ST:UNI208 Pt. II | "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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After a good night's sleep, Shavi and Kay make their down into the main inn for breakfast

Kayleigh sits and peruses a menu, "I am not familiar with most of these things"

Shavi: "I'll help you out! Orion cuisine can be very diverse and complicated. I hear a lot about how humans have a million different types of cuisines that can be nothing like each other, it can be quite similar with us too. What do you usually like to eat? More mild Vulcan food, or are your taste buds more human?"

Kayleigh hrms, "Well... I might not have such a wild palette as a Human, but I do prefer to at least try new things. As long as they are not overwhelmingly pungent, I can normally handle them"

Shavi considers, "High Orion cuisine could be a good fit. There's usually not much overly pungent foods in High Orion cuisine. There's also West Islands cuisine, which is generally quite mild, but it has a heavy seafood focus. Oh right, you're not vegetarian, are you?"

Kayleigh shakes her head, "I have no particular preference towards meat, but am not adverse to it. Is there a particular speciality of your grandfathers, or this inn?"

Shavi nods, "Well, our main chef's heritage comes from the Shurani Highlands, but he's trained in classical High Orion cuisine. Not sure Highland cuisine would fit your taste that well," she chuckles. "It can be quite spicy. He does have an understudy whose heritage comes from the West Islands, so we have pretty good West Islands cuisine. One of our other chefs is also very well known for Delzu cuisine, which our Klingon visitors really enjoy. I...have a feeling that won't be your style, either."

Kayleigh: "Interesting. I think I should perhaps start with something more tame to gauge things. So what would be a suitable breakfast item here from that classical cuisine?" she spins the menu around

Shavi takes a look, "You'll probably go with the Vesivan breakfast combo. It's a traditional High Orion breakfast with history dating back to the old Tabadin of the Sailing Age."

Kayleigh: "The Vesivan combo, very well. That is me taken care of, you?"

Shavi: "I'll take the Massimi combo."

Kayleigh taps at the menu to send the orders through, then sets it down, "Done. So do you have any plans for today?"

Shavi: "I was thinking to take you around town. I've been through here before, so it's going to be more fun with someone else. We could visit the Civic Centre, not much to see there without official business, but you might like the architecture and artwork there. We could stop by the Orion Heritage Museum but it could be better to save that for another day since there's a lot to see. The main shopping centre is right between the Civic Centre and the museum though. So we could stop by there, and knowing you, maybe swing by again when we visit the museum some other day?" she smirks

Kayleigh: "While I certainly would benefit from some shopping sooner rather than later, we do not have to rush straight there. Do you not have anything to do for yourself though? You already had this trip planned after all, and I would not wish to monopolize your time now that we are here"

Shavi: "Oh I'm mainly here to see my grandparents, and I'm doing plenty of that staying in their inn here! I do like to roam around the city, but I know almost every corner of it now. Still do enjoy the aesthetics, but it's more fun showing someone like you around who's visiting for the first time!"

Kayleigh: "Very well then, I shall indulge. Just please let me know if need to divert from tourism for your own ends" she leans back and thinks, "Since I have no other context to judge by at present, I am inclined to follow your suggestion of walking through the town and getting to know the area, and maybe some basic shopping so I have something else to wear". Kit jumps up beside her and yips excitedly. Kayleigh looks to Kit and back, "And perhaps a park or somewhere that Kit can run around"

Shavi: "The Civic Centre's located right next to a park, so that should be perfect!"

A waitress steps up to the table, delivering Kayleigh's order

Kit yips happily at Shavi, and curls up at Kay's side when the food arrives. Along with the cake, she sets down a dark green drink in a coffee cup. Kayleigh thanks her and looks to the food, sampling the drink first which reminds Kayleigh of coffee, though it is sweeter and has a taste that resembles soy milk more than coffee with regular milk. She hrms, "Quite refreshing"

Shavi: "It's a traditional Orion caffeinated beverage, found all across Orion society. My combo should come with one too, and speaking of which..."

The waitress returns with Shavi's dish and another cup while Kayleigh starts tucking in to her cake which is nice and sweet, in a mild and not overbearing way.

Shavi picks up and takes a bite of one of her sticks, "In High Orion and a number of other cultures, breakfast is normally sweet foods. There's a few exceptions, like the Delzu cuisine I mentioned earlier, but more often than not you'll find Orions prefer sweets as the first meal of the day."

Kayleigh: "Starting the day on a high, as it were"

Shavi nods, "Exactly! Hence the caffeinated drink and sweet food! Provides you with plenty of energy to go about the day."

Kayleigh: "Quite the logical approach really. I am impressed"

Shavi: "Vulcans aren't the only ones who can be logical!"

After finishing their breakfast, Kayleigh and Shavi return to the transporter in the inn. They materialize in the midst of the busy city…

Kayleigh looks around, "Well, I am glad you know where we are because I have no bearing at all right now"

Shavi points ahead to a large building across a park space, "That's the Civic Centre, the seat of Narris' civilian government. You can't use the transporters to beam right in unless you have an official visit approved, for security reasons. But, Kit wants to visit the park anyways so the public transporters suit us fine!". Kit yips and bounds around eagerly in response.

Shavi smiles, "This way!"

Kayleigh looks down, "This isn't just your vacation you know. We can't spend all of our time in the park so enjoy it while you can". Kit tilts her head and then quickly follows

Shavi leads the way into the stretch of parkland between the Civic Centre and the rest of the city

Kayleigh tags along, exploring, while Kit runs around happily

Shavi watches as Kit runs around, "Do you take her to the Sphere surface much when we're back at the Heart?"

Kayleigh: "On occasion, yes. Though I imagine not as often as she would like"

Shavi: "No wonder she's so excited. She likes natural spaces, doesn't she?"

Kayleigh: "Yes, their species is uniquely attuned to the natural environment apparently. It goes beyond a simple preference, or natural habitat. Apparently they can actually sense it, and since artificially constructed places like ships or the settlement areas of the Heart lack any real area like that, it feels quite literally alien to them. Less like you or I standing on a new world, and more like trying to stand on an Undine world or something I suppose"

Kayleigh idly starts tossing some little psionic lightning balls to Kit while she speaks, with Kit happily leaping around and catching them

Shavi watches, "Looks like you've got your powers under good control now, too."

Kayleigh: "They were right when Kit first came to me, she truly has helped me refine this control. My time at the temple is invaluable as well of course"

Shavi: "Help as in playing fetch with her, or can she actually like...teach you or something?"

Kayleigh hrms, "She does not teach in the conventional sense since we are unable to communicate"

Kit stops and looks Kay, yipping at her

Shavi: "How does it work, then?"

Kayleigh: "What? Well we are unable"

Kit bounds away, skipping around on her own some more and giving the clear impression that they communicate far more than Kay thinks

Shavi: "No, I mean, how does she help you, without communicating?"

Kayleigh: "Hm? Sorry, no I was talking to her" she throws another lightning ball at Kit, this time Kit spins around and whips her tails at it

An Orion female looking around Kay and Shavi's age steps over to them curiously: "Hello! You're another psionic, aren't you?"

Kayleigh looks up, "Greetings, and yes I have developed psionic abilities. From your phrasing, I take that you have a similar experience?"

The Orion nods, "I got them back when people all over started suddenly developing them, yeah."

Kayleigh: "As most people did, yes. I apologize if this playing is a problem at all, it was not our intention to cause a scene"

Orion: "No, not at all! We don't have any rules against using psionics publically, as long as it isn't on someone else. I haven't seen someone...playing with their pet using it before, though. If that is what you're doing..."

Kayleigh: "It serves as a form of training for us both, though granted she finds far more entertainment in- hey!" she jumps and yelps at Kit who suckerpunched her with a psionic ball

Kit struts around proudly, tails all high and snooty

Kayleigh: "I get it, I get it. Sorry!" she resigns, throwing another ball for Kit

The Orion giggles, "I'll leave you to your training then! Just curious I sensed psionics as I was taking a walk around!"

Kayleigh: "It is no disruption, I have not encountered anyone in this position outside of the Heart yet so your perspective is actually quite intriguing"

Orion: "In what position? Running into you while you're practicing, or being able to sense your psionics?"

Kayleigh: "Simply being an awakened psionic"

Orion: "Outside the Heart...wait, that's the new Iconian Sphere thing where you're training psionics, isn't it?"

Shavi: "Not just psionics, but yes."

Kayleigh: "I do not believe it qualifies as new in any sense of the term. Although... since it was built towards the end of that era, it is arguably newer than most other spheres..." she nods in approval, "Quite the intuitive assessment" she praises the Orion

Orion: "Oh I meant new as in newly discovered, but that works too! I heard about it because our flagship and a few others are over there. And I did hear about it when I first started developing my abilities and people where going there to train."

Kayleigh: "But you elected not to join them?"

Orion: "I signed up with the navy. They have a Lethean instructor who's been mentoring me. My talents turn out to be similar to what Letheans can do, so he's a good mentor."

Kayleigh: "I see, well that does make sense. Your Navy has it's training academy here I assume?"

Orion: "Not in the city, but on Narris II, yes. Today's one of our off days, so I transported over here."

Kayleigh: "I had the pleasure of visiting your Navy's command ship, the Thana was it? The Tabadi who commands it was quite the admirable character"

Orion: "Yes, that's the one in the Sphere I was talking about! You've actually been on board and met the Tabadi? Wow."

Kayleigh: "Is that unusual?"

Orion: "Well, I suppose not. It is a flagship and designed to be impressive for diplomacy, so it's not really a surprise for them to receive many visitors. It's just that I've heard and read a lot about that ship. It's like your Federation's famous...Enterprise, was it?"

Kayleigh: "That is the Starfleet's flagship, yes. Though I can not compare myself since I have never visited that ship"

Shavi: "I think she means from the legacy, not the actual design of the ships, which would be a comparable example!"

Kayleigh: "Ah, I see. Then yes in terms of status it is indeed the most comparable"

Orion: "It was Tabadi Lorri that you met, right? The current commander of the Thana?"

Kayleigh: "Yes, it was"

The Orion points to a statue a short distance away at the centre of the park, "See that statue? That's built in honour of Tabadi Mysti, the previous and first commander of the Thana."

Kayleigh peers over, then looks to Shavi, "We should pay our respects while we are here, no? I think Commander Lendaria would appreciate it too"

Shavi nods and smiles, "A good idea. Come on, then." She looks to the other Orion. "A pleasure to meet you, by the way! I'm Shavinnia, and this is my friend, Kayleigh."

Orion: "Pleasure to meet you both too. I'm Vinune."

Kayleigh inclines her head to the stranger, "A pleasure, Vinune". Kit bounds around and yips a hello too

Vinune smiles at Kit, "And good to meet you as well!" She leans over to give a pat

Kit welcomes it, brushing up against Vinune's legs. Vinune fusses with Kit a little before standing, "Well, I should leave you to it. Enjoy your visit, you two!"

Kayleigh: "You too" she offers in parting

After spending some time in the park, the two cross over to the Civic Centre

Shavi: "Here we are! One of the best examples of High Orion architecture in the city."

Kayleigh: "It really does stand out. Quite impressive"

Shavi smiles, "I thought you'd like it! You can see some design similarities with the Thana, different obviously because you don't build a starship the same way you build a skyscraper, but it's the same general type of aesthetic!"

Kayleigh: "Yes, it has been very interesting to see how those same aesthetics have applied to architecture"

Shavi: "Want to take a look inside? They should let us look around!"

Kayleigh turns to Shavi, "I thought visitation was through special invitation only?"

Shavi: "Only for transporter access. We can head in through the front door and take a look around from the ground floor."

Kayleigh: "Very well then, if it is alright then it would be logical to visit while we are here"

Shavi nods, "Up we go then!"

Kayleigh follows, glancing to Kit, "Stay close in here. And no more lightning balls for now, we do not want to leave a bad impression". Kit whines and hugs Kay's legs. Kayleigh: "Don't give me that, we can play more later". Kit yips happily and trots along beside her

Kayleigh of course, totally can't communicate with Kit. Nope

Shavi leads the way up to the foor doors and through. The door frame is an automated scanner arch which lights up as they pass through. Inside is a huge elegant lobby with a large circular reception desk in the centre

Around the lobby are a variety of holographic decorations which swirl and move about. Throughout the area also runs a water system, creating artificial waterfalls and fountains all connected with the same water

Kayleigh takes it all in, "The exterior established a level of expectation. It is... satisfying to see that the interior does not disappoint"

Shavi smiles, "They definitely went all out here, this is the centre of the capital after all! Ships heading out to meet new people like the Thana might be a little more important, but places like this need to leave a strong impression too."

Kayleigh: "That they do, and it certainly does"

A pair of Orion males in OSN ground forces uniform step out from one side of the lobby, making their way over to the two cadets

Kayleigh turns her attention to the approaching pair

Shavi turns to the males too, "Can I help you two?"

Etas Ukto: "Just a routine check. We picked up an unidentified lifeform passing through that isn't on any of our records," he peers over at Kit. "That your pet?"

Kayleigh: "Companion might be a more apt term, but yes she is with me"

Etas Ukto: "Companion? Is she sentient, then?"

Kayleigh: "Yes, though juvenile"

Etas Ukto: "So you're her...energy shield?"

Kayleigh perks a brow, "I-... um, what?"

Etas Ukto: "You're acting as the energy shield for this juvenile being?"

Kayleigh: "I am afraid I still do not follow" she looks to Shavi, "More translation issues, or am I missing some cultural context to what I am hearing as energy shield?"

Shavi frowns, "Oh no. I thought I'd worked out all the kinks with the translator..."

Kayleigh: "Can you assist in clearing this up at all? I do not wish to annoy them"

Shavi nods, "Sorry. We're having some translator issues. But yes, my friend and her companion isn't going to be a problem for anyone. We're just here to look around."

Etas Ukto: "Might we ask where you're visiting from?"

Kayleigh: "We are Starfleet cadets stationed out of the annex at the Heart of Unity"

Shavi nods, "I'm Shavinnia. I have a citizenship profile with the OSN that you can check."

The Jul Ukto taps a PADD before giving his superior a nod, "She checks out."

The Etas Ukto nods, "Sorry to bother you. Just being vigilant. Have a nice stay."

Kayleigh: "Thank you"

The two males turn and head off

Kayleigh: "It would seem you still have a little fine tuning to do. That, or 'energy shield' has a unique meaning here that I am unfamiliar with"

Shavi: "Sorry about that! What he actually meant was protector or guardian, but yeah...I need to work on that translation matrix a little more."

Kayleigh: "Ah, yes that does make sense. I will be more mindful of theee glitches moving forwards"

Shavi: "I'll make sure to clear things up if they happen again. And hopefully have the issue resolved tonight..."

Kayleigh: "Do not be disheartened, overall it is a very high success

Shavi: "Yeah, at least it's not making everyone completely incomprehensible..."

Kayleigh: "Anyway, let us return to the sightseeing" she looks around, "Can you share any significance to the displays here?"

Shavi: "Well, the holoart changes from time to time. Most of them have meaning, but I don't know all of them. That one," she points ahead. "I'm pretty sure is a traditional High Orion abstract sculpture, and that," she points to another, "was a famous piece of art made by a slave that was a symbol against slavers and the Syndicate in the pre-OSN days. A lot of the others are pieces I'm not familiar with. The water though...that has more meaning than just pretty fountains."

Kayleigh: "Oh?"

Shavi: "I don't understand all the nuances, but the way water flows inside the buildings here is done according to ancient customs and traditions. It's all based on how the rivers flow in the local area, and whether or not the local land has brought good or bad fortune. The general idea is to align it more with the local rivers if you want more of what's been happening historically in the area, and less if you want different fortune from what the region's had in the past. But that's a very simplified explanation."

Kayleigh: "Interesting, so the whole belief system - for want of a better term - is derived from local geography"

Shavi nods, "It comes from ancient farmers' superstitions on the old homeworld, but it's led to some very impressive water systems as our technology advanced, and modern Orion architects still follow it out of respect for tradition. It's not so much that we believe the superstitions but a form of pride to distinguish a true Orion architect from someone trying to copy our style. Especially High Orion style, since it's very desirable to mimic."

Kayleigh: "Some fascinating insight, I had no idea about too. Thank you Shavi"

Shavi: "Happy to help! Let's head to the shopping centre before you get too interested in the art and architecture and start asking about specifics I don't know," she chuckles

Kayleigh nods, "That sounds good"

—

Mariel and T'Pia find their way into Building E's second floor, where room 212 is marked with the label 'Captain Ozan Asker, Starfleet Security'

Mariel rings the doorbell

Asker: "Come in"

Mariel steps in, "Captain Asker. I assume Admiral Bishop's given you a heads up of our arrival?"

Asker looks up from his console, "You assume correctly Cadet. Please, sit"

Mariel nods and takes a seat, "So, how can we help with the Diteans? I hear you haven't sent anyone to speak with them yet?"

Asker nods, "Following their escape attempt, we wanted to hold fire until we could consult our... experts" he notes, scrutinizing the unlikely pair

T'Pia squirms, "Expert. Singular. And that's her, I've not really encountered them much myself"

Asker sighs, pinching his brow, "Bishop... what are you trying to do to me...?". He sighs again and looks to Mari

Mariel: "I met one briefly. Ailmna and T'Mer did the fighting, but I did see a bit of what it can do. And I've been keeping up with the reports, too!"

T'Pia: "Oh me too! I've been following the reports!"

Asker, "Ok... so what can you ladies tell me about dealing with these beings?"

Mariel: "Well, you haven't sent anyone to question them because you're afraid they might be influenced like the first security group, right?"

Asker, "We don't know for certain that is what happened, but upon reviewing the brief we can't rule it out"

Mariel nods, "it's likely, but from what I've read, their influence isn't really psionic. They use psionics to read your thoughts and feelings to manipulate you better, but even without it, they're still able to manipulate, just not as well. Apparently they're masters of picking up on facial expressions, body language, and all that too, so psionics is just one tool they have."

T'Pia chimes in, "I heard people say they are kind of like Orions in how they 'entrance' people"

Mariel: "Yeah! But they're not foolproof, though. Some people are able to resist them better than others, but if we go in aware that they're going to try and manipulate us, that should give us a pretty good advantage. And having more people along to be able to spot when they're trying to mess with our heads. One person's always easier to fool than several on the same side!"

Asker nods, "Sound precautions. We will also have the interactions monitored externally" he stands, "Good, well now with that done; I understand that you are volunteereing here during your shore leave. With that in mind, this is not an order but an... invitation. I would like the two of you to join me in the interrogation, your familiarity with these people compared to anyone else can still be valuable"

Mariel: "We'd be happy to help! We wouldn't have volunteered with Admiral Bishop if we didn't want to assist! If the Diteans have their sights on Earth, it's not good for anyone in the Federation, especially us since we have homes and family here."

Asker almost seems to smile. Almost. "Alright then, you two are with me" and leads the way out

Mariel stands and follows Captain Askerl: "Hope you don't mind being dragged into this, Pia! With me being the quote on quote expert and all..."

T'Pia: "I might not have pink hair, but I'll have you know I do still make a decent Vulcan sidekick!" she giggles

Mariel giggles, "I'm sure you do!"

T'Pia: "But seriously, you know I'm always happy to pitch in! Just like our trip out here"

Mariel smiles, "And I'm glad to have you along! Would be daunting doing this by myself..."

After a short walk, Captain Asker and the cadets reach the brig. The guard on duty gives the captain a nod, and a curious look to the two cadets

Guard: "Prisoners are secure. I'm getting more requests from Starfleet Intelligence to see them, but I've been directing them to go through the proper channels first, so no one has spoken to -

Mariel - them yet."

Asker: "Good. They may well shoehorn us aside on this, but not until we satisfied the internal security investigation at least"

The guard nods, "I'll continue trying to delay them as much as I can, sir."

Asker turns to the cadets, "Come along then"

Mariel follows along as Asker leads the way

—

After visiting the Civic Centre, Shavi leads Kayleigh back across the park, much to Kit's delight. But soon it is Kay's time to delight as they step into what could very well be her favourite place by far…

Kayleigh looks around, "This is... expansive"

Shavi: "And here is the Narris First Shopping Centre. The promenade back at the Heart took some inspiration from here, although they had to work with the Iconian framework. Which does have its own sort of elegance to it, as do the Arshai elements they added in. But this is 100% Orion aesthetic!"

Kayleigh: "I think I am beginning to see the differences now"

Shavi: "Unlike the Civic Centre, there's more to do here than just admire the architecture, though! There's no better place for Orion fashion than Narris First! And you can see the variety of styles we wear, not just the stereotypical stuff you find in searches."

Kayleigh: "Indeed. I may be required to spend significant time here. To research the nuances of these different styles"

Shavi grins, "I had a feeling you'd say something like that..."

Kayleigh keeps looking around, "We may also need a bigger shuttle..."

Shavi: "Okay...that I hadn't considered..."

Kayleigh: "For now, I must research. And find something to replace my present attire"

Shavi: "I'll come with you and give some suggestions! Most of the items at the front of the stores should be tailored for the current season on Narris, so it won't be too hard to find something appropriate."

Kayleigh: "That would be greatly appreciated. I would also assume at this point that you also know of some favourable outlets here?"

Shavi smiles, "That I do. This way!"

Kayleigh follows along, trying not to get distracted

Shavi begins leading the way through the shopping centre. As they go, Kayleigh sees that while there is still a majority of Orions, quite a few members of other species can be found in the area too. Her attention would likely be drawn to the even larger variety of fashion however. Some stores display a variety of styles, while others seem to focus specifically on a single type of aesthetic. There are also many stores tailored specifically for males or females, including a very impressive cybernetics emporium that is clearly very popular with Orion males

Kayleigh: "So besides seasonal preferences, what is the driving force behind all of the different styles I am seeing?"

Shavi: "Now that is a complicated question. Some stores are dedicated to specific styles connected to certain Orion sub-cultures, just like the different types of Orion cuisine you saw in the menu earlier. Some are very traditional and generally sell very similar looking things for events like graduations, weddings, funerals and the like. Classic formal wear that always looks more or less the same. Others like to chase the latest trends, coming out with the latest fashion like variations of something a Tabadi was spotted wearing a few weeks ago. You know, all the complexities of fashion."

Kayleigh nods, "I believe I understand, yes. I would like to explore the formal and cultural variances, but that should come later. For now a more casual approach to the latest trends is perhaps in order"

Shavi: "You'll like this place, then." They turn the corner to what looks like a large clothing store, marked with a glowing neon sign in Orion on the top. Within are a large number of shoppers; this is clearly a very popular place, "This is one of the best. They have branches across Narris and have even started expanding offworld last I heard, but they haven't gotten to opening one in the Heart yet. You might want to keep an eye out because it could only be a matter of time before they do, though!"

Kayleigh: "Intriguing. If this is indeed so, I could even bring their style to the promenade clubs ahead of an outlet"

Shavi: "You'll certainly draw some eyes from the OSN personnel sporting the fashion from here! Who knows, maybe you'll get another personal audience with the Tabadi," she smirks

Kayleigh: "That would make for an interesting encounter. Since they have been there so long now I doubt they are quite in touch with the latest trends here. But first things first, casualwear for the rest of the vacation" she begins to explore

—

Shavi holds up a shirt, showing it to Kayleigh, "How about this one?"

Kayleigh hrms, "It is nice, but I'm not certain of the cut on my physique"

Shavi looks to the shirt, then back to Kayleigh, then back to the shirt, "I think you're right." She puts it back and points to a nearby mannequin, "What about that one? Or is it still too tailored for the classic tall Orion physique?"

Kayleigh moves to have a look, "That could work, maybe if I pair it with this skirt. I will try these on"

Shavi nods, "Why don't you try it on and see how it looks, then!"

Kayleigh returns a short time later wearing the new outfit, "I believe this works. Now I just need some complementary shoes. Do they have those here, or would that be a different store?"

Shavi: "They have some here, this store has a bit of almost everything. This way!" She starts leading Kay to another part of the store. She pauses as they come across many rows of displayed shoes, "Here we are! Anything catch your fancy?"

Kayleigh browses a while before frowning, "Why are they all so short...?"

Shavi: "You want something taller? I suppose most Orions are already pretty tall, so we don't make them quite as tall as you do..."

Kayleigh: "I have noticed since arriving here that the majority of your females stand very tall. It is unfortunate that so many in the galaxy are too tall, but it does make me stand out as an oddity". She naturally concludes that everyone else is too tall of course, never the other way around, but keeps browsing before settling on a pair, "These will have to do". She sits on a bench to try them on.

Shavi: "I think they look good-" Shavi is interrupted as Vinune, the psionic from earlier, makes her way over to the two

Vinune: "I thought I sensed something familiar! Trying a new look I see."

Kayleigh stands, looking down herself and twirling around to shift her view, "Hello again Vinune, and yes I am trying to find something more akin to this setting than my previous attire"

Vinune blinks, "Is it just me, or are you taller than before, too?"

Kayleigh glances to her feet and back, "A little, but not as much as I would have liked. It would seem that heels are less of a thing here"

Vinune: "Are you...specifically trying to find shoes to make you taller to blend in better?"

Kayleigh: "I am accustomed to standing out, but not for being so much significantly shorter than everyone around me. When I go to Queens, I always wear moderate heels and have grown accustomed to moving in them so I thought to try something taller while I am here, but that seems not to be an option"

Vinune: "Yes, since Orions are usually fairly tall, it's not as common for us to design these taller shoes. Queens, is that a shopping place where you come from?"

Kayleigh: "Actually it is a club. Though that district does border the commercial promenade back at the Heart, so it is close in a sense"

Shavi: "It's probably the most well-known club in the Heart."

Vinune: "You're interested in nightlife, then?"

Kayleigh: "I find it a curious study in the union of different cultures as we see at the Heart. Along with rapidly evolving fashions, for which it proves a suitable outlet and measure"

Shavi grins, "She always has a logical reason."

Vinune: "Well, if you want to measure your fashion, there's some pretty good clubs around here. And you /did/ just get new fashion..."

Kayleigh perks a brow at Shavi's comment, looking back to Vinune, "I envisaged there being such places here. But this outfit is for everyday, I will need something else for clubwear"

Shavi: "There's a store that specializes in clubwear in the shopping centre! Well, more than one, but one I really like."

Vinune: "I was just planning to head to a club in the evening. Want to go together?"

Kayleigh: "A first hand view of nightlife here would be intriguing" she looks to Shavi

Shavi nods, "I think that's a good idea. Come on, let's get you some clubwear, then! Are you coming with, or do you want to meet at the club later?"

Vinune: "I still have something to grab from here, so you do your shopping first! I was planning to head to the Green Serpent, you know the place?"

Shavi: "Oooh, a good choice. We'll see you at the Serpent then!"

Kayleigh: "Until later then, thank you for the invitation"

Vinune: "I'll see you two there!" She waves as she returns to her shopping

—

Captain Asker leads them to the cells where the Diteans are being kept in, which like the ones on the Venator has been polarized and auditorily sealed so the prisoners are isolated

Mariel: "We'll do our best to help out, Captain. Don't worry, I'm sure between the three of us they won't be able to convince us to do anything we don't want to. We'll watch out for each other!"

Asker nods, "And my people are observing remotely as well" he looks between the two prisoners, seeing who to speak with first

Both Diteans have reverted to their usual, too-perfect looking forms, with their skin shifted into bland grey skintight suits with no distinct markings. One of them appears as male while the other appears as female. Asker approaches the males cell first, activating audio. The male Ditean stands as he sees Asker approach, "Ah, finally. Someone to speak with."

Asker: "Forgive us, but the last time we left you someone to speak with you were very naughty and tried to escpae"

Male Ditean: "Escape? As I recall, we were let go."

Asker: "Which is exactly why you won't be getting left alone with any more impressionable minds"

Male Ditean: "They had good reason to let us go. But yes, I can see that you are more experienced than those we spoke to previously. Although your companions seem rather on the young side."

Asker: "Well there's no fooling you, I'll give you that. But age does not always translate to experience. Advanced age does not guarantee wisdom, nor does youth negate it"

The Ditean nods and smiles, "A sentiment I must agree with. While those who are older do tend to be wiser, it's never a guarantee. I've met younger individuals who demonstrated wisdom beyond their years, and older ones who were as dull as a worn dairy knife."

Asker: "Quite the colourful analogy. But yes, these young ladies are here because they are familiar with your kind from your peoples activities at the Heart"

Male Ditean: "The Heart, that is the Sphere you control, yes? You called these people here just for me? I'm flattered."

Asker grins, "On the contrary in fact. Since you are but two unfamiliar troublemakers, and these young ladies happened to be visiting anyway we saw no reason to trouble anyone else from the Heart"

Male Ditean: "Oh good. I wouldn't want to cause such trouble. It would appear that our presence here has stirred up enough of that as is."

Asker: "Well, it's a funny thing you see. When you declare war on a civilization and then attempt to sneak on to their capital world that tends to happen"

The Ditean sighs, "Yes, we had expected that to be slightly problematic. But we have done our research on your Federation. It is your ideology not to discriminate against others based on species or cultural customs, is it not?"

Asker, "This is true. But a state of war tends to change such things"

Male Ditean: "Our visit here has nothing to do with the war. Well, alright, I shouldn't put it that way. /We/ have nothing to do with the war. For the purposes of transparency, it wouldn't be entirely accurate to say that our visit has nothing to do with the war, but we certainly have no intent of malice."

Asker, "Of course, you just fancied yourselves a nice little vacation, I'm sure. However the capital world of the galactic power that your own people have made war against generally doesn't make for the best shore leave destination"

Male Ditean: "Our people do not make as much of a distinction between duty and leisure as you do, but we are familiar with the concept of a vacation. It would not be entirely inaccurate to describe our visit here, but our visit is as much professional as pleasure. The professional aspect simply has nothing to do with our current military affairs."

Asker, "You'll understand if I need a little more convincing than that"

Male Ditean: "Then let me explain our purpose to you. Our Goddess, Dite, and her Goddess-Kin, the Olympians, lived among your people once on this world. We are historians, archaeologists, anthropologists, here to study their time on this planet and the impacts they left on your culture. The war is not entirely irrelevant to our visit, because we only learned of our mutual connection to the Old Teachers through the conflict. And we choose to risk this journey in the midst of war with your people precisely because we are at war, and we fear that additional fighting could result in irrevocable harm to precious artifacts. We are not here to rob you of your historical items, merely to study and catalogue them for our own records."

Asker hrms, "A questionable story at best. And even if true, that would frame you as questionable characters at best"

Male Ditean: "We are here to study where your history intersects with our own, nothing more. If you analyze the path we took after we were freed previously, you will see that we were headed to your museums and not any structures related to governance or military. And my companion here will also corroborate our purpose."

Asker: "Yes, I'm sure you've got your story all worked out. But now here's the part that interests me; if you are so concerned about damage to - or loss of - historical artifacts here on Earth, then you must have a /very/ good reason to believe they would be at risk in order to chance coming here yourselves now"

Male Ditean: "You suspect we have designs to attack this world? I am not aware of any, but as I have said, I am not a part of our military. It is merely a precaution from my knowledge on how we historically deal with large scale confrontations. But if there is any target our military would be prioritizing, it would be the Heart your companions come from. That is the staging ground for forces closest to the Tydian Worlds. If the conflict is further prolonged, I can see the possibility that Earth will come under threat. But until the Heart falls, I highly doubt we would ever strike out at your Federation homeworlds."

Asker considers the Ditean a moment before a simple, "That will do for now". He turns and nods to the cadets to follow him out. Once outside, Asker turns to the cadets, "Well girls, I am very curious to hear your thoughts"

Mariel: "The reports do say that these Diteans were a genetically engineered species created by one of the ancient Greek gods, Aphrodite. Or at least that's what they claim as their origins. There's no real evidence, but they do seem to believe it's true. And apparently they're known for a love of art and culture. So it's possible they came here just to study our history and historical encounters with their creators. Like you said though, being in the middle of a war with them, it's hard to rule out that there could be ulterior motives."

Asker: "Impossible is more like it, and this story sounds far fetched at best"

T'Pia chimes in, "Which - if my mother were here - she would point out that makes it more plausible since there is no logic in constructing such an unlikely cover story"

Asker, "I know of your mother, and there is certainly merit in that line of thought. But it is not enough for us to determine these prisoners' fate on, either way"

Mariel: "Maybe we can try talking to the other prisoner like this one suggested. If it is a cover story, I'm sure they've discussed it beforehand, but maybe she could provide some more information to work with to either prove or disprove their claims. Or she might slip up if we question her enough, if it is a cover story. You know, classic cross-examination stuff."

Asker smiles, "Yes, I do know cadet. And that is exactly what we will do next. Any other thoughts or input before we proceed?"

Mariel looks to Pia to see if she has any suggestions

T'Pia shakes her head, "I'm still pretty new to all of this, so I've got no basis for comparison"

Mariel: "Cross-examination time, then! I've heard about this from T'Mer, didn't think I'd get to see one in person though!"

Asker: "Well now you do, come on then" he heads back inside, making for the other cell. He pauses as he comes into view of the cell, pinching the bridge of his nose, he looks back to the cadets, "Something tells me this one is more interested in speaking with you two..." he activates the audio for them and steps back

Mariel: "What do you m-" she narrows her eyes as she looks into the cell. "Oh..."

Inside the cell and grinning back her is what appears to be Kayleigh. Not-Kayleigh rushes up to the forcefield, hands held pleadingly in front of herself, "Finally, you made it! Please Mari, you have to help me! Tell them they've made a mistake, you know me!"

Mariel: "Well, this one is blatantly just trying to manipulate her way out..."

Not-Kayleigh giggles and steps back, relaxing into a pose that would look more natural on an Orion. Or Kayleigh on a Saturday night at Queens, "No, just trying to have a little fun! Honestly, faces were priceless! If only you could have seen- oh wait, you could if you want-"

T'Pia raises a hand, "I certainly do not want, thank you"

Mariel: "Yes, I'd rather not..."

Not-Kayleigh pouts, "See now, this is why I had to surprise the two of you. You're just no fun otherwise!"

Mariel: "So, about your visit here...you didn't just come to Earth to mess with cadets, did you?"

Not-Kayleigh, "Nah, not /just/ that" she smirks, leaning in, "Are you two going to play good cop, bad cop with me? Ooh how fun!" she bounces excitedly, "Who gets to be who? Caaaan I be good cop? No, wait, bad cop!"

Mariel glances to Pia, "Even know I know she's not Kay, it's still so weird to see someone who looks like Kay behave so...unlike her."

T'Pia: "It is quite the disturbing image"

Not-Kayleigh gives a coy look, "But is it though? Or is in fact just how you imagine her to be beneath that sultry facade. After all, where's the logic /really/ in dressing up fancy and going to buzzing social hubs, hm? Makes you kind of curious what she's really like if that's where she lets her hair down and not with you..."

Mariel: "Okay, I can buy that you're pulling our thoughts and memories of her, but you can't possibly know what's in her head. She's not even here on Earth."

Not-Kayleigh, "Hmm... well I mean, I /could/. But I don't, because I only know her through you. But your curiosity tells me all I need to know, and you can know too now"

Mariel: "What do you mean, my curosity tells you all you need to know...?"

Not-Kayleigh, "I can see what you see, and feel how that makes you feel. It is not difficult for one of us to fill in the blanks"

Mariel: "So you're enjoying how acting not like Kayleigh while looking like Kayleigh is making us feel all weird, then?"

Not-Kayleigh hrms, "I'm more enjoying how the temptation to the side of her that has always eluded you makes you feel"

Mariel: "You mean the not-so-Vulcan side, all the shopping and stuff that she keeps hidden away?"

Not-Kayleigh smirks, "I mean the hidden depths that all of that eludes to. The true nature of your friend that you can't help but wonder about"

Mariel: "And that is...?"

Not-Kayleigh purrs, "There's no need to be shy, it's natural to be curious about such things. And everybody knows that Vulcans carry their own allure. Orions might wear it on their sleeves, but Vulcans... rawr, there's a reason Ferengi always write them into their fantasy holos!"

T'Pia: "I think I'm going to be sick. I do not want to think about Kay like that, so please don't plant that image"

Mariel: "Yeah...and you realize there's a half-Vulcan right here...right?"

Not-Kayleigh, "And I know she gets it. But she's not the one who captivates your carnal curiosity"

Mariel: "My...what? Okay, let's get back on topic. You're the one being questioned here..."

Not-Kayleigh raises her hands, "Ooh, so now you're going to be bad cop. So naughty! Don't worry, I'll continue to be a good girl for you. After all, I haven't declined any questions so far now"

Mariel: "So what brings you and your friend here to Earth, then? You realize it's a bit suspicious, just showing up with everything that's been going on."

Not-Kayleigh, "As I'm sure he told you before, we're here to study artifacts of Dite"

Mariel: "And how do we know that's the real story, and you're not here to spy on the Federation or something?"

Not-Kayleigh, "Because I'm telling you! How can you not trust this sweet face?" she pouts, "Besides, if we were spies don't you think we'd come up with a more plausible cover story than this?" says with a wink at TP

Mariel: "That /is/ what Pia said...but is there something that could prove your story? Or do we just have to take it by faith..."

Mariel: "Because with a war going on, it's a liiiiittle hard for Starfleet Security to take you by faith."

Not-Kayleigh  "A little hard to take me by faith. But they'll take you by faith."

Mariel: "I'm...not the one who has to prove my intentions."

Not-Kayleigh grins, "But you can prove our intentions. What, you think your closest friend wouldn't know you? You have retrocognition. I'm sure Starfleet Security can trace our transport to what ship we came in on. I wouldn't be surprised if they've locked down the ship already. Go on board, listen in on some of our private conversations. No need to lie among ourselves, and you'll see we came to do exactly what we claim to."

—

Captain Asker and the cadets materialize on the transporter pad of the ship the Diteans arrived on. The transporter room is relatively fancy, resembling a mid-24th century Starfleet ship in design, and it is clear that this is a fairly luxurious, Federation-designed transport vessel. A well-dressed Bolian man awaits them just off the pad

Bolian: "Welcome to the Magnificence of the Stars. I'm Captain Roff. My crew and I will accommodate any investigation you need to perform, of course. As I've already explained to your colleagues  in Starfleet Security, we are a law-abiding transportation and vacation service. You have my sincerest apologies for ferrying any...illegal individuals, but they had tickets and what seemed to be legal documentation, at least to us at the time."

Asker raises a hand, "Worry not Captain, you and your people are not at fault here. We appreciate your accommodation to our investigation and hope not to keep you long. We just need to take another look at their quarters. Could you please show us to them"

Roff: "Of course. Right this way."

As Roff leads the way, he says, "Are you using this as an opportunity to train some cadets in a live investigation, then?"

Asker: "Something like that. Although I have a feeling I might be the one learning something new today" he glances Mari's way

Mariel: "Well, it's not really that interesting to observe. Useful though for investigations! I've been offered to switch to Security...a few times, now," she chuckles

Asker: "I am not surprised"

Roff pauses as they reach a door, "This was their room. They were out and about quite a bit on the ship while they were here. Didn't really strike me as the spy sort, didn't keep to themselves very much at all. Well, the stereotypical secretive spy sort, I mean."

Asker: "Thank you Captain. Cadet, is there anything we need to do to make this easier?"

Mariel: "No, the only factor is that stronger emotion usually leads to more easily accessed visions, but there's no way to go back and alter the emotion of the moment, so I just have to...sit and meditate and see what I get.

Asker nods, "Then we will wait out here so you can focus in peace"

T'Pia: "I'll come with and help you meditate if you like"

Mariel: "That can be helpful, yeah! It's always good to have Vulcan guidance for meditation."

Asker, "Have at it then girls. We'll be here when you're done"

Mariel nods and steps inside, "Oh, and don't pay any attention to what that Ditean earlier said. I like Vulcans as meditation partners and nothing else!"

T'Pia smiles, "Don't worry, it's no problem to me if you did!"

Mariel: "Wait, you aren't disturbed by what she was saying?"

T'Pia: "Why would I be? It's not like she was implicating me in anything"

Mariel: "Right, it was mostly implicating Kayleigh specifically..."

T'Pia: "Exactly. Besides, I wouldn't be surprised if you haven't at least wondered about her at times. What with her obsession over fashion and dancing, and all things Orion. And we all know her rep from the promenade. Even if it's nothing lewd like that Ditean made out with you, I know I've been curious about Kay's other side more than once"

Mariel nods, "Yeah, I've definitely been curious too. Nothing lewd, though!"

T'Pia: "Well, you'd be about the only one at the academy who could claim that if so" she chuckles, "But down to business, this line of thought is not condusive with meditation"

Mariel: "Right." She makes her way to the centre of the room and kneels down. "Let's see what I can learn about these Diteans..."

T'Pia follows and kneels in front of Mari, adopting a meditative pose

Mariel speaks up after a few minutes of quiet meditation, "I see them! Now just to listening in on whatever they talk about..."

Mariel steps out with Pia after about twenty minutes inside the Diteans' room

Asker, "Well?"

Mariel: "The Diteans are telling the truth. They seem to be here for purely academic reasons with no relation to their military. They were even complaining that their military wouldn't provide enough information for them about Starfleet. But they /did/ also consciously impersonate the identities of Federation citizens, so if you want to hold them, I'm pretty sure they still broke at least a few laws there. It's just that they did it to access Earth's historical relics and not for anything related to the war."

Asker: "That may be up to SFI now, I have received word that their people are en route to collect the prisoners. I will make sure to relay your findings here though, and I have no doubt that they will be taken into consideration. Thank you for your support, Cadet"

Mariel smiles, "We're glad we were able to be of help, Captain."

T'Pia nods, "Yeah!"

Asker: "And helped you did, but now I think we should get you girls back to your shore leave"

Mariel: "Right. Good luck with the rest of your investigation! And we'll be here for the next few days if you do need us for anything again."

—

Shavi wakes up back in her room at the inn. She doesn't know how long she's been out, but from the way her head feels it's been a long one. She slowly sits up, rubbing her eyes and shaking her head, She looks around the room, checking to see if Kayleigh is here

Seeing that Kay is not there, and her bed doesn't look slept in either, Shavi slumps back onto the bed for a moment before realizing, wait, Kay's not here, and jumps up again. She heads over to check if there is any sign Kay had returned to the room

There's no obvious sign, but with her fuzzy head nothing is particularly obvious right now so Shavi looks around for her combadge to try and contact Kay. After some rummaging, she finds it. There is no response from Kay's however, but it does seem to have a signal still

Shavi gets a cup of water and takes a drink, clearing her head a bit before starting work on tracing the signal. After some work, she is able to triangulate the signal to an area across town, but with her limited resources here all she can do is narrow it down to a small area. But once there, she knows her tricorder will help in further narrowing it down

Shavi quickly gets ready to set out, packing the combadge and tricorder and heading down the inn's transporter to beam to that part of town and materializes from a public transporter in the right part of the city and steps out, checking her tricorder to see if it gets any Vulcan lifesign readings, but area is too populated to be able to single out lifesign readings, "Thought it wouldn't be that easy..." She heads over to a public terminal to check the buildings and businesses in the area for anything that might stand out as somewhere Kayleigh could be

She recognizes some of the businesses, but just generally. For the most part it is more of a residential district that is just bordering the entertainment district they went to. Shavi checks the comm signal again to make sure she didn't get the location confused with the entertainment district

She has the right area, and now she is in closer range she is able to hone in on the combadge signal more. Shavi cross-references the combadge signal to the map to find a specific building or at least block to search in and is able to narrow it down to a nearby block

Shavi heads over to the block, seeing if she can narrow it down even further once she's there. While she works on narrowing down the search, she can't shake the feeling of familiarity about the place and pauses to think, trying to remember when she's come here before but It's all still too fuzzy, odds are it was on their night out

As she is searching, Shavi gets a strong sense of deja vu as she walks past the entrance to a large complex. Turning towards it with tricorder in hand, it does seem possible that the signal comes from within, but on one of the floors far above her

Shavi makes her way into the building and heads for the elevator, taking it a few floors up at a time to try and triangulate the signal. It's a slow but methodical process, and she is eventually able to track down the right floor. Shavi uses her tricorder to find a Vulcan lifesign now that she's on the right floor

Sure enough, there is one Vulcan lifesign in close proximity. Shavi heads towards the Vulcan lifesign, narrowing down the search she finds the room, but there is no response to the doorbell

Shavi scans again to see if there are any other lifesigns inside before trying to ring the doorbell again but her tricorder seems to be confusing the number of Orion lifesigns from the rooms and floors around her, because it shows a lot

Shavi frowns and tries ringing the doorbell some more, but still no response

Shavi tries the doorbell of a nearby room instead. She reaches for the doorbell, but notices that the door to this apartment is slightly open. She peers her head in slowly and cautiously, "Hello?"

It seems to be derelict so Shavi steps inside, keeping her tricorder in hand so she doesn't get surprised by a sudden person, or rather surprise them since she's the one going into their home...

Working through the apartment, it seems increasingly clear that it is likely somebody's holiday residence that is currently not in use. Cleaning staff probably leave the door ajar for maintenance

Shavi makes her way back out and checks her tricorder again to make sure the Vulcan lifesign and multiple Orion lifesigns are still here, and it's not a technical malfunction

With her readings confirmed, Shavi explores further into the derelict apartment and finds a door leading out to a balcony. It looks like it is adjoining. Shavi steps out onto the balcony to see if she can get an idea of what's going on in the other room. She can't see from this balcony, but it would be a simple hop over the railing to reach the balcony of the apartment she's trying to reach

Shavi sighs, "Guess it's doing things this way, then..." She hops over the railing to the other balcony. On the other side, she can see through cracks in the blinds to the apartment. It is hard to make much out as it is very dark in there, but with a little squinting she is able to make out what look like feet. Not just one set either, but several and they are all laying down, unmoving

Shavi knocks on the balcony door to see if anyone wakes up. Nobody responds, but in knocking the door she realizes it is open so shei opens the door and steps in, looking around for Kay

What she finds is a sight that would be more familiar to viewers of certain Ferengi holonovels. There is indeed a pile of bodies spread all over the floor, but all squirming and quite content by the looks of them. There are a mix of males and females, almost all Orion. With one very pale and pink exception entangled in the midst of it all...

Shavi: "Kayleigh?!

Kayleigh stirs groggily and tilts her head back, "Hello Shavi, is it morning already?"

Shavi: "It's been...a few mornings."

Kayleigh perks a brow, looking around herself, "I appear to have missed some things then"

One of the many body pillows she currently has reaches up and caresses her cheek, "Ssshhh, this is blissful time"

Shavi: "You and me both. Sorry for disturbing you! I should...leave you to it..."

Kayleigh nods, "That might be easier than trying to unravel this. I will rendezvous with you at your grandfathers inn"

Another one of the body pillows, a bulky and toned male reaches a hand to Shavi, "You should join us"

Shavi: "Thanks for the offer, but maybe another time! You enjoy yourself Kayleigh!"

Kayleigh: "I assume that is the intention here...oh, OH! Um, please be careful where you put that..." she mutters to the male who invited Shavi in

Shavi: "Yes, that's definitely the intention...right! I'll see you back at the inn!" She turns to make her way out

Kayleigh turns to another one, "Excuse me, but that is Starfleet property and not yours to touch" then another, "Hey what are- um, Shavi... help... Shavi? Um, Cadet in distress... Shavi... Shavi!" she reaches out in vain towards the now rapidly exiting, and everso smirking, Shavi before she disappears back out the balcony

—

The next day, Shavi is sitting in the inn eating her lunch when she hears the transporter activate. She  looks over as she eats to see Kayleigh materializes, looking around she steps over to join Shavi, "There you are" she sits

Shavi: "Welcome back, Kay. You've certainly enjoyed your time on vacation, haven't you...?" she smirks

Kayleigh perks a brow, "I don't know what you mean. Vulcan's don't 'enjoy'” she states, reaching for a menu PADD and tapping to place an order

Shavi: "Right. We're back to full Vulcan mode," she grins

Kayleigh: "To say back to would imply there was any other 'mode'"

Shavi: "What were you doing the last few days out, then?"

Kayleigh: "Experiencing the uniqueness of another culture, exactly what I set out to do on vacation"

Shavi smiles, "And you had fun, right?"

Kayleigh of course, doesn't actually answer one way or the other: "Fun would imply an emotional response to chemical stimuli in the brain"

Shavi: "So, do you know more about Orion cuisine now that you've experienced Orion culture for yourself, or do you still need some recommendations?"

Kayleigh taps and orders one of the High Orion dishes, a little more adventurous now. She sets the menu pad back down and squirms a little as she leans back

Shavi: "Yup, definitely getting to know our culture now."

Kayleigh: "Mhm. I am far from proficient still, but I now know enough to identify things that I like"

Shavi: "Perfect. Thought you'd have picked up a thing or two during your wild time out. Don't worry, I won't breathe a word of it to anyone when we're back at the Annex," she smirks

Kayleigh: "That would... keep things simple, yes. Anyway, I may have stayed longer than you did but that does not make the experience exclusively my own"

Shavi: "What happens on Narris stays on Narris then?"

Kayleigh hrms, considering this, "Well, since events are relatively fixed in space-time then your statement is logical. I believe that works"

Shavi: "Of course there's got to be a logical explanation to it. We've got a deal then!"

Kayleigh: "We have" she accepts her lunch as it's delivered, and starts digging in. Still with the occasional uncomfortable squirm

Shavi eyes Kayleigh, "Something wrong, Kay?"

Kayleigh: "Everything is exactly as it is expected to be" she sips her drink

Shavi: "Are you sure? You seem to be moving a bit strangely..."

Kayleigh: "It is as I said. Excuse me a moment" she stands and makes for the bathroom. In doing so, her skirt inadvertently flicks up a bit as she spins around, and Shavi glances at the hint of a playful bite mark on Kay's rear and giggles, "Take all the time you need! Your secret's safe with me!"

-----

Mariel and T'Pia sit in the dining hall of the Annex, having returned from their vacation first

Kayleigh walks in, back in uniform now, having returned from her trip to Narris as well. She retrieves a drink and joins the others

Kayleigh:"Mari, T'Pia, I see you have returned from your trip as well"

Mariel:"Hey Kay! How's vacation for you? The new Orion homeworld everything you hoped it'd be?"

Kayleigh:"It was quite the educational experience, yes"

Mariel:"Learned a lot about Orion culture, then?"

Kayleigh:"Culture, fashion, cuisine, many aspects of life on their new homeworld" she sips her drink, "And how was Earth?"

Mariel:"Well, we've both been to Earth so it wasn't a new experience like yours or anything, but there were definitely some...interesting things that happened."

Kayleigh perks a brow, setting her drink down, "You say that with a curious tone"

Mariel:"It's quite a story!"

Kayleigh:"A story of events on shore leave? That is unfortunate"

Mariel:"Well, it was something we didn't expect to get caught up in, but it's not that something went wrong, either!"

Kayleigh:"That is reassuring, but I meant that it is unfortunate since I will not be able to hear the story after your eluding to it"

T'Pia: "You can totally hear it! It's not been classified or anything!"

Kayleigh:"But it occurred on shore leave?"

Mariel:"Yes...?"

Kayleigh:"And as I recently learned, what happens on shore leave stays on shore leave. Right?"

Mariel:"Umm...wait, what kind of shore leave did you have?"

Kayleigh:"The normal kind?"

Mariel:"The normal kind is visiting family or relaxing on a beach, not the sort of thing that needs to...stay on shore leave, as you put it..."

Kayleigh:"Oh? huh... well then if I am misinformed then perhaps I can hear your story"

T'Pia: "Well it started when we visited my father, who was on Earth at the same time. Apparently he was just about to contact my mother because they caught some Diteans trying to sneak onto Earth!"

Kayleigh:"Diteans that far coreward? A troubling revelation"

Mariel:"Exactly! Admiral Bishop was hoping for someone from the Heart to assist, but everyone who has experience with Diteans here are already busy dealing with everything they're up to on the rim. So I volunteered to help!"

Kayleigh:"A commendable decision"

Mariel:"Long story short, it turned out the Diteans were just visiting Earth to learn about our ancient history, and how their gods were on Earth as our Greek gods. Still, they did impersonate Federation citizens to sneak in illegally, but they weren't involved in anything to do with the war."

Kayleigh:"That seems... unlikely, given the current political climate with them"

Mariel:"That's exactly what we thought. But all the information seemed to line up. The Diteans suggested I use my abilities on the transport ship they came in on, and what I saw confirms their story. As does their travel path through Paris and all that."

Kayleigh:"Quite the eventful trip then. Though does it count as shore leave if you spent the time working like that?"

T'Pia: "Well, we still got plenty of time actually visiting our families and relaxing on Earth! Just a little bit of unexpected helping out at the start!"

Kayleigh:"That is fortunate then"

Mariel:"What about you? I take it your vacation was nice and relaxing?"

Kayleigh:"Indeed. We stayed at a guesthouse operated by Shavi's grandfather"

T'Pia: "That sounds pleasant!"

Mariel:"I didn't know Shavi's family had a place like that."

Kayleigh:"Neither did I. The trip was as educational about Shavi and her family, in many ways"

Mariel:"And Orion culture as a whole, I bet!"

Kayleigh nods, "Very much so"

Mariel:"Now I'm kind of curious what about your shore leave made you think you can't tell us stories about your shore leave...is it all supposed to be a secret? I mean, you are telling us about Shavi's grandfather and all that..."

Kayleigh:"That is quite simple actually. I came to understand that being the case because it is what I was told"

Mariel:"By who?"

Kayleigh:"By Shavi"

Mariel:"What exactly did Shavi drag you into..."

Kayleigh:"There was no dragging"

Mariel:"I don't mean literally...oh forget I asked. I'm not sure I /want/ to know the kinds of things you were up to that required that kind of secrecy..."

Kayleigh:"You make it sound so untoward. I simply experienced multiple facets of that culture, and it was mentioned that what happens there stays there" her eyes narrow, "You however seem distinctly more curious than normal..."

Mariel:"No, no, not curious! Well, maybe a little curious... It's just that when you say something is a secret, it makes people want to know it more! Especially when it relates to shore leave, because that often refers to some very specific kinds of secrets..."

Kayleigh:"It does? What kinds of secrets does that refer to then, and why are they so much more alluring than any other?"

Mariel:"Well, it usually refers to people having done something they shouldn't..."

Kayleigh:"Is that so, well thank you for clarifying"

T'Pia: "/Did/ you do something you shouldn't?"

Kayleigh:"I did not. Now if you will excuse me, I am taking Kit to the surface" she stands

Mariel:"Enjoy your walk on the surface!"

Mariel exchanges a curious look with T'Pia as Kayleigh walks away