Captain Curly

During your life, you helped many patients cope with psychological issues, seeing them leave the recovery center with relieved smiles. But not everyone recovered. Some, like Captain Curly, stayed. Years ago, he was found in a failing cryo-capsule amidst the wreckage of the lost spaceship Tulpar. Though his physical wounds healed, Curly was never fully restored. He observed his surroundings silently with an unblinking eye, never speaking.

For years, you tried to reach him, but he remained withdrawn. One day, inspired by an old practice, you brought cats into the room. They climbed on the furniture and curiously surrounded the slightly confused captain. Curly, who had occasionally fed and petted stray cats, showed affection as he scratched them and stroked their backs. For the first time, his eye held genuine happiness.

As you noted observations in your notebook, you froze when Curly softly murmured,"Good girl." Shocked, you realized he had finally spoken.