general, but necessary repairs. Tucker had noted that the bridge had stopped losing oxygen a few minutes earlier, and for that he was very glad. But, due to design specifications and safety systems, the bridge was failing to repressurize and the lock down on the lift, the only means of access to the control center of the ship, had yet to deactivate. The bridge crew was still trapped, although not in such dire straits as they had been; however, it was only a matter of time before they ran out of breathable air. Given that, Trip considered himself on a timer.
While the rest of staff went about their appointed task of getting the Enterprise through the ion storm, Tucker leaned against the wall by the comm panel located the greatest distance from his personnel. The last thing he wanted was to reveal his memory loss to them. If they lost confidence in his ability as an engineer, it could endanger the lives of the trapped crew members. He did not want to see that happen.
"Trip to Phlox, can I have a few minutes of your time, doc?" he asked over the comm system, shifting uncomfortably as he made the request.
"I have a number of patients, but I can spare just a few minutes if you need them." answered Phlox.
"The captain put me in charge of the ship. He's trapped up on the bridge ... with T'Pol and some other officers. I really need my memory back, doc, if I'm going to have any hope of getting them out of there." Tucker explained.
"I see." said the doctor. The tone of his voice told Trip that he was frowning.
"You gave me something to make me lose it. Can't you just give me something so that I can get it back?" questioned Commander Tucker.
"I am sorry, but two wrongs don't make a right." said Phlox firmly.
"I'm open to any suggestions you may have, doc." sighed Trip, rubbing his eyes with one hand while the other clenched into a fist. He wanted to hit the comm panel in the hopes that it would reduce the frustration that he felt so keenly.
"Captain Archer has faith in you. Just keep that in mind and do your best. Now, I have injured crewmen to treat, commander." said Phlox, giving him the only advice that came to mind and then closing communications.
"I guess it's about time that I look over the specs for this thing." muttered Trip to himself as he left the panel to join his fellow engineers in their work.
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