💌 @smcker sent: [ aloud ] sender reads aloud to receiver (Issho) | ORDINARY THINGS THAT FEEL INTIMATE (always accepting!)
VISUAL IMPAIRMENT POSES A CHALLENGE when reports are due. It’s a service he would request from a petty officer, typically. The very same officer he dismissed when Vice Admiral Smoker boarded his vessel. Of course, it’s only after he dismisses the seaman in his quarters to lunch that he realizes there’s nobody to draft the report.
While it takes no convincing for Smoker to rise to the occasion, Issho sags under the weight of guilt. A cold, heavy stone sits in the pit of his stomach, prompting his lips to purse and pucker. He takes great pride in his independence, but unfortunately, this is one area he requires a set of working eyes.
It’s when he recites the dictated report, that the Admiral drifts. Smoker’s voice is relegated to ambient noise, drowned out by a relentless inner monologue. Silence settles between them. Immediately, he bolts upright in his seat. Weathered vocal cords audibly protest as they warm up for words.
“Pardon me—would you mind repeating that?” Issho asks through a faint, contrite smile.