ST:UNI208 Pt. I | "What Happens on Shore Leave, Stays on Shore Leave"

Stardate 100604.1

Cadets Tanglao and T'Pia head back to Earth for a quiet visit with their respective families. Cadet Kayleigh joins Cadet Shavinnia's family visit to the new Orion homeworld of Narris II to sate her curiosity about the evolving Orion culture there.

---

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Cadet Shavi sits at the pilot seat of small shuttle, working away on her pre-launch checks while she waits for Kayleigh to arrive so they can head off to their vacation. Kayleigh of course, is running late...

Shavi mutters, "Where is that Vulcan...might have to comm her..."

She is soon put out of her misery when the shuttle door opens and Kayleigh steps in

Shavi turns, "There you are!"

Kayleigh - like Shavi - is also out of uniform. However unlike Shavi, Kay is wearing what can most be likened to a light pink ensemble that almost resembles a bikini and sarong, if not for the clearly OSN inspired adornments on her shoulder, arms and ankles

Kayleigh sighs, stowing her bag away, "I apologize for the delay, but for some reason there were many more disruptions from our classmates as I crossed the academy grounds"

Of course, one look at her tells exactly why there were so many disruptions...

Shavi narrows her eyes, "Did you spend all morning dressing up in /that/?"

Kayleigh: "No, of course not"

Kayleigh continues in blissful ignorance, "I also at breakfast, and went shopping to collect the last few pieces of the ensemble. Then I got dressed ready"

Shavi facepalms, "You're going to get a lot more disruptions if we touch down on Narris with that..."

Kayleigh: "Really?" she turns, "But according to my research this is typical vacationwear. I had to research traditional Orion styles separately, but I surely didn't get them that wrong did I?"

Shavi: "That's the thing. It's /Orion/ vacation wear. How do I put this..."

Kayleigh tilts her head slightly

Shavi thinks for a moment, "If I went to the Chlasi temple wearing those robes you and Mari have, they wouldn't be very pleased because I'm not a student there, would they?"

Kayleigh: "Well no, because it is like a uniform. The same could be said for a civilian roaming the academy dressed as a cadet. But this is not a uniform"

Shavi: "Yes, but uniforms are just a...formalized version of regular social codes. Which is that you don't dress like a certain type of people unless you're one of them. I mean, Orion fashion is fine for non-Orions to wear, but not like exactly what an Orion would wear on vacation. This is hard to explain..."

Kayleigh: "I shall take your word for it" she starts removing the Orion adornments, leaving just the bikini and sarong which if course is so much better...

Shavi: "That's...uhh...well, you're going to get a /different/ type of disruption dressed just like that..."

Kayleigh: "A... different kind? Different to what I already have? Because that might be acceptable"

Shavi: "Well, we Orions are an open people, but even we don't usually go out in that, unless we're specifically visiting a beach or something."

Kayleigh looks down herself again, "Ah. It would seem that my reference search for vacationewear inadvertently drew results biased towards beachwear. That would certainly explain all of the looks and comments that delayed my arrival"

Shavi: "That would explain it. There is a bit of a stereotype that vacation always involve beaches and beachwear. Blame Risa and Pacifica..."

Kayleigh: "Well now, this seems to fit the definition of an awkward moment if I am not mistaken. I shall change at once" she starts retrieving her back again

Shavi: "Do you have something else on you? We might miss our gateway window if you run back to your quarters! We'll /definitely/ miss it if you go shopping on the Promenade."

Kayleigh: "I did some essentials. I can change right now, or do you require my assistance for the gateway launch?"

Shavi: "Would be nice if I had a copilot! And I don't mind you dressing for the beach in the shuttle, it's just that everyone else might give you weird looks when we land, so you can change when we're through. The environmental system is set to standard room temperature though, so it might be cold for you in that. Especially considering half Vulcan and all..."

Kayleigh takes a seat, "Very well then, launch first change after"

Shavi taps away at her console, "Alright. Launching now..." She takes the shuttle out of the Annex hangar and into the wider Spherescape, heading towards the main gateway

Kayleigh works away as well, "Flight path registered with control, you should have a holding pattern now"

Shavi: "Perfect. See, much easier with two!"

Kayleigh: "I don't believe I ever suggested otherwise"

Shavi: "I just mean asking you to help first before you get changed. It's a...logical choice, dare I say?" she smirks

Kayleigh: "Indeed it is" she notices the smirk, almost doubletaking, "I fail to see how that it is humorous though"

Shavi chuckles, "It's just a thing we non-Vulcans like to do when we get to make a logical decision around Vulcans."

Kayleigh perks a brow, looking back to her console, "Other cultures have some strange ideas of entertainment"

Shavi taps away at her console as well as they begin to approach the gateway, "It's because you usually out-logic us, and we rarely have a chance to show off our logic!"

Kayleigh: "There's an inbound convoy coming through first when it opens, so we are instructed to hold here until it's cleared"

Shavi nods, "Holding position for now." She stops the shuttle and sits back to watch the convoy come through first

Kayleigh: "We have a reasonable amount of time on this trip. It may still not be enough, but it would clearly be beneficial to me at least if you could use this time to further educate me prior to our arrival"

Shavi: "About Orion fashion and how to dress properly?"

Kayleigh: "More... how not to inadvertently cause offense or unwelcome distractions, dresscode inclusive"

Meanwhile in the view ahead, they can see a modest convoy of Starfleet ships arriving. Clearly an engineering fleet from the many lesser seen utilitarian classes, but at the heart of the convoy is an unmistakable presence of a Jupiter class

Shavi: "Well, you're not Orion, so you could probably just wear what you normally wear, but I know you like Orion fashion and would probably like to experience it, so," she looks up. "Woah. That's a big ship."

Kayleigh: "Jupiter class. I have heard T'Pia call them spacestations with nacelles"

Shavi nods, "I can certainly see why!"

Kayleigh: "And yes, that is actually one of the reason I packed so lightly too"

Shavi: "To shop while we're on Narris?"

Kayleigh: "Exactly, yes"

Shavi: "A good plan! I'd recommend buying things without too much cultural connotation. Orion style is fine, we export our clothes all over the quadrant. But stuff that's for special occasions, I'm sure you can see why wearing a wedding gown to a cafe would be awkward."

Kayleigh hrms, clearly giving it serious thought. Far more than it warrants

The convoy clears the gateway and her console flashes

Kayleigh: "Ah, there. We are cleared to proceed now"

Shavi: "Good. Before you think too hard about wearing a wedding gown to a cafe..."

Shavi taps away at her console, moving the shuttle into the gateway

They pass through the gateway and emerge to the - usually - familiar sight of a starfield

Kayleigh peers out, "Considering our profession and place of residence, I find that we see this view far less than anticipated to the point it feels almost strange now"

Shavi: "Yeah. I guess we are in a Sphere, which might be why. On planetside Annexes, they go into space occasionally for training cruises or shuttle flights. But we do most of that inside the Heart, since there's more than enough space. It's basically an enclosed planetary system, after all!"

Kayleigh: "Indeed. Well, it looks like we are clear now"

Shavi: "Still a short way to Narris, so now's a good time to get changed."

Kayleigh stands, "Very well. I shall not be long"

—

With their shuttle now cruising along, Kayleigh disappears to get changed, emerging from the rear compartment a short time later

Kayleigh retakes her seat, "I hope this is more appropriate"

Shavi looks over from her piloting controls to see what Kayleigh has changed into

Kayleigh wears a much more typical snug pink jacket and white skirt. One of her favourite outfits Shavi has no doubt seen her in before

Shavi nods, "That definitely works!"

Kayleigh: "Based on my research of Orion traditions, I feel somewhat overdressed now. But seeing your attire, it feels less inappropriate"

Shavi chuckles, "I think I know what your problem is, and I'm pretty sure this trip can help you out there."

Kayleigh looks to Shavi expectantly, "...Is this something that can only be remedied once we are there, or would you care to elaborate?"

Shavi: "Well the thing is, research on Orion fashion tends to be a little biased. I'm sure you've realized that by now. Our culture is...kind of known for certain things, and we also export fashion and goods which reinforce that stereotype because that's what makes the most profit. And while Orions are more open than the average Children culture, we don't dress scantily /all/ the time, either. So I think it can be good for you to see proper Orion culture at work!"

Kayleigh: "Indeed. It would seem that in my efforts to avoid that stereotype by specifically researching tradition and historical fashion, I inadvertently fell right into it. This is what makes Orion society such an enigma that I find persistently fascinating"

Shavi nods, "That's the thing. The stereotype exists for a reason, because as I said, we are more open than a lot of other cultures. It's just that when all outsiders see /are/ the stereotype, that becomes an issue. But the stereotype also isn't exactly /wrong/, either. It's just not the whole picture."

Kayleigh: "I see. Well... no I don't, clearly. But I see that I don't"

Shavi chuckles, "This is why this trip will benefit you! Even though there's an Orion presence in the Heart, it's still primarily a military presence, with a little bit of merchants. On Narris though, you'll get to see the whole picture."

Kayleigh thinks on this for a few moments, content with the answer, "So what are your plans once we arrive?"

Shavi: "My parents are actually in the Heart, so I'm heading back to meet extended family. We're headed to my grandmother's inn, where we can get you a room."

Kayleigh: "I was not aware that grandfather operated such an establishment"

Shavi: "I don't think I ever mentioned it before! It doesn't come up often, usually people ask about your parents, but your grandparents are far enough removed that you don't often get questions about them."

Kayleigh: "That is understandable. I will make sure to keep this in mind when we are there"

Shavi: "They're very nice people. You'll see!"

—

Meanwhile, Mariel and T'Pia materialize on the transporter pad of the Challenger, bags in hand as they join the ship for it's return trip to the Sol System

A male Trill in a red-striped uniform with Commander pips stands in the transporter room to greet them, "Welcome to the Challenger, Cadets."

T'Pia steps down off the pad, "Thanks! Well... welcome back, as it were" she chuckles

The Trill smiles, "Yes, I heard you've been on board before, Cadet T'Pia, but I didn't have the pleasure of meeting you in person." He offers a hand, "Commander Karos Tir, First Officer. And your friend is...?"

T'Pia looks to Mari, not presuming to speak for her

Mariel: "Cadet Mariel Tanglao. We're in the same class at the Annex."

Commander Tir offers his hand as well, "Welcome to the Challenger, Cadet Tanglao."

Mariel shakes his head, "Thank you, Commander. I wasn't expecting the First Officer to welcome a couple of cadets."

Tir: "After what Cadet T'Pia did for us, how could I not?"

T'Pia: "Why do I get the feeling my actions have been exaggerated here"

Tir chuckles and waves for them to follow, "If you want exaggerated, you should hear our Chief of Security tell the story."

T'Pia: "Oh dear..." she mutters, following along

Mariel: "Don't worry, I already know what happened here! I heard it from the other Cadets. Though to be fair, I'm not sure if that's any better on the over-exaggeration department..."

T'Pia: "At least in their version, I'm not a solo act"

Mariel: "If I need to, I can always try to see for myself exactly what happened..."

Tir: "I hope you don't mean hacking into our security data, Cadet."

Mariel: "Oh no, nothing like that! I mean psionics!"

Tir chuckles, "Good. When I was in the Academy, there was a Cadet in my class who was always accessing secure data she shouldn't be."

T'Pia: "That sounds troublesome"

Tir nods, "It was just before the most recent Klingon War, around the time of that whole Romulan and Changeling conspiracy business. I still don't know how to this day, but she managed to pull up classified reports and footage of the situation."

T'Pia: "An impressive level of skill, despite the dubious application"

Tir: "Indeed."

Mariel: "Did she end up getting in trouble for it?"

Tir: "Oh yes. And then Starfleet Intelligence snatched her up. I haven't kept in touch with her since the Academy, but I've seen her name floating around."

T'Pia: "There is a relatively high present of SFI at the Heart"

Tir nods, "I believe that's where I saw her name come up once or twice."

T'Pia: "Out of curiosity alone Sir, may I ask her name?"

Tir: "Glen Victoria. Or was it the other way around? I believe she's a Lieutenant Commander now."

T'Pia: "Glen... Glen... oh wait, yes! I'm sure I've heard that name before. I think she was on the Latenter"

Mariel: "You know her, Pia?"

T'Pia: "Not exactly. But when we were on the Forge and had some interactions with that ship, there would be comms back and forth and I recall the name being mentioned to my mother in the passing of comms!"

Mariel: "Oooh. You do know quite a few people though! No wonder the XO came here to greet us personally."

T'Pia: "I don't get it. How does my knowing people appeal to someone else?"

Mariel: "If you have a big network, it means you're popular. Which means being on your good side can lead to introductions to these other people who might be important. So even though you're still a cadet, everyone wants to know you for who you know!"

T'Pia: "Huh... I was always more used to everyone being interested in my mother, and me being in the background I suppose"

Mariel: "Well, your mother is part of the people you know! But I think you know more than just your mother now, with how prominent her whole crew is. And you grew up with these people."

T'Pia: "But the Forge is not the only ship full of such esteemed officers thats here now. Speaking of, Commander - how is your Captain now? I have not heard any more since that incident but I hope he is faring well in the wake of it all"

Tir nods, "Everything's been going well on the Challenger since that incident. There's been hurdles in the protomatter project, as there are with any project, but nothing quite as dramatic as what you witnessed. Just the usual issues you'd run into in a scientific endeavor like this."

T'Pia: "Well I know we're just here as passengers, but if it's possible I would love to get a better look at the project! Might even get some ideas to help on our own!"

Tir: "I heard you were working on the Coalition ship design project, and you have some firsthand experience inside those Horde-ravaged areas, don't you? I'm sure you can have some useful input on the protomatter project."

T'Pia: "I don't know about that, I barely know anything about protomatter. But I would love to try! Oh, sorry Mariel. Getting carried away with engineering ideas! I hope this isn't too boring for you"

Mariel chuckles, "Don't worry, I'm a Science cadet remember! I like discussing ideas and concepts. Though I have to admit I only have the basic understanding of protomatter..."

Tir: "Yes, it's still classified as highly dangerous material and not something you can experiment with in an Academy lab."

T'Pia: "Then we can both learn about the project while we are here! Oh, um, assuming that's ok with the Commander of course"

Tir: "You'll have to be supervised and I doubt our Chief Science Officer will let you work firsthand with the protomatter, but we should be able to arrange for you to see the project labs and give some input. But first..." he stops at a door, tapping the panel to open it. "Here are your quarters. It's the stardard cadet rooms we have on board. While we do have open guest quarters, we decided it was more appropriate to assign you these instead. Cadet T'Pia may have bailed out our Captain, but we don't want to seem like we're giving you too much preferential treatment. Wouldn't want to make everyone else jealous," he chuckles

T'Pia: "That's fine Sir! We're just happy to be along for the ride. Though that does raise an interesting question, do you host any cadets on board right now?"

Tir: "We usually do, but due to the nature of the protomatter research, we don't have any on board for the duration of our current assignment."

T'Pia: "Oh well, that's one less thing to do at least. But still, while I can't speak for Mariel of course I would very much like to make the most of my time on board and help out wherever possible"

Mariel: "I do too! I like to help and get practical experience. Kayleigh and I miiight be slightly infamous for it..."

T'Pia snickers, "/might/ be..."

Tir: "Do I even want to know..."

T'Pia: "It's actually very impressive! Much moreso than my little adventure here before"

T'Pia reveals her true purpose in putting emphasis on Mari's comment. Focal deflection

Mariel: "Hey!"

T'Pia: "What? Based on the number of merits, let alone the public new articles, you two have been involved with much more than I"

Mariel: "I guess we have done quite a bit...still, this is your moment coming back to the Challenger!"

Tir chuckles, "Maybe I'll ask about your adventures while you're here, Cadet Tanglao. Anyways, let us know if you need anything, and I'll speak to our Science and Engineering chiefs about -

Mariel - giving you some duty shifts to keep you occupied on the journey, since you're eager to help out."

T'Pia: "Thank you Commander"

—

After settling into their quarters, the pair decide to go and relax in ten forward knowing it to be the heart of life on the ship

T'Pia steps inside looking around and taking in the moderate atmosphere before approaching the bar to get a drink. She tries to get the bartenders attention, assuming they didn't have it the moment they entered

Mariel follows in, looking around, "Wow. This looks almost exactly like the simulations of the classic Galaxy-class lounges."

The bartender, a female Ferengi, makes her way over to the cadets, "That's right! Captain likes it this way, he spent quite a lot of his career as Chief Engineer on one after all! Most modern refits of these older designs don't have things quite as similar. And the rest of the Challenger can be quite different from one of the old Galaxies, or so I hear them say! Anyways, what can I get you?"

T'Pia hrms, "Do you have any specialities? We're only here for a while so it makes sense to experience something unique to this ship"

The Ferengi laughs, "Unique to this ship? Well, we don't run our own breweries or anything, but let's see..." she looks under the shelf and digs out a bottle

T'Pia leans in to admire the ornate bottle, "Oooh... that's beautiful!"

Ferengi: "Still not quite sure how to pronounce it. We got it from the Lukari we're working with. It's not something you'll find in large quantities around the Sphere, where you two must come from, right?"

T'Pia smiles and nods, "Yes! We're cadets from the annex there" she looks to Mari, "What do you think, want to try the Lukari... whatever it is?"

Ferengi: "I've had some myself. It's pretty good. At least for Ferengi tastes, but we have good tastes. Otherwise how do you think people like Quark run such a successful bar franchise? You can attract all the customers you want with advertisements, but you need more than just business sense to keep customers at a bar!"

T'Pia: "Is that a rule of acquisition?"

The Ferengi chuckles as she takes out two glasses and starts pouring the drink, "Not yet! Maybe someday, but it's a bit specific to our particular field."

T'Pia: "Well thank you, anyway!" she takes a glass and sniffs it before taking a cautious sip, "I know it might not be truly unique to the ship, but didn't really expect anything to be! It's just nice to get a feel for a ship while on board. Especially since I never got to enjoy being here last time"

Mariel takes a sip of the drink too. It has a very sweet and fizzy taste to it

Ferengi: "Last time? Oooh, you must be the Cadet who exposed that whole infiltrator business."

T'Pia nods, smacking her lips at the sweet flavour, "Mhmm! Guilty as charged there"

Mariel smiles and nods as well, "Definitely a good pick!"

Ferengi: "So, what brings you two on board? Here to save us again?"

T'Pia: "I certainly hope not! I mean... like, I hope there's nothing the ship needs saving from..."

The Ferengi chuckles, "Not that I know of, and I hear plenty of things in this lounge. You know the one you exposed, Lieutenant Hall?"

T'Pia nods attentively, sipping more of her drink

Ferengi: "There was always something strange about her. Not enough for me to suspect she was some kind of enemy spy, of course, otherwise I would've let the Captain know. She still behaved like a Starfleet officer, but she seemed...distressed. Whenever the crew was celebrating something, a successful mission or news of the end of a conflict or something, she was never into it. When we were in a crisis she was as dedicated as anyone else, but outside of it, she was a disturbed individual."

T'Pia: "Disturbed is a bit of a leap just because someone is antisocial though, isn't it? I mean, if we'd have made that jump with Kay when she first turned up..." she looks to Mari, "Although, I guess we sort of did" she chuckles

Ferengi: "Oh no, it wasn't antisocial. I've seen plenty of introverted individuals of all extents. Lieutenant Hall socialized with people and seemed normal when she was in here most of the time. It's just celebrating successes specifically where she behaved a little strange. Almost like she was expecting something bad to happen again immediately, being unusually pessimistic. You know what I mean? It's like she never treated a win like a win."

T'Pia: "Because in her eyes, they weren't really victories, I suppose"

Ferengi: "Yeah, something like that."

—

Shavi and Kayleigh's shuttle touches down on a landing pad in Narris II's capital city. Unlike the cities on most homeworlds, it does not have quite as many towering skyscrapers, being a far newer colony and not the original polluted homeworld of the Orions. However, the towers which are present are clearly built in the elegant High Orion style, with obvious effort put into the aesthetic of not just the building itself, but how it fits in with the wider cityscape

Shavi steps out of the shuttle first as the hatch opens. Kayleigh follows her out, looking around, "I had heard that the colonization here was on par with the pace of development at New Romulus, but it appears it may likely even surpass it"

Shavi: "Well, we may have had a little bit of a head start on the Romulans in this regard. The OSN is new, and the city did grow exponentially, but we had the advantage of not completely building a capital from scratch. There was Orion settlement in Narris before the OSN chose to be based out here."

Kayleigh: "Oh right, of course. Still, it is an impressive sight to behold"

Shavi nods, "That it is! Narris used to be a pleasure and resort world, like Risa. It was a retreat for High Orions, and eventually many of them just started living here permanently as the homeworld got worse and worse. That's why it was chosen to be the OSN capital, because many of the founding Tabadin already had homes here."

Kayleigh: "A logical choice" she looks around again, "The Orion Risa... that is quite the powerful image of suggestion"

Shavi: "Well, it wasn't quite an Orion Risa, that was just the best comparison that came to mind! Risa's a vacation spot that's meant to receive guests. Narris was more of a private retreat, which is probably why most outsiders haven't heard of it before now."

Kayleigh: "Still, it puts quite the different context on the place. Also much more privilege to outsiders like me being afforded the opportunity of seeing it for ourselves. So, to your grandfathers inn first?"

Shavi nods, "There's a public transport station by the landing pads which should take us to the right region."

Kayleigh: "Then I shall follow your lead"

As Shavi begins leading the way, Kayleigh feels a brief, slightly chilly breeze, which definitely would've been worse if she was wearing beachwear

Kayleigh shivers slightly, "It is evident that the traditional attire I researched was evolved in a climate different to this one. I should have taken that into consideration"

Shavi giggles, "That's another reason I thought you should probably get changed, but I wanted you to experience it for yourself! The climate isn't as different as you think though, otherwise High Orions wouldn't have picked this as a retreat! It's just that this particular part of Narris is currently in winter season. Even in winter it doesn't get /too/ cold though, so summer or even spring and fall is perfect for beachwear."

Kayleigh: "I see. Well then, I thank you for the consideration"

Shavi smiles, "You're welcome. See, everyone else is dressed like this, too!"

Indeed, as they begin to approach the public transporter, they notice that many people are dressed similarly to Shavi. There are plenty of people wearing skirts, short sleeves or even tank tops, but it is usually combined with a more covered garment, like long pants for those wearing short sleeves or long sleeve jacket combined with skirt like Shavi. There's virtually no one that are dressed like a classic Orion dancer, though Kayleigh can see that a few people have much more revealing clothes beneath a jacket

Kayleigh: "Fascinating" she observes those around her, Orions and others alike assuming there are many, or even any, non-Orions around

Kayleigh is not surprised to find that the majority of people present are Orions, though non-Orions can be seen as well. A Klingon materializes from one of the transporters, heading over to the landing platforms. A group of Denobulans can be seen heading towards the platforms on foot as well, and as they get in queue for the transporters, they see a member of the Regulator species without her suit in front of them

Kayleigh joins Shavi in the queue, "I was not sure what to expect when you mentioned public transport"

Shavi: "Yeah, this is a newer city. Even though the foundations were here before the OSN, we still have a full modern transportation system, and not those trams or trains you can still find in very historical cities."

Kayleigh: "Has much of the cities layout been designed with modern aesthetics and functionality in mind?"

Shavi nods, "There were High Orion villas on Narris II dating back to the 23rd century, but this city was only built at the end of the 24th, so everything here is very modern, aesthetically and functionally. This was originally a large resort complex. Amusingly enough I think it was actually an attempt to make something like what they have on Risa here on Narris, not quite as a vacation spot for people across the galaxy, but a cheaper and accessible retreat for average Orions with the homeworld deteriorating more and more."

Kayleigh: "I wonder if any of those villas are still standing. It would be quite fascinating to see" she notes, stepping on to the pad as their turn arrives

The two materialize in an indoor transporter pad in what seems to be a large room leading out to a hallway

She leads the way out into a large, ornate hotel lobby, "Funny you should ask. Well, this isn't exactly one of the original villas, but..."

Kayleigh perks a curious brow, "But...?"

Shavi: "Well, this is one of the original resort buildings, before this became the capital city of the OSN!"

Kayleigh: "And this is your grandfather's inn? Impressive" she notes, looking around and assuming of course that the entire facility is the family inn now

Shavi nods, "This isn't the whole old resort of course, just one old building of it. My grandfather used to run a club back in the day, and my grandmother studied finances and accounting. They were part of the old guard who stood up against the Syndicate long before the OSN was a formal thing. When the OSN started settling down on Narris, they decided to retire, and they had the perfect skills for this. So Tabadi Delandria gave them this place."

Kayleigh: "I do not know much about that resistance against the Syndicate, only how significant it was as a turning point. But from what little I know, such a reward seems very fitting"

Shavi nods, "They weren't Tabadi Mysti or anything, but they've done their part for the OSN, and the Tabadin recognize it!" while she bypasses the reception desk and makes directly for further into the inn. As they cross the lobby, Kayleigh spots a significantly higher proportion of non-Orions here, no surprise given that the place is intended to provide offworld visitors with accommodations

Kayleigh: "Given that it is off-season here, I am somewhat surprised to see so many offworld visitors still"

Shavi: "If this was still primarily a vacation resort, that would be unusual, but it's the capital of the OSN now. A lot of people are here for business or trade. Not to mention cultural tourism. Plus, it's not that cold in winter here, actually a more preferable time for some species to visit!"

Kayleigh: "That does make sense, thank you for clarifying"

Shavi leads the way into a large bar and lounge area, many more non-Orion visitors can be seen relaxing

As they approach the bar, an Orion male steps out from behind it. Like all Orion males, he is big and broad, easily towering over Kayleigh and probably as wide as three of her. However, while the Orion is large, he's clearly no longer in his prime. He has a bit of a beer belly and his visage shows signs of age as well, akin to a human in his fifties

Orion Male: "Shavi!" he spreads his arms wide and Shavi grins, running in for the hug, "Tahissidar!"

Orion Male: "Good to see you again! We don't get to see you enough back here on Narris!" His gaze turns to Kayleigh, "And who's this friend you brought along?"

Kayleigh bows her head slightly in greeting, deciding it's better not to try and mimic the running hug, "I am Cadet Kayleigh"

Orion Male: "Ahh, a former Starfleet Cadet at the Academy then! I'm Himmul." He reaches out a hand before pausing, "Vulcan, right?"

Kayleigh nods, taking the hand, "Half, to be precise. Half Human. But full cadet still, no former. Which I thought to be implied by my introduction?"

Himmul chuckles, "I'm not even sure what a half cadet would be. Does Starfleet have something like that? But yes, I was just asking because some Vulcans don't like physical contact. Guessing you're fine with it, with the half human part!" He shakes her hand

Kayleigh: "I was raised in Starfleet surrounded by many non-Vulcanoid species. So I have grown accepting of such customs

Himmul: "Right, that makes sense! Well it's good to have a former cadet of Shavi's here with us! You two are close friends, I take it!"

Kayleigh perks a brow, giving an uncertain glance to Shavi and back, "Um... as I said before, I am a full cadet, there is no former to it"

Himmul: "Hm? I didn't say you were a half cadet..."

Shavi frowns, "Oh it must be the new translation program...I'll look into it tonight."

Kayleigh: "Hm... that seems like a distinct possibility. Translator issues aside, it is a pleasure to meet you Himmul"

Himmul: "A pleasure to meet you too, full Cadet Kayleigh," he says with a chuckle. "Will you be staying here for a little?"

Kayleigh: "I believe that is the intention" she nods

Himmul takes out a PADD and starts tapping away, "Let me get you a room then...you prefer higher up, or something lower? Ocean view or city view?"

Kayleigh hrms, "I suppose a higher city view would be the most aesthetically pleasing. But since my presence here is at the courtesy of Shavi then convenience for her should be the deciding factor"

Shavi: "Higher city will certainly be a nice view!"

Himmul: "Alright. Room...2516 then." He taps his PADD. "There. I hope you enjoy your visit to our worshipped city, then!"

Kayleigh: "Thank you, that is my intention"

Shavi turns to lead the way: "I'll show Kay to our room and catch up with you later, Tahissidar!"

Kayleigh follows, "Tahissidar... a term of endearment? I am not familiar with it"

Shavi: "It just means grandfather. I guess it's a more informal term, but the translator should be picking up on it. I definitely need to look into it..."

Kayleigh: "Does your grandfather speak natively in a local dialect perhaps? Though, no... were that so then I would not hear the untranslated term from you..."

Shavi: "No, but I added an update into the Annex systems for Orion dialects. It's a project I've been working on for some time because the standard Starfleet matrix doesn't pick up so well on the rougher Orion languages. I put the update through before we set out because I thought it might be helpful for our visit here. But it looks like there's a few kinks I need to work out still..."

Shavi: "Don't worry, I'll put out a patch for it tonight for you! Hopefully the rest of the Annex don't have any visits from the OSN in the meantime..." she chuckles. "But worst case they could just roll back to the old matrix!"

Kayleigh: "Glitches aside, it is still highly impressive for a cadet to do such a thing. As a project maybe, but actual integration is quite the accomplishment"

Shavi: "I'm not the only one working on the project! I'm just building off the work of Commander Lendaria, for the most part. She's the real genius behind it! When we were on the Valley Forge, I had a chance to talk to her about it. She started the project but she doesn't have much time to work on it these days since she's taken over command of the ship. So I've been refining it and getting it ready."

Kayleigh: "I heard that she was skilled in communications but had no idea that she did something like that. Especially given she seems to never use a translator herself"

Shavi: "Because she's good enough to do it manually!"

Kayleigh: "It is impressive, certainly"

Shavi leads the way into a lift, "Level 25."

Kayleigh: "I noted before that you said our room. Do you not have a room of your own here?"

The sides of the lift is transparent, and as it begins to ascend, Kayleigh can see a view of the city behind them

Shavi: "No, I don't stay here long enough to have my own room. When I was little we stayed with my grandparents for a bit here, but as I got older, my mother resumed her service with the OSN and I grew up with my parents on ships. When we do come to Narris, we just get a room here. My mother's parents run the inn anyways, so it's not like it costs us anything!"

Kayleigh: "I see. Well I hope this room selection is a fitting choice for you then. As I eluded before, I do not wish my presence to inconvenience you at all"

Shavi smiles, "No inconvenience at all! Level 25 cityside is a great view, one of my favourites, in fact. I think you'll like it, too."

Kayleigh: "Then I am glad to have elicited a favourable outcome"

The lift arrives and Shavi leads the way out, "Here we are!"

—

At the heart of the Federation, Earth, ADM Bishop works away begrudgingly in his office eager to finish this annual review at HQ so he can get back to his posting. Outside his office, a yeoman sits a reception desk. He looks up unimpressed by the sight of two out of place cadets standing before him.

Yeoman, "Right... so you're the Admirals family, of course you are. Because there's nothing obviously wrong with that picture" he points out TP's ears, "Come on now girls, you really must try harder than that - it would have been much more believable if you said that you-" he points to Mari, "- were the errant daughter. Now run along and keep the pranks to the academy please"

T'Pia: "I... but... I really am his daughter! Just check the files!"

The yeoman sighs, begrudgingly indulging, "Alright, alright, I'll play along. Just... take a seat there"

T'Pia looks to Mari and obliges by taking a seat to wait while the yeoman works

Mariel follows over, "You'd think the yeoman would know who the Admiral's daughter is..."

T'Pia: "You would think..." she fidgets. A lot

T'Pia groans after a moment, "Oh... it's no use, I will be right back. Need to visit the little Vulcans room" she stands and hurries off

Mariel watches T'Pia head off and looks back to the yeoman working

The yeoman watches over his monitor, shaking his head slightly and giving a sideways glance at the remaining lone Mari

Mariel continues waiting patiently

A moment later the yeoman sit back from his screen, "I... uh... huh. The Admiral will see you. Shockingly" he taps his console and the door opens, obliging Mari to approach

Mariel stands, "I should probably wait for Pia. I'm sure it's his daughter he's eager to see, would be awkward if some random cadet just walked in..."

A fine sentiment, but unfortunately Sam has already appeared eagerly at the door, looking Mari up and down, "Um... hello Cadet..."

Mariel stands at attention, "Admiral, sir."

Sam: "You... are not who I was led to believe was out here" he turns a scowl at the yeoman

Mariel: "No, your daughter is here! She just...stepped off..."

Mariel looks over to where T'Pia went, "Should be back anytime now..."

Sams eyes narrow, "Is that so..." turning to the yeoman, "You should know better than to fall for these pranks" and turns to head back into his office

T'Pia reappears to see this and comes bounding over, "Daaaad!" and launches a hug at him

Sam pauses and turns around, smiling as he sees Pia is actually here, "Pia!"

T'Pia: "When I heard you were here, we just had to drop by and surprise you!"

Sam: "I wasn't expecting you to be free from your classes this early. I believe the Annex here on Earth is still in full swing."

T'Pia nods, "Yeah, it's a bit of a story!" she glances and sees Mari still awkwardly standing there, "Oh! This is one of my friends from class, Cadet Mariel Tanglao"

Sam: "Apologies for thinking it was all a prank. It's good to meet you, Cadet Tanglao. Come on in," he turns to head into the office again

T'Pia gives a victorious glance towards the yeoman as they head in

Mariel follows in, taking a seat beside Pia

Sam: "So, what is the long story behind your visit. Are you here on some official training cruise?"

T'Pia: "Not exactly. A big training cruise is setting out shortly for the second years, and since it will overlap the planned holiday period some we are taking early breaks now. We're going to join one of the resettlement expeditions, so they can't exactly wait for our timetable!"

Sam: "Ahh, so that's why you're here early. How long are you going to be staying around?"

T'Pia: "We've got a few weeks, so no rushing back! What about you though? You don't normally come back to HQ at all, so I can't imagine you'll be here that long either"

Sam: "Yes, I only came back for the annual review, although I have been made aware of something going on while I'm here. I was actually just going to contact your mother about it, actually."

T'Pia tilts her head, "Mum? I can not conceive what sort of development here could affect her as a professor in the Heart annex..."

Sam: "Not her as a professor in the Annex, but her as a command-level officer in the Heart."

T'Pia: "I see. Well, I know she does have the Admiral's ear and trusts her. Do you mind if we stay while you call her? We could surprise her with a hello too!" she giggles

Sam chuckles, "You sure could, but I was hoping to ask her for her knowledge of the local situation, and maybe to get an expert shipped over. But now that you're here..."

T'Pia: "hm?" she looks to Mari, in the vain hope she understands

Mariel: "I have as much idea as you do..."

Sam: "Last night, Starfleet Security intercepted a pair of figures beaming down to a public transport site in Paris from a passenger ship in orbit. The transporter system apparently identified them as a hostile species you've been dealing with on the rim called the Diteans. Apparently they've also tried to infiltrate the Heart."

T'Pia nods, "There's been a few instances now. If the transporter system flagged them, why did it not divert them into custody as well?"

Sam: "It did, to the local security office. The security officers stationed there freed them on the grounds that they were no threat, despite the Federation being formally in a state of war with them now. When news reached higher ups at security, the infiltrators were quickly found and detained again on the streets of Paris. They're being held here at HQ now, under high security and strict contact protocols."

T'Pia: "That is a relief. Two rogue Diteans on Earth could have caused no end of problems"

Sam nods, "That's why I wanted to contact your mother. The immediate threat's been contained. But enemy forces on Earth is concerning, to say the least. No one here has ever dealt with Diteans. The command officers who know what they are only have reports from the rim to go on, no firsthand experience at all. We suspect the security officers in Paris freed them because they fell under the influence the Diteans can apparently exert, but we have no idea to what extent."

T'Pia: "Oh right, yeah! That's a thing isn't it... Mum might know more then, I've only really heard of the few instances where they've been uncovered at the Heart" she looks to Mari

Mariel nods, "I was there when we first found one trying to infiltrate the Heart. And I've been keeping up with the reports ever since. The ones available publically, at least. Apparently it's not full on psionic influence like the Horde. They're just really really charming. I think the term was...empathic metamorph?"

Sam: "That sounds familiar."

T'Pia: "Mum might know more. As Mari said, we only have access to the public data there"

Sam: "I'll give her a call then, and you can give her a surprise greetings."

T'Pia beams, "Yay!"

Sam smiles, "Come here, then."

Sam taps his console, getting a call to Keelah in the Heart annex through the network of numerous subspace buoys

T'Pia hangs just out of view while they get the introductions in

After a short delay from the subspace lag, Keelah appears on the computer screen

Keelah gives the screen a dubious look, "Sam? This is a most unexpected call" she squints, "And you are not in your usual office, what happened?"

Sam: "Oh, I'm just at HQ for the annual review. Something is happening though, which is why I wanted to call you."

Keelah hrms, "I assumed as much. Wait, you are at HQ? Then you should know-"

T'Pia pounces in behind Sam, "Hi mum! Dad already knows we're here!"

Keelah smiles, "Ah, well then that is one matter covered" she refocuses on Sam, "But I do not suppose you called simply to tell me that Pia had found you"

Sam chuckles, "I wish that were the case. She and her friend did happen to find me just before I finished this report and was going to call you, though. How are things on the rim?"

Keelah, "Well I have to say that it has suddenly become rather quiet and peaceful actually..." she flashes a glance at TP with a slight smirk

T'Pia gasps, "Hey! We're not /that/ bad as a class!"

Keelah chuckles, "I tease, of course" and sighs, "Honestly Sam? It reminds me of our time stationed on DS13, before I got my commission. This is the new frontier of our borders, and to call them more grey and fuzzy than ever would be an understatement. Between these infiltrator people lurking in the shadows with their future stealth ships, and the multiverses centering here, and now we have the Ditean in an official state of war. I am starting to appreciate the long quiet spells we had on our long voyage out here, that is for certain"

Sam: "Ah yes, the peace and quiet of longer journeys through space. I often miss being on those myself. The downsides of settling for a more stationary position, I suppose. But yes, it's related to these situations you've been having on the rim that I'm calling."

Keelah, "Am I to take from that there has been another incident? At your station, or... no, then if you wished to consult you would so whilst there. Something must have happened at Earth"

Sam: "Not an infiltrator incident, no. We already know that situation goes far beyond the rim. What happened here was more...unexpected."

Keelah perks a brow, "A new incursion from a different reality then? Or is it the Diteans?"

Sam: "The Diteans. Two of them tried to sneak onto Earth last night."

Keelah leans in, "They are growing bold it would seem. We had no idea then had even ventured that far coreward"

Sam nods, "No one here expected it, either. All the command-level officers have read the reports from the rim, but the rank and file haven't been briefed on the Diteans at all. The security officers who first approached the Diteans in captivity ended up falling under their charm and letting them free. They were recaptured quickly, but we're not sure what this means. Security still hasn't sent someone else to question them yet. I thought it would be a good idea to check if it could be possible to obtain a specialist from Torin's command."

Keelah hrms, "That is a good question. Honestly I am not certain who dealt with them here specifically, I think most of our expertise is out in the field. The Yorktown is here so Ali may know more, but I know they are working towards a mission critical departure. I can speak with Enelya if you like, but I would not anticipate any significant support. Guidance and reference, perhaps. But not support"

Sam nods, "I suspected as much."

Mariel chimes in, "We're here! We haven't exactly been on the front lines, but I was there when the Diteans were caught in the Heart!"

Keelah offers a sympathetic smile, "I will speak to Enelya without delay and get- is that? Of course, Cadet Tanglao, I assume?"

Mariel nods, "Yes, that's me Professor. Sorry for butting in...I just thought that since we're at Earth already, we might be able to help out. We're not exactly specialists, but I think we know more about the Diteans than anyone here."

Keelah, "Of that, there is no doubt. Well Sam, you appear to already have the best of the available personnel with you. I will still request any additional reference documents and guidance be forwarded from Torin's office"

Sam: "Of course. Don't worry, I won't put them in any danger. They'll be in an advisory capacity at most, assuming you're sure you want to use your vacation time to help, that is."

T'Pia: "I don't really know much about these Diteans, but I'm always happy to help Dad, you know that!" turns to Mariel, "He makes a good point though Mari, do you want to do this?"

Mariel: "Well, we're already here, and if the Diteans are planning something nefarious, it's not good for anyone! So I think it's a logical choice to help. Oh wait, you're not Kay, I don't have to justify everything with logic, I forget," she giggles. "But you get what I mean!"

T’Pia smiles, "A logical conclusion is always welcome!" she looks to Sam, "Well Dad, you've got our support!"

Keelah smiles, "Then I will leave you in the capable hands of our cadets. Pia, see you soon" she gives a little wave

Sam: "Stay safe out there."

T'Pia returns the wave before the comm ends

Sam: "Well, if you're sure about helping, I'll send you to Captain Asker. His office should be..." he checks his computer, "Building E, room 212."

T'Pia: "He is heading the investigation?"

Sam nods, "That's right. I'll let him know you're on the way to advise. Stay safe, and just advise. If there turns out to be any more Diteans, Security will handle it."

T'Pia: "We'll do what we can Dad, don't worry! Well, by 'we' I mostly mean Mariel... but yeah!"

Mariel smiles, "I'm sure you'll be a good help too!"

T'Pia: "I'll try!"

Mariel: "Over to Building E then, unless you want to talk with your father some more while we're here?"

T'Pia: "Well, we shouldn't disrupt his day further. But... maybe we can catch up later?"

Sam nods and smiles, "Don't worry, I'll be around for a few days still. We'll have plenty of time to catch up."

T'Pia beams, "Sounds good then! I'll let you know when we're done then"

Sam: "Good luck, Cadets."