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+---- Thread: When Two Worlds Collide (/showthread.php?tid=208)
When Two Worlds Collide - Damien Coleman - 10-09-2023
== closed subplot. Behave you two. You know who you are
==
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Aeryn Miller - 10-10-2023
== Sydesh/Okehampton Quarters - Deck 4 ==
With the exception of Mara, Aeryn didn’t usually stop by a member of her department’s quarters, unless there was a very good reason to do so. In this instance it was returning the sparring gloves that she had borrowed from Nat Okehampton, after the other woman had suggested that she try them out before replicating a pair of her own. True to her word they had proven to be quite effective and since they were still on shore leave and with Aeryn having nothing to do, the Chief thought it would be the perfect opportunity to return them, before their normal busy lives resumed on the ship.
Having showered following her session in the ship’s gym, Aeryn had braided her slightly damp hair so it wouldn’t bother her, before changing into a lilac fitted tank top and denim shorts, going for comfort especially after such a rigorous and well needed workout. There was nothing quite like taking out your frustration and stress via a punching bag, leaving the Lieutenant feeling refreshed and ready to take on her next challenge. The security officer had finished off her look with a pair of slip-on sneakers and as she approached the quarters that Nat shared with Beka Sydesh the only thing that she carried was the gloves in the small duffle bag that Nat had provided.
Coming to a stop and checking that she had the right destination, Aeryn then pressed the door chime and waited.
== Tag Beka ==
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Beka Sydesh - 10-10-2023
Beka had gotten back to the ship from her sojourn out to DS9 a few hours ago. She’d pretty much sat on the couch, shrugged off her jacket, kicked off her boots, and then dozed off where she sat. There was no sign of Nat Okehampton but that wasn’t entirely a surprise. The Security officer was probably being romanced by her new beau Cam Reeve, the partners on the beat having hit it off and become partners in another sense within the space of a few weeks.
The door chime woke the redhead up with a start. She yawned and stretched, winced as her back twinged, and then eased herself up off the couch.
Absently she rubbed at the small of her back where the synaptic enhancer sat. Beka was still wearing the emerald green cami top and fitted black jeans from earlier, vivid tattoos on both arms and her ginger hair in a braided ponytail. She was barefoot, both sets of nails painted a soft mint green - the simple act of bending over for long enough to paint her toenails had drawn a string of pained curses against Graiark Orbital, herself, Star Fleet, Mara Calleja, the Syndicate and just about everything else.
Typical me. Cause myself unyielding agony because I’m too damn stubborn to admit defeat.
Padding across the carpet, she hit the button to open the door, and then did a double-take. Beka had really not been expecting to see a woman in a tank top and denim shorts, especially not one who looked like Aeryn Miller did. The two officers hadn’t met yet so the doctor had no idea who she was dealing with, although as she blinked a couple of times to make sure she wasn’t hallucinating, she was pretty keen to find out.
“Uh, hello?” she managed.
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Aeryn Miller - 10-10-2023
Standing a little straighter as the door to Nat’s shared quarters opened, Aeryn soon realised that she wasn’t looking at her friend but rather her roommate. The Security Chief had never met Beka Sydesh, but she had heard about the Doctor specifically from Mara and yet found herself smiling slightly upon seeing how the other woman had initially reacted to her.
Understandable, really considering that this was their first meeting, and Beka probably wasn’t expecting to see Nat’s boss dressed in a tank top and shorts.
As first meetings went, Aeryn could think of worse ways to meet someone and as Beka found her voice, Aeryn’s smile deepened into something warmer as she responded.
“ Hey Beka, I was wondering if Nat was in as I wanted to return the sparring gloves that she leant me” Aeryn replied, holding up the bag instinctively before lowering it, a little awkwardly.
== Tag ==
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Beka Sydesh - 10-10-2023
“Nat has sparring gloves?” Beka looked genuinely surprised to hear that. “The only punch I’ve ever seen her throw was in the lounge when she tripped and dropped a glass of fruit cocktail.”
She quickly plastered a hand across her mouth and sighed. When that particular one-liner got back to Nat, her roommate was going to make Beka pay dearly.
“Sorry,” the redhead said, her hand dropping to her waist. “I tend to shoot from the lip when I’m caught by surprise. And you got me good, I must admit. It’s not every day I get someone as hot as you come knocking on my door. Even if you did want Nat.”
The warm smile on Beka’s lips easily reached her emerald-coloured eyes.
“Can I get you something to drink?” she offered. “Coffee? Soda? I don’t drink the hard stuff but I’m sure we can raid Nat’s stash.”
Her expression changed for a second as she suddenly remembered something.
“Sorry, look at me running my mouth. I’m Beka Sydesh. Part time doctor, part time embarrassment to all concerned. And it is an honour to meet you,” she said, managing to pull off a surprisingly effective curtsy for someone who was wearing jeans.
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Aeryn Miller - 10-10-2023
Aeryn had to stifle a chuckle at the reference that Beka then made about Nat, knowing from first hand experience what it was like to spill a drink, and the way that the embarrassment burned just as much as the alcohol itself. Of course she had learned to brush it off or make some joke about it, before she decided to be diplomatic with her response. “ I won’t tell her” she replied with a wink as Beka realised what she had said. The apology and explanation that followed, was enough to almost catch Aeryn off guard, as it had been a long time since anyone had called her hot, let alone it coming from Nat’s roommate.
“ I guess it was fate then” Aeryn remarked, suddenly feeling a little more bolder than she usually would be, because Beka had succeeded in casting a sense of intrigue, a feeling that Aeryn hadn’t experienced since … well it didn’t matter as Beka then invited her in and offered her a drink.
“ A soda would be good, thanks”.
While she could have opted for something stronger, it didn’t feel right, at least not yet as Beka apologised for a second time and introduced herself properly complete with a curtsey. “ The honour is all mine, as it’s not every day that someone calls me hot and curtsies for me".
" I'm Aeryn" the Security Chief added, despite being a little flustered at the compliment that had been given.
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Beka Sydesh - 10-13-2023
The name should have triggered some recognition with Beka, if not full fledged alarm bells. And it would have done if she had done anything with the couple of hundred unread messages in her inbox. In amongst them were the official congratulations and welcome aboard to the new Chief of Security Aeryn Miller. Nat hadn’t bothered to say anything to her roommate, because who could possibly miss the announcement of a COS on the Artemis of all ships?
“Aeryn? Love that,” Beka said, wandering over to the replicator. “Never met an Aeryn before. Couple of Erins, but they’re just not as… exotic.” She scooped a pair of glasses of Bajoran cola off the pad and came back.
“Please, sit,” the redhead said as she bent at the waist to lower the glasses to the table, green eyes never leaving her guest’s and a warm smile on her lips. She knew exactly how her top was cut and how it made the most of the generous gifts she had been given.
As she lowered herself onto the end of the couch, one leg folded underneath herself, Sydesh felt a distinctly unwelcome twinge from her ravaged back. Her expression glazed over for a second as she adjusted her position until it went away.
“Sorry,” she said breezily. “Where were we? Oh yeah. I was studiously trying to avoid giving away any of my tales of failure, whilst finding out more about you. What brings you to Artemis?”
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Aeryn Miller - 10-14-2023
The lack of immediate recognition upon telling Beka her name was intriguing to Aeryn. Then again, with the size of the Artemis, it didn't come as a complete surprise that not everyone knew who she was. Aeryn thought of it as a positive, as this way she could get to know Beka, without the trappings that came with rank and position. After all, she was still a person, and it might be fun just to be herself until the subject of her being Nat's boss eventually came up. Even then, it wouldn't necessarily be a bad thing.
There was more to Aeryn than her rank, and when Beka complimented her name while fetching their drinks from the replicator, it brought out a smile from her fellow redhead. It wasn't often that Aeryn had someone comment on her name and how exotic it might seem, but for her, it was just her name.
" Thanks, but I'll let you in on a little secret. I didn't think it was that special until I found out why my parents had chosen it", Aeryn began to reveal. " I was named after their favourite character from an old Earth TV show called Farscape".
Aeryn didn't expect Beka to be aware of that particular show, but then something happened that made the security officer pause her train of thought. It wasn't Beka telling her to sit but rather the way the Doctor looked at her, as she put the glasses of cola onto the table. From this angle, as Aeryn sat down, it wasn't hard to notice certain things and that's when another thought entered her mind.
If Beka was trying to flirt with her, then Aeryn was out of practice as there hadn't been anyone since Merle. It wasn't as if she had never received attention from the opposite sex before, but interesting all the same, before Beka's demeanour changed ever so slightly. Naturally, Aeryn was concerned until Beka apologised and carried on the conversation as if nothing had happened. " It's okay, Mara told me about it and as to what brought me to Artemis. A new start after losing someone very close to me".
== Tag Beka ==
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Beka Sydesh - 10-20-2023
The Farscape reference went straight over Beka’s head. She was pretty well versed in the 20th century by 25th century standards - this was the girl who had gone to a ship-board Halloween party in a holographic Ghost Rider costume after all, and shared more than a few Lord of the Rings puns with Robin Mayfair in recent days - but the source of Aeryn’s name was a touch too obscure for her.
"It's okay, Mara told me about it and as to what brought me to Artemis. A new start after losing someone very close to me."
The two parts to that immediately started to roll around Beka’s head.
Mara told her about what happened? That can’t be right. Mara literally only told 1 person the truth and that was the COS, and Nat said she kept her word. She took the flak for us. So for Aeryn to know… Oh f*ck.
Realisation suddenly dawned. Beka chuckled quietly to herself, green eyes shining brightly.
“I’ve finally managed to put two and two together. Welcome to our humble abode, o Chief of Security,” the redhead said with a waspish grin. “My record with Artemis COS is still as checkered as ever. I had quite the misunderstanding with your predecessor and I may have… sort of… kinda threatened him with some secrets from his past. Luckily he’s the forgiving kind. And now here we are, me trying to flirt with his successor.” Her smile was just coy enough, her eyes just suggestive enough, to underscore her words as she laid out her intentions.
It had been a long time since Sydesh had tried to flirt her way into someone’s affections. Her near-boundless confidence meant she had been much more direct, but with her injury that confidence had ebbed away enough to change a lot of things.
“And if it’s a new start you want, then we can definitely help with that,” the doctor added. “Make some new memories that you can cherish just as much.”
She leant forward, tenderly reaching out a hand to take hold of one of Aeryn’s. If the other woman didn’t pull away, then Beka would gently run a thumb across her fingers, green eyes locked on Aeryn’s cool grey-green stare.
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Aeryn Miller - 10-20-2023
There it was, the realisation that finally triggered Beka about who Aeryn was, thanks to her promise to Mara and what she had done to ensure that it never went further than it had to. Unless it affected their ability to perform their duties or was above Aeryn's pay grade, the COS always kept her promises, and nothing would change that aspect of who she was. Taking a sip of cola, Aeryn put down her glass and smiled as Beka spoke.
" Thank you" Aeryn replied with a wink, as Beka continued and mentioned her predecessor, whom Aeryn was fortunate to call a friend. Damian had been instrumental in helping her adjust to her new position, and even now she could call on her mentor whenever she needed it or when they often worked together. So it was certainly interesting to hear about his history with Beka, and she could see how Damian had forgiven her.
" He is and yes you are".
Aeryn's hunch about Beka flirting with her had been right, and yet she didn't feel embarrassed or the desire to make up an excuse to leave. Coming here to drop off Nat's boxing gloves was turning into something else, something that Aeryn hadn't even thought possible, as Beka's attempt went up a notch. Her words had Aeryn wondering about the possibility of making new memories, of finally letting go and experiencing new things. So when Beka tenderly took hold of her hand, Aeryn surprised herself by not pulling away, allowing the other woman to gently rub her thumb across her fingers as her piercing green eyes met Aeryn's.
" Maybe that's something we can discuss, as I'm open to that possibility".
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Beka Sydesh - 10-26-2023
"Maybe that's something we can discuss, as I'm open to that possibility."
“Discuss?”
Beka’s lips turned up in a wry smile as she leant back. Maybe tonight wasn’t going the way she was hoping it would.
I was trying for some good old-fashioned hair-tie-on-the-door mischief. But she wants to… what… table this for later?
“I mean, if you’d rather I make an appointment so we can discuss the possibility of maybe getting up to something, I’ll get Nat to book it in your calendar,” the redhead teased gently. “But if you lose the moment, that little bit of spontaneous magic, you lose so much more than that.”
She tilted her head down and to the side, her eyes flicking up coquettishly.
“Which would be a real shame. Don’t you think?”
Beka left the question hanging in the air, hoping she’d misread Aeryn.
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Aeryn Miller - 10-27-2023
The very second that Aeryn heard her own words repeated back to her, made her feel as though she was a complete idiot. Her internal monologue screamed at her naivety, confirming that she was out of practice regarding this kind of thing. While she had been honest and open to trying new experiences, and ending the self-enforced drought because she didn't want to go through losing someone again, she hadn't exactly got off to the greatest of starts.
So while Beka teased her gently, there was a small part of Aeryn that wanted to hide or, better yet, have the deck open up and swallow her whole. However, she decided to confront this head-on and use some of that Scottish bravado that had served her well when she needed it the most, even more so when Beka left an important question hanging between them.
" Yes it would be a shame, and you can probably tell that I'm out of practice with all of this" she admitted, with a slight Scottish lilt to her voice, a piece of her true heritage that had never quite left the redhead despite spending most of her life in space.
" It's also new to me".
There she had said it, thinking it was better to get that out of the way before anything potentially happened and so Beka didn't think she was a complete novice.
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Beka Sydesh - 12-05-2023
As Aeryn spoke, Beka tried to place the accent, but it wasn’t one she recognised. It wasn’t unpleasant to listen to, far from it. The lilt seemed somehow… welcoming?
"It's also new to me," the Security chief admitted.
“Ah.” Sydesh smiled knowingly. Now she understood why the other redhead seemed so reticent. This had happened before - she was no stranger to being somebody’s first experience, whether that was their first time with a woman or even their first time with a human.
But that means there’s still a chance here…
“Don’t let me put you off. I have a horrible habit of running my mouth at the worst times,” Beka said, gently squeezing the hand she was still holding. “If you want to slow it down, we can do that. Whatever makes you happy. Me, I’m just happy you’re here. I don’t get to spend much time with gorgeous women any more.”
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Aeryn Miller - 12-06-2023
It appeared as though Beka had known exactly what she had meant, judging by the response Aeryn received along with the knowing smile. That gave the Security Chief some comfort that she hadn't completely ruined her chances with the Doctor, despite the way she had initially come across. Although she couldn't beat herself up about it, because it wasn't as if she was lying about it being new to her, and while her experiences had primarily been with men, Aeryn wasn't exactly closed off to the possibility of experiencing things with the opposite gender.
Beka also seemed to get her, without the need for Aeryn to keep apologising or making a fool of herself. Even going so far as to tell her fellow redhead to not be put off just because she had a habit of running her mouth off. Beka's confession left an impression on Aeryn, who grinned slightly, feeling more comfortable in the medical officer's presence as she gently squeezed her hand.
That feeling only increased as Beka then offered up a solution that Aeryn immediately began to consider, before she was complimented again, and she had to admit that it was nice to hear it. " You haven't put me off Beka and yes I'd like to slow it down for now" she began. " Neither do I and as long as we're both happy, then that's the main thing".
The key to a successful relationship was both people being happy, and while she was content to take things slow and see where they went, there was a sense of excitement at the prospect of doing that, and spending more time with Beka.
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Aeryn Miller - 05-24-2024
== Holodeck - Deck 5 ==
With things going extremely well between her and Beka, Aeryn had decided to plan a surprise date for the pair, to show her Doctor girlfriend just how much she cared about her. Unlike the Christmas party which had been their first social outing as a couple, Aeryn had wanted something a little more private. So, after scouring the database and with a little creativity, Aeryn came up with the perfect holodeck programme.
Everything else had fallen into place, and as the redhead approached the designated holodeck after picking up a few essentials from the lounge, which were all contained within the wicker basket that she was carrying, all Aeryn needed was Beka. She hadn't said much other than to tell her girlfriend to dress for summer, and that the rest would be a surprise, and she wouldn't be lying if she wasn't a little nervous about pulling off something like that.
After all, it had been a while since she had planned a surprise for someone, and following a couple of well-timed and executed deep breaths, Aeryn arrived at her destination and entered the holodeck to finish setting it all up. Once inside, it was easy to forget that she wasn't in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, overlooking the lake on a sunny day, with plenty for the couple to do once they had finished their picnic. Drinking in the scenery, Aeryn then laid out the blanket, before placing the basket at the edge.
Then all Aeryn had to do was sit down and wait for Beka to arrive, slipping off her sandals in the process, before brushing down the sides of her light green sundress as her body connected with the blanket.
== Tag Beka ==
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Beka Sydesh - 05-28-2024
== Holodeck ==
It had been tense on Artemis whilst the away team was gone. Beka had taken a real interest in the rumours and gossip flying around for once, knowing that Aeryn and Robin were out there somewhere. Even though the two of them were surrounded by the likes of Crawford, Coleman and Calleja, it was still a nervous wait for news. When they’d come back, the doctor had pulled rank and been right there to treat the wounded the moment they’d beamed back aboard.
Thankfully the injuries to Aeryn and Mara had been superficial, so it had been a case of carrying out the dermatological treatment and nervous regeneration before letting them get back on with their lives, although Beka’s bedside manner had been very different with the former compared to the latter. She fussed over her girlfriend, relieved to have her back. In contrast, the unusual relationship between Sydesh and Calleja was still no closer to being figured out by either of them, but the Bandaran had left Sickbay with the redhead having done her usual thorough job.
As she let herself into the holodeck, Beka was actually in a pretty great mood. The moment Artemis had docked she’d had a notification from DS9 that they were ready to carry out the spinal surgery she so badly needed. If she had been capable, she would have sprinted the whole way there to make it happen.
The operation had been a success and already the redhead felt like a new woman again. The pain and the discomfort had gone completely. There was a little numbness that was completely normal, given the procedure she’d undergone, but the difference was night and day. Beka had a real spring in her step and was moving around with the almost feline grace she’d had before Graiark.
And it’s not just because I get to hang out with Aeryn. Although, yeah, I’m not going to lie. It’s mostly because I get to hang out with Aeryn.
The message to ‘dress for summer’ had been received. Sydesh had gone for her trademark tiny shorts in blue denim and a teal cropped top, along with orange sneakers, her fiery orange hair tied back in a simple ponytail. She had a two-piece swimsuit on underneath as she wasn’t entirely sure what she was being invited to, but as she walked towards the lake she was very glad of that decision.
Sneaking up behind Aeryn, Beka tapped her on the left shoulder and then sat down on her right. It was an old joke but she was still grinning as she kissed her fellow redhead on the neck.
“Hey you,” Sydesh said, stretching her legs out. “I love this program already! Gorgeous views. And the lake isn’t bad either, I guess,” she added with a mischievous wink.
== Back atcha! ==
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Aeryn Miller - 05-28-2024
Sitting there surrounded by the sights and smells of her beloved Scotland, Aeryn suddenly found herself feeling a little bit homesick, a rare occurrence for the redhead who rarely felt that way. That being said, ever since her return from the last mission, the security officer had been a mixed bag of emotions, and not quite her full radiant self. However, she wasn't going to let that spoil today, not when she and Beka were as solid as a couple could be.
That was where Aeryn felt comfortable, and while she had never expected to find love and someone to share that with, when she first arrived on Artemis, she didn't want to let it go. Life could be cruel as she had been through, and if she was going to get through this, then Beka was her anchor to ensure that she never lost sight of what was important to her.
She was in a good place whenever she was around her girlfriend, who had fussed over her, the moment she returned from the Callisto. Aeryn knew that they had both been equally relieved to be reunited with one another, to heal together now that Beka had undergone some much-needed spinal surgery. Leaving her troubles behind was definitely on the cards, as she heard the sound of the doors swishing open signaling the arrival of her girlfriend.
Her instincts had never left her, and a playful smile danced on her pale lips as Beka snuck up behind her, and tapped her on the left shoulder. The kiss on her neck was well received before Beka reacted to the programme with some of her usual mischievousness.
" Hey, I'm glad that you do, and oh .. there'll be more of that gorgeous view later" she teased back, choosing her words deliberately as she grinned at Beka.
== Tag Beka ==
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Beka Sydesh - 05-31-2024
“I’m glad to hear it,” Beka replied with a wolfish grin as her bright green eyes held the eye contact with Aeryn. “It’s what I’m here to see. And hey, maybe I can put a little show on myself.” The smirk on her lips was positively filthy, before she laughed and looked out over the lake.
It had been a long time since Sydesh felt this good about herself. The injury had hammered her confidence, and that was something she really needed to thrive. Miller hadn’t really seen this side to her before. The Beka that she knew was maybe 75% of how she normally was. Now that extra spark was back, for better and for worse.
“So what’s in the basket?” the doctor asked, looking back at her girlfriend. “I know we’re supposed to work up the appetite first, but hey. I’m always hungry.”
She leant her head against Aeryn’s shoulder, resisting the temptation to go rummaging around for something that she liked.
I think I mean in the basket. Probably.
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Aeryn Miller - 05-31-2024
The response from Beka and the way her girlfriend held eye contact for just the right amount of time, was met with an equally filthy grin from Aeryn. " Exactly, and I look forward to it if you do". Regardless of her inner turmoil and the uncertainty regarding her future, Beka always made things better, allowing Aeryn to forget and just be someone in love, and who enjoyed the time they got to spend together. Time was often cut short because of their duties, but now they were on leave, which changed everything.
It was also easy to see the positive change in Beka since her recent surgery and as her fellow redhead enquired about the contents of the picnic basket, Aeryn couldn't help but grin at the comment she made about her appetite " All of our favourite snack food, sandwiches, cake, juice and yes you are, but I still love you, and we can eat whenever you want".
Aeryn had a pretty decent appetite, and even though that had lessened to a degree lately, was ready to enjoy a full-on smorgasbord of treats with Beka. Aeryn also liked it when Beka leaned against her shoulder, and for the first time since entering the holodeck she felt content.
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Beka Sydesh - 06-05-2024
"All of our favourite snack food, sandwiches, cake, juice and yes you are, but I still love you, and we can eat whenever you want."
“All of it? That’s a mighty bold boast there. And pretty much impossible.” Beka’s eyebrows flicked up suggestively before she laughed. “Although I love that you’ve tried!”
The redheaded doctor picked out a can of her favourite Bajoran cola, flicked it open one-handed and took a long slug straight from the can. She quickly and unashamedly stacked her plate with a selection of chicken and Scotch eggs and tucked in.
“Oh, this is amazing,” she said, ripping into a chicken drumstick. “What’s the sauce? I’m gonna need the recipe. Or the replicator code.”
Sydesh looked out across the lake again.
“So… Chief Science Officer, eh?” she asked. “I gotta admit, I didn’t see that coming! From what I’ve heard of that away team, I thought you did pretty well out there all things considered. I guess not well enough for you?”
She looked back at Aeryn, curious to see her girlfriend’s reaction to the question. Beka wasn’t being reproachful at all. Her surprise had been genuine, especially when it came to how fast everything had fallen into place.
“I’m amazed it all happened so fast though. I mean, being selfish, I’m glad you’re not a front line combatant any more, but it’s a real change for you. Did you get much time to think about it?”
Her emerald eyes betrayed her curiosity as she took another bite from the chicken.
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Aeryn Miller - 06-05-2024
" I think you'll be pleasantly surprised," Aeryn remarked, knowing what Beka was getting at before her girlfriend laughed and told her how she loved what Aeryn had tried to do. The redhead might still be new to dating the opposite sex, but the principals were pretty much the same, especially with the amount of effort that she had put in to make this date as perfect as it could be.
Once Beka had filled up her plate and fetched a can of her favourite cola, Aeryn did the same, with the only difference being her choice of beverage. As much as she enjoyed the Bajoran cola, Aeryn had opted for a bottle of orange juice, while her girlfriend complimented the chicken and asked about it.
" I'll confess that I got some help from the staff in ten forward, so I'm sure that they'd be happy to pass on the recipe for the sauce" she admitted, before taking a bite of her ham salad sandwich. When Beka then brought up the subject of her recent promotion, Aeryn knew it was only inevitable and Beka deserved to hear the truth.
" Yeah, neither did I to be honest, and you're right. I did do okay out there, but at the same time, it made me question a few things, and was I really happy continuing with security".
Aeryn knew that Beka was genuine with her questions, seeing the curiosity that was hidden behind those dazzling emerald green eyes. Following her conversation with Damian, Aeryn had also been surprised as to how quickly everything had fallen into place, but took it as a positive, especially when it came to her mental health, and wanting to be happy. That was a good thing about being on Artemis and Aeryn was thankful to the command staff for making it happen.
" So am I, and agree it is a massive change, but it's one that I'm really excited about, and it's something I'd been thinking about once I got back to Artemis".
== Tag Beka ==
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Beka Sydesh - 06-07-2024
Beka wasn’t entirely surprised to hear that Support had been involved in the picnic - Cera’s purple-shirted army seemed to be involved in pretty much everything at some point.
Although I can imagine that help being withdrawn if Aeryn ever told them it was me joining her. I’m still unforgiven for whistling…
The thought amused the doctor. Support had been nothing but courteous when she’d needed to call on them professionally, and there had never been anything explicit to say she had been blacklisted for crossing Lt Morgan. But either way, she had never asked, and they had never offered. At some point Sydesh would likely atone for her transgression, but until then, she was admiring the perks of their help from afar.
Still never got my bomber jacket…
"So am I, and agree it is a massive change, but it's one that I'm really excited about, and it's something I'd been thinking about once I got back to Artemis."
As Aeryn spoke, Beka accounted for a sizeable chunk of the food on her plate. Her appetite was coming back now that she was free to exercise again. But a frown settled on her brow as her girlfriend stopped.
“That it?” Sydesh replied. “That’s all I get about such a big life decision? I mean, I know we haven’t exactly been going long, but still… That’s a huge call. Your whole career progression, and how you fit on the ship, and where a lot of other people all sit… That’s all changed. Everything revolves around lab reports, whilst Security ends up under the command of someone less good whilst you’re still around to watch it go downhill. And I don’t really get why.”
She sighed and unwound a little.
“Sorry, I don’t mean to ruin everything. You just caught me by surprise is all.”
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Aeryn Miller - 06-08-2024
Aeryn knew the instant that she stopped speaking that she should have said more, but the reality of what she had just done still hadn't fully sunk in. If she was completely honest, she had just wanted to do something fun and spend time with her girlfriend without the added pressure of her career change. However, the redhead soon realised it wasn't that simple, not when Beka reacted like she did, cutting through Aeryn's heart like a knife.
Just when she thought that she had it all figured out, and felt better because of it, everything now came running at her full force, especially the guilt she had experienced whilst weighing up her decision. She knew deep down that she was doing the right thing for her sanity, and for everyone's safety, but at the same time she didn't need that reminder. Maybe she deserved it, and if she could turn back time would that have made her change her mind?
Probably not
Regardless of the what-ifs, Beka deserved a proper answer, and as such Aeryn took a deep breath as her girlfriend apologised. " You haven't ruined everything, and I appreciate that this came as a surprise, but you deserve more than I gave you, so if anyone needs to apologise it's me".
Aeryn didn't stop, wanting to get this out while she had the strength to do so, and before it all got sucked out of the nearest airlock. " I never thought that I would ever make such a huge decision like that, and believe me, I spent a lot of sleepless nights agonising over what I should do. I know I should have said something because I could have done with some support, but I felt ashamed and didn't want to burden you when you had your own shit to deal with. Getting injured, having to go through further surgery to fix the damage, and that whole ******* debacle of a mission was a turning point for me. Yes, I know Science isn't as action-packed as Security, but I desperately needed a change, a new focus and I wouldn't just hand over my department to someone who's going to run it into the ground".
She'd given her recommendation for who her replacement should be, and Aeryn knew that Beka would run the department as smoothly as she had done. There had been no regrets, and she hoped that Beka would understand and support her. Aeryn also needed to tell her the rest, which she'd been keeping as a surprise.
" There's something else too, something I was keeping as a surprise. Chief of Science wasn't the only promotion that I got".
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Beka Sydesh - 06-16-2024
Beka was silent as she listened to Aeryn, just taking it all in. The redhead was still learning when to be quiet but even she knew this was one of those moments.
“Yes, I know Science isn't as action-packed as Security, but I desperately needed a change, a new focus and I wouldn't just hand over my department to someone who's going to run it into the ground."
“I know.” Beka leaned in, resting her head on her girlfriend’s shoulder. “It just caught me by surprise, is all. I mean, I knew you enjoyed tending to gardens. Just didn’t know how deep the love for biology and botany ran. You’ve got hidden talents.”
There was a smile on the redhead’s lips as she spoke.
“And there was a part of me that was like… Calleja? Really?” she added, sitting up straight again. “But then I sat and thought about it. I know I blamed her for me getting hurt, but it wasn’t her fault. She put her life on the line for me. She got a team together, put in a plan that was proof against everything except me being a raging hothead, and got us all out again. My family are living in her apartment for crying out loud. And she hadn’t even met me. She did it anyway. Even though I’ve been nothing but a cow to her since. Maybe you can help me broker a ceasefire?”
Sydesh sighed. She had been feeling guilty for a while about how she’d behaved towards the person who had saved her life at least twice in the space of a few hours.
"There's something else too, something I was keeping as a surprise. Chief of Science wasn't the only promotion that I got," Aeryn added.
“Oh really? Do I need to break out the champagne?” Beka replied with a big smile. “Well. I would if I kept any. We can pretend.”
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Aeryn Miller - 06-17-2024
" You're probably not the only one who is going to be surprised by me changing departments" Aeryn replied softly as her girlfriend rested her head against her shoulder. There was a lot of truth behind the redhead's response, remembering Damian's reaction to it when she had first discussed it with him. When Beka continued, Aeryn smiled as she thought about the research station, and how she had always loved getting her hands dirty through developing her love of Botany.
" Something like that, my love of Botany started as early as I can remember, and all I wanted was to be a Botanist, but things didn't quite work out that way. But now I have the chance to rediscover all of that and pursue something different".
Despite the initial doubts and wondering if she could pull this off, Aeryn had to remind herself of how it all had begun, and how going back to her science roots was going to be worth it. As Beka sat up and spoke about Mara, Aeryn understood her girlfriend's reaction and why she ultimately wanted to change that perspective, having been privy to both sides of the story. Upon hearing Beka's request, Aeryn didn't have to think about it, because it would only be a good thing for her and Mara to clear the air, and work out any grievances, especially since they both mattered to Aeryn.
" Of course, I can help with that. I would like nothing better than for you two to get on".
Whatever that took to make it happen, Aeryn would try her best to facilitate the ceasefire between the two women. Then the subject changed momentarily when Beka reacted to Aeryn's surprise. " We can definitely pretend that we have champagne, as I've been promoted to Lieutenant Commander".
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Beka Sydesh - 06-28-2024
Beka felt reassured listening to Aeryn. The new CSO seemed to have it all planned out. How she’d fit into her new department, where her future lay, and how to keep her girlfriend from getting murdered by the Omega level threat that was stalking the gym.
That last one is definitely important!
"We can definitely pretend that we have champagne, as I've been promoted to Lieutenant Commander."
“Oh?” Beka sat up. “That’s definitely worth a drink! Now we have 2 Commanders on the crew and they’re both being called crazy for their choice in partners!” She grinned, and the smile was genuine - she was really pleased for the other redhead.
“That’s got to be worth a reward. What can we do?” the doctor asked. “What do you really like doing, Commander Miller?”
The grin was only getting bigger as Beka playfully nudged Aeryn in the ribs.
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Aeryn Miller - 06-29-2024
Even speaking her new rank out loud, only made it seem more real than Aeryn could have ever imagined, and how upon some reflection it had been well-earned, despite her modesty when it came to such things. It was time for the redhead to accept that she could be proud of her achievements, even if she only ever thought that she was simply just doing her job. The higher-ups had clearly seen something in her, and she would embrace this change with her head held high, while never forgetting the path that had led her to it.
Beka's reaction was just as genuine as Aeryn had anticipated, knowing that her girlfriend was being playful regarding her comment about Aeryn and Damian's choice of partners. " I think so too, and I wouldn't call me crazy for choosing you Beka Sydesh, but if they ever did I don't care, because you're the best thing that's happened to me in a long time".
It was true, Aeryn didn't care what other people thought about her being with Beka, because while she had never thought about embarking on another relationship, Beka had made her feel so loved and special, that she didn't want to be with anyone else. When Beka then playfully nudged her in the ribs and hinted at the possibilities open to Aeryn regarding a reward to celebrate her promotion, Aeryn grinned, not that she had to think about it for very long.
" I suppose it does, and hmmm, I can think of a few things" she teased as she leaned over and kissed her girlfriend.
RE: When Two Worlds Collide - Aeryn Miller - 10-19-2024
== Chief Of Science Quarters - 22:30 hrs, night before launch ==
Aeryn knew that the smart thing would be to head straight for bed and get as much sleep as possible, before returning to the science lab ahead of the ship leaving DS9. However, that was easier said than done, considering the events of the evening that had begun with what had been an emotionally charged briefing. It hadn't stopped there either following the emergency meeting with Lucy, leaving the science chief wired and unable to shut down. She hadn't even been able to fully process it all, and so, upon arriving back at her quarters, Aeryn had not only called Beka asking her to stop by, but she had also poured a decent amount of whiskey into a crystal tumbler.
A little extravagant perhaps, but it was Aeryn's favourite as she took the first sip and let the alcohol burn into a pleasant crescendo. Between sips, Aeryn stripped out of her uniform, into something more comfortable, in this case, a light blue short pj set, and let her long hair loose.
While it would by no means ease her current thoughts and feelings, it was a start as she replicated some nachos and chicken tenders, realising that it was probably a good idea to eat something while drinking. Once it was all ready, Aeryn placed the plates on the coffee table, along with something for Beka to drink, and then sat down on the sofa, closing her eyes briefly to stave off the inevitable adrenaline crash.
== Tag Beka ==