Blowing off Steam

Posted on 22 Feb 2022 @ 2:58pm by Lieutenant Aria Rice & Petty Officer 3rd Class Helliun 'Hel' Inant & Commander Scarlet Blake & Commander Allyndra illm Warraquim & Lieutenant JG Tris Shizn & Chief Warrant Officer 2 Kala Marika & Chief Warrant Officer 2 Kala Gorvel & Petty Officer 1st Class Gabriel Stark

3,639 words; about a 18 minute read

Mission: Episode 18 - Cold Station 31
Location: Regula I - Level 17, Promenade
Timeline: MD 01, Post Promotions

[ON]

Regula I’s night life was booming, pre arrival Kala had already arranged department drinks. They would first meet up in a cocktail bar called ‘Faster than light’ (hopefully because by the end of the night Kala would be seeing in warp.) After a few drinks and games here, the bar was one of those fresh ones that tried to be cool and sophisticated so the attire was smart, the drinks were expensive and yet housed a small 10 pin bowling alley, basketball hoops and arcade machines from Earths 90’s era. They’d then head to the only nightclub well aptly dubbed, Renegades of Regulus or just Renegades for short to finish the night and end up where they end up. She was wearing a nice evening dress, black that sparkled as the light hit it, a small clutch bag and her hair was still in its post-hairdresser state where it looked like it was straight of the style guide with her undercut hair and deep dark peacock colour hair, she was celebrating and so she felt she wanted to look her best.

Walking to the door she peaked in to see some of her Department had already arrived but not all, she made her way to the bar having smiled and waved in their direction to order a drink.

“What will it be love?” The mixologist from behind the bar asked pointing to the menu in front of her. “Tonight we have a 2 for 1 until 2100, but something tells me you wont be here all that long if that bunch is with you.” He chuckled nodding in their direction, it was true the Galileo’s Engineers could be a little loud.

“Urm…” She said pinching her lips together before finally settling on a drink, “Can I just get two a Starboard Martinis’ please” It was amazing how bars renamed simple drinks, in essence the drink was a Passion fruit Martini but heaven forbid they just call it that, again ‘Sophistication’ at it finest. Kala waited as the mixologist went to work making her drinks.

PO3 Helliun Inant walked in with a small smile curling her lips, her yellow eyes taking in the bar. She had gotten her assignment, which was helpful considering her ship was...she stopped the thought in its tracks. But she had spent three months not really having much to do, so a new department was exciting. She walked over to the bar, her hair free with its various braids and wearing a sleeveless top and tight leggings, alongside some heavy boots. She had gotten it all replicated, since her previous belongings were presumably floating in space around now.

She looked at the woman beside her, her eyes going to the spots. Trill. She liked it when other species were more easily identifiable, with how many looked like humans. She watched the bartender for a moment before looking at the cocktail menu, tilting her head to the side as she patiently waited her turn to be served.

The mixologist continued to shake the beakers together putting in a but if a show, he'd never seen the woman who had just arrived nor could he put a name to her race, still as a mixologist on a space station he was used to seeing new things. "I'll be with you in just a moment love." He said continuing to shake.

Kala hadn't noticed the other woman arrive, nor did she recognise her, but having already had a drink at the promotions ceremony, and a couple of more drinks before arriving she was feeling open. "Hi there!" She smiled, "Do you work on the station?" Kala asked taking in her unusual rust coloured skin and yellow eyes. Having only just been promoted and assigned Chief engineer she wasn't upto date with the latest crew additions, and when she sent put her invitation she just added everyone with the engineers tag. "I like your hair!"

Hel looked at her, smiling as she held her eyes. "Thanks. Like your spots," she tilted her head, sizing the other woman up for a moment. "And I don't. I just got my orders through, I'm going onto the Galileo. Engineering. Then I have an invitation to come over here for an Engineering party..." she looked around as she said it, taking in the crowd. "And I am assuming they're not here yet, because it's really quiet for a bunch of Engineers. No arguments about the best way of handling a plasma conduit."

"Thanks I grew them myself." Kala started with a chuckle, she felt as if she was being stalked like prey, but shrugged the feeling. "Ah! Well the party is just getting started!" She held out her hand for the other woman to shake, "Kala Gorvel, Chief Engineer of the Galileo, welcome to the mad house."

Hel hesitated, but more because she was mid thought. She pushed herself to stand properly and took the hand, her grip a little hard before she caught herself and loosened it. "Helliun Inant. Everyone calls me Hel."

"Its nice to meet you Hel, just call me K!" She noticed her two drinks had been placed down and the mixologist was waiting for Hels order. "Let's get you a drink or two and I'll Introduce you to the gang, we're not like most engineering departments." Kala explained, she almost said they'd been through hell and back but thought it was too early in the night to crack that joke and her Initial grip informed Kala she'd crush her if she wanted too.

"Whisky neat, double," Hel said as she met the eyes of the mixologist, holding them for a long moment. Nothing fancy, nothing special. Just that. Proper. She gave a nod when the mixologist did and then looked at Kala. "Nice to meet you, K."

Kala watched the exchange and reminded herself to get Hel a bottle of whiskey as a welcoming gift. "So what got you posted to the Galileo?" She asked genuinely interested in learning more about the woman who would be working with her. She still didn't like to use the term 'under her' or 'for her' their engineering department working dynamic wasn't going to change because she'd been given the job title of chief. She wanted to create an environment where they had a team of leaders.

"Well, last I saw my ship it was crumbling beneath us whilst we were being...you know...visited and I have spent some time on the Galileo recovering. Maybe it was just pure luck?" she asked before she sipped her drink. She looked around, her eyes warm before she nodded towards the people coming in. "So, any of these yours as well?" she turned, holding her glass...body turned towards Kala though, so she wasn't ending the conversation. But giving the other woman an opening to introduce her to others or wave more people over.

A Petty Officer approached them with his friend having seen Kala give the age-old 'Lets talk eyebrow raise' "Hey!" He said over-enthusiastically and clearly a little drunk already. "I'm Miles O'Brehain and this is Jordan Le'Gorge' If Kala is the brains to engineering we're the heart," He said winking at Kala, it was clear that the engineering crew had a special bond. "So, are you a drinker or a sinker?"

Hel looked at them for a long moment before she leant closer. "I am the sort likely to rip your throat open if you displease me..." she said, her voice husky before she laughed, throwing her head back. "Although I have been known for drinking. And sinking people in the holodeck."

Miles went a little white but recovered quickly, "Well remind us never to displease you in the future!" He was about to go on when another voice from behind stopped him, perhaps luckily.

"So...er...I'm going to try and not get offended that I wasn't invited to what is clearly a Galileo party," Gabriel Stark made his way over with an over the top show of being nonchalant about it. He wore black trousers with a matching black t-shirt and waistcoat. All tight enough to indicate he was up for a night out. "I can be won over from being offended by no less than a cocktail and two shots."

Hel looked at him, studying the human male before she motioned for drinks. "Shots then," she called out. "Something that burns the throat and makes you weep thinking of your homeworld."

The bartender provided, with a line of shotglasses and some purple-ish liquid being poured into them. "Your funerals..."

"Thanks," Gabriel grinned as he reached for one. He knocked it back with one sharp flick of the wrist, closing his eyes to savour the burn. "But there's not enough liquor in all of the multiverses that would make me weep for the homeworld."

Kala chuckled, "I mean technically this is an engineering shindig but with limited options, I'm guessing it's going to quickly turn into a Galileo shindig so." She asked for more shots but before the waiter left, "We'll keep the bottle" Kala Smiled and batted her eyelids. The bartender shook his head and left the mostly full bottle on the counter. "Here's to one hell of a messy night!" She raised another shot and took it back in one the burning sensation making her feel more alive than she had been in a week, but also helping her quickly forget everything they endured.

Hel took her shotglass, raising it with a loud whoop before knocking it back. She licked her lips, looking at Kala before looking at Gabriel. "Nothing wrong with having some extra bodies to dance with is there? Even if they aren't Engineering..." she reached out, her hand stroking over Gabriel's before she winked. "Especially if they are cute..." she looked at Kala as well, tilting her head. "In truth, I find all humans cute..."

"Cute? Like bunnies?" Gabriel laughed, shaking his head as he leant back against the bar, hooking his elbows up against it. "Yeah, humans, we're the cutest. Cute as tribbles. And cause just about as much trouble," he teased.

"I...tribbles aren't cute..." Petty Officer Lucrete moved up to them, taking a shotglass, looking very confused. "They look as if someone skinned a cute animal and left the fur around..."

"Bet they taste good though," Hel said lightly and knocked back her drink, looking at the others entering. "Is it true that tribbles are the mortal enemies of Klingons?"

Kala chuckled "Yep! And an Engineers worst nightmare! I have a secret back-up plan in case the Captain decides to let hers loose" There was a somewhat of an evil drunken glint in her eye. "I can't imagine a Klingon being so terrified of a ball of puff though." The Trill considered for a moment, "I think Klingons can be cute to." Kala wasn't sure if it was the drink or the long time in space talking.

Kala Marika stepped into the lounge, glancing around, seeing what looked like a bunch of engineers letting loose. Whoever said engineers were a bunch of geeks never attended one of these gatherings, and like most starfleet crew, in civilian clothes they couldn't be distinguished from any other crewman. Kala herself was wearing something that could best be described as a throwback to earlier times on Terra, early 21st century fashion, felt comfortable and fit her nicely without standing out too much. Denim jeans, shirt and jacket. Comfy and informal. (link) Taking a drink that was offered, she wasn't sure what but she didn't care in the moment, she glanced around, looking for any familiar faces.

An Andorian then entered the lounge and stepped over to the bar, stopping to take in the room and familiar faces.

"Klingons are certainly...interesting..." Hel said and winked before she saw another woman enter. She studied her outfit before she lifted her hand. "Hey! New face! Come, for we have shots!"

Kala Marika took the glass she'd been given and slowly sauntered over. She recognized the Petty officer who called to her, the women stood out in or out of uniform, and she smiled as she came closer. "Nice party you've got here, who all's here?"

Kala, the Trill type chuckled, well more giggled as the alcohol took its grip at the way the other woman spoke. "Hi! Well this is Gabriel Stark he's a young strapping security and tactical officer, i'd probably stay clear of him!" She teased winking at the other officer who was seemingly as drunk as she. "That is Tris Shizn one of our best flight control officer, Lucrete and Hel" She pointed at each. "They are mine and are some fine engineers! And you are???" Kala hadn't seen the latest of her engineering crew manifest and didn't recognise the rather pretty bajoran.

"Kala Marika. And I'm guessing you're Kala Gorvel, my soon to be boss." She nodded at each officer in turn, "This is gonna confuse the department that's for sure." Kala hadn't expected the real alcohol in the drink and she was already feeling it a little. She offered her hand to each officer in turn, "Guess when we sober up in the morning we'll have to properly meet over coffee or something."

Tris heard his name mentioned, turned and nodded that direction, before turning back to the bar. He had ordered a handful of shots of Andorian Vitsel. Looking at the heavy frost forming on the exterior of the glasses, it reminded him of the first time his father took him drinking. He was told that the Vitsel was not for most humanoids. The minus 15 degrees celcius would freeze most tongues. He picked up the first small glass and knocked back the very cold liquid into his mouth and felt the wonderful cold yet warming sensation as it went down his throat.

Gabriel sidled up to Tris, grinning as he hooked his arm around his shoulders, leaning in close to take a look for himself. "What's this? Looks intriguing...and strong...need any help with those?" he laughed warmly, clapping him on the shoulder.

Tris was a bit uncertain by the over-familiarity by Petty Officer Stark, but he understood the party attitude and this guy just might be a bit intoxicated. The Andorian just smiled with an encouraging response, “Well, these are an intoxicating beverage called vitsel. And since you are human, I would very much suggest that you do not try them, unless you want to spend the next several weeks in sickbay recovering from a frozen throat.”

Gabriel watched him with playfully narrowed eyes, an over the top look of mock accusation set on his features. "Clever...clever...I'll never know if you're just making that up so I can't steal your drinks..."

Tris couldn’t help but chuckle, then explaining with a more serious tone, “Oh, I am being quite serious.” Then with a touch of a smile, “You see, each of these are about 15 degrees below freezing. That will work quite excitingly well with an Andorian throat. But a human? I would not advise it.”

Gabriel looked around the group with a grin, shaking his head. "Anyone a trained medic here? Is it worth the risk?"

“Well,” Tris began, but then paused to consider the ramifications of frozen tissue in a human throat. “I might suggest that you wait a couple more minutes as the liquid approaches zero degrees Celsius, for safety sake. At that point you will also observe a boil off of the -butene.” A look of realization came over his face and he explained, “I’m sure you have seen frozen carbon-dioxide boil off when placed in liquid water. This is a similar effect, except the gas boiling off is flammable.” A more confident smile came, “At that point you will probably enjoy it better. As for the taste, I believe humans refer to it as ‘smokey flavored’.”

"Science and alcohol...." Gabriel grinned as he looked around the others, clapping his hand on Tris' shoulder. "Now I know I'm at a Starfleet party..."

"Smokey, like our friend Gabriel!" Kala chuckled as she took yet another gulp of her drink. The time at the cocktail back was coming to a close and Kala looked at the group, "Shall we move onto dancing? The one and only nightclub is just around the bend!" She exclaimed happily.

"Dancing?" Hel's eyes shone and she nodded, knocking back another drink. "I like dancing. Although...I would love to see who can keep up with me..." she almost taunted, but it was all in good fun to try and get the others excited about it. Albeit a bit aggressive as her eyes narrowed.

Tris just shook his head at the ‘sillyness’ of the woman’s comment, as he picked up another shot and tossed the freezing liquid into his mouth. He closed his eyes with pleasure as the cold drink went through his throat, followed by a warming sensation deep in his chest.

Hel looked at them and, deciding that they were too slow, reaching out for Tris' hand. "Dance with me," she said, her yellow eyes focusing on his grey ones. "Unless you need another shot for courage?"

Tris smiled at her accusation. This human looking woman had unusual markings on her face, which intrigued Tris. He knew she was new to the ship, but then raised a finger toward her, as a geature to slow her progress. He then turned back to the tray and tossed another shot of vitsel into his mouth. After a quick swallow, “Lead away my good woman. This might be interesting.” Then took steps to follow her.

Hel smiled as she led him, turning her head to make sure he followed her to the floor where enough tables had been cleared to be classified as a dancefloor. And she hoped more would join them as she moved with the music, taking a hand and placing it on Tris' shoulder. She cocked her head to the side, smiling almost sweetly. "It depends on how interesting you like it..." she breathed, just loud enough to cut through the music.

Tris had taken the expected position hand in hand with Hel and the other on her waist. They were moving quite well together. He felt, by her comment, that she might be desiring more from him than just a dance. The Andorian smiled back intrigued. As they danced, Tris looked intently at the facial markings on Hel’s face. He wanted to ask her, but it would really be too difficult for a conversation right now.

Hel smiled as she moved closer, letting him lead in what Tris most likely did not know was a rare thing. She watched him watching her before she smiled, tilting her head to the side. "You like them? Not many of my people in Starfleet..."

Tris was pleased that Hel was so observant. He decided to speak up, “Your facial markings are unique to me.” His antenna widened and he added, “I do find them . . appealing, . . in a primitive sort of way. No affence intended, I assure you.” His tone was honest and encouraging.

"None taken," she said and pressed close, so that their noses were almost touching. "I find you appealing...not sure if you are prey or a fellow hunter. But I do enjoy the chase anyway..." she winked and pulled back a little, her hand sliding from his shoulder to the back of his neck. "My species have the markings, most it was once a pigmentation mutation that got stuck. Some are more pronounced than others. And others try to enhance them as they are seen as a thing of beauty."

As he moved about the floor smoothly with Hel in his arm, he nodded in agreement, but realized that a verbal response would actually work best. He chuckled to himself. “Yes, I can definitely understand that in a social setting.” He turned her about once again and asked with a curious tone, “Is there ever any prejudice among your people based on these markings?”

"Never," Hel said, eyes flashing before she smiled, shaking her head. "Although the Sky Dwellers and Water Dwellers have issues with us...Sand Folk. But it is far more...like a friendly rivalry. What about amongst your people? Is there such a thing as antenna-envy?"

Tris was not expecting this question, pulling back just a few inches and stopping their motion. A more serious expression came over him, very unexpected. But he tried to brush it away with a smile and spoke slowly. “Not so much with the size or maneuverability of one’s antennae. But, on Andor there two groups . . Andorian and Aeanar.” Sadness washed over his face as his eyes cast down for a moment. Then looking directly at Hel, he finished the statement almost monotone, “And I am a product of that joining.” Then smiling to mostly distract himself, “Yes. Prejudice does exist in my world.”

"It does in the entire universe," she said before she smiled, her hand going to his neck, a finger tracing his skin as she studied him. "So, we do better," she finally added and gave a firm nod, dancing with him with the music.

Tris’ expression changed to a gentle smile, agreeing with her comment and being lulled by the stroking of his neck with warm fingers. He then moved the pair about the floor again with her in his arms.

[OFF]

--

PO3 Helliun 'Hel' Inant
Engineering Officer
USS Galileo-A
[PNPC Aria Rice]

PO1 Gabriel Stark
Security Officer
USS Galileo-A
[PNPC Scarlet Blake]

CWO2 Kala Gorvel
Chief Engineer
USS Galileo-A

LTJG Tris Shizn
Helmsman
USS Galileo-A

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