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+--- Thread: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters (/showthread.php?tid=667)
AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Daniel Brooks - 04-13-2026
==SEE WIKI==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Jez Mala - 04-21-2026
Jez was sitting there , relaxing trying to figure out how she was going to navigate the complex legal issues she would be facing. She knew her family wasn’t as well placed in Betazoid Society, not that the Sixth house was bad or anything just when compared to the Ninth house and the Ukinix family. Jez was just about to send a communication when the comm system activated
[ Lieutenant Mala, Report to my ready room. Captain Brooks out.]
Jez looked up to the ceiling out of habit and said, “Aye sir, on my way.”
Jez wasn’t sure why the Captain was asking to see her, maybe he was going to give her an answer about being the godfather to be baby? Jez quickly got into her uniform.
>> Ready Room.>>
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Alexander Talion - 05-13-2026
== Written with permission from the other character’s writer to make as a joint post… ==
Beno opened an eye and thought she was seeing things. Maybe she was still dreaming. She had to still be dreaming. There was no way that she was seeing the faint beams of sunshine beginning to creep along the floor from a sunrise.
She half rolled over onto her back when she bumped into someone and she froze. Cautiously, she reached a hand behind her and felt a bare backside of a person and her eyes went a little wider. Turning more carefully, the other person shifted as she moved and rolled towards her, onto their back. Still groggy, she rubbed at her eyes and yawned, struggling to shake the cobwebs from her mind. The room was slowly becoming brighter, revealing…Alex. She was in bed with Alex. A quick lift of the sheet confirmed, yep, they were both still naked.
Beno lay her head back on the pillow and tried to finish waking up. There was a tiny hint of a remaindered that she had been drinking at the party, but it hadn’t been much. Then it all started flooding back into her mind. The dance, the kiss and the connection. After that dance, they could barely stop touching each other. Hands, a leg touching the other, maybe a shoulder, it had been like young teens and a first crush or something. She knew it seemed silly, but it was almost comical in a way and it only got stronger after they had left the party.
She was waking up more now, Alex shifted again and rolled her direction, draping an arm across her chest and snuggling up to her closer, but still dozing. She suppressed a smile, but just barely, because the memories continued to flood in. They had quite the night. She had never had the shared experience of last evening. The mingling of your thoughts and emotions with that of another person was more intimate than words could really describe. It had been more intoxicating than any drug and it gave her a tiny shudder just thinking about it. The experience had certainly taught her a great deal about the Betazoid culture and how it made so much more sense now. Her eyes had been opened to something she had mostly discounted before.
It was only then that it occurred to her that although part of her was exhausted, she also felt exhilarated. She had not slept that well in a long time. Now that she was awake, she realized that she was thinking more clearly than she had in months. Without the thoughts and emotions of another in her head, she felt as if she could hear every little sound and see every dust mote that hadn’t been filtered out of the air yet.
Realizing there was something under her shoulder, she reached over and found…a stuffed bunny. Her eyes went wide at another memory. The smell of strawberry scented shampoo and the image of various types of animals printed on a pink, thin, fuzzy fabric. She had been curled up with Reyna at some point. For just a second, she felt embarrassed and confused, but then it suddenly fit. Beno didn’t recall getting out of bed, but had a fuzzy recall of being lead by the hand and then falling back asleep with a very warm comforting feeling. Reyna had curled up with her to help her fall back asleep…but it was more than that. She had felt from Reyna a deep joy in that brief moment. She was starved for a maternal figure and here was Beno showing no fear or reservation, curling up with her and them falling asleep.
Naturally, Beno had not done so intentionally, but to Reyna, seeing her have no shame or hesitation at all as she stood naked in the night, it would have seemed the behavior of a Betazoid mother to take her hand and curl up without saying a word. She had a moment to wonder what she had gotten herself into when Alex began to stir.
His breathing picked up a bit and he pulled closer to her, giving a small moan of approval as he did so. When he rose up on one arm he looked at her appreciatively and smiled. She had a feeling they were both going to be smiling a bit for a while, it was hard not to. Alex leaned in and kissed her. It wasn’t long, but it was soft and genuine and she kissed him back.
From the doorway Reyna said, “Ah, you have fluffy.” She came over and picked up the rabbit and sat on the edge of the bed trying not to make Beno self-conscious about being naked under the sheet, so she looked back out the doorway as she said, “I think your spots are very beautiful. I’m just a tiny bit jealous, because seeing yours makes me wish I had such spots, but I’m just me. I’ve never seen so many spots on a person.” She turned to smile at Beno, “Even without the spots, you’re very pretty, what do you think, dad?”
Alex chuckled, “Oh, I’m quite a fan, though I have to say I’m rather fond of the spots as well.”
Reyna got up and walked out of the room with her rabbit but as she cleared the doorway, some light struck Beno in the eyes and she held up a hand, “What is that light?”
Alex ran a hand down to her thigh as he looked at the door and said, “The sunrise, what did you think it was?”
Not being shy, Beno pushed him onto his back and rolled to lean over him, putting a hand on his chest and pressing against him, “It can’t be a sunrise, we’re not in a system right now.” She then started to get out of bed.
He took the hint and began to get out of bed too, tossing the sheet aside, “No, it’s a holographic program I have installed. It replaces the entire outer wall when I want it to and I like waking up to a sunrise”
Alex boldly walked over and took her hand. Beno glanced toward the door as if to ask a question, but Alex said, “Don’t worry, she doesn’t want to embarrass you. Besides, I think we both need a good shower after last night.”
He lead her into the wash area and discovered an actual shower with a water recycling unit. He chuckled again, “Don't stop now. If you don’t recall, we’re long past being shy. Besides, people who shower together have the cleanest backs.”
The water was hot and felt amazing. Alex rubbed her neck and shoulders for her as well, reminding her of things she had not had in a while. They got a good look at each other’s scars in the light of the new day and perhaps lingered longer than they needed to, but turned it off before they began to prune up too much.
Alex handed her a big soft towel and used another to begin drying her back, “So, can I interest you in some breakfast?”
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Beno Velaul - 05-16-2026
It really was a magical evening between them, it was a long time since she had done anything like this. Beno had kept the shield up so long that the Uniform was almost all she remembered, not the personable side. When it was her and Alex the feeling was more than she could have expected, everything about it made her feel special. The twisting of two bodies to form one, with their emotional closeness seemed to amplify every stimulation no matter how small.
After everything calmed down, Beno was in a state she hadn't felt since she was married. Out of breath and extremely tired, having a little cuddle buddy made it even more special. She wasn't sure how long Beno was alert for before going back to sleep, until waking up again with the odd feeling. A misplaced pillow? or a bunny. A symbol of childhood innocence that made her smile again, she didn't think that it belonged to Alex.
“Ah, you have fluffy.” Came a sweet voice at the door. “I think your spots are very beautiful. I’m just a tiny bit jealous, because seeing yours makes me wish I had such spots, but I’m just me. I’ve never seen so many spots on a person.” She turned to smile at Beno, “Even without the spots, you’re very pretty, what do you think, dad?”
Alex chuckled, “Oh, I’m quite a fan, though I have to say I’m rather fond of the spots as well.” She loved the extra added effect of watching the sun rise, something people loved to watch on any planet. In Space it was always the same thing, darkness and stars.
Reyna got up and walked out of the room with her rabbit but as she cleared the doorway, some light struck Beno in the eyes and she held up a hand, “What is that light?”
Alex ran a hand down to her thigh as he looked at the door and said, “The sunrise, what did you think it was?”
Not being shy, Beno pushed him onto his back and rolled to lean over him, putting a hand on his chest and pressing against him, “It can’t be a sunrise, we’re not in a system right now.” She then started to get out of bed.
He took the hint and began to get out of bed too, tossing the sheet aside, “No, it’s a holographic program I have installed. It replaces the entire outer wall when I want it to and I like waking up to a sunrise” It was nice to hear regular conversations about everyday things, no command decisions or who needs to do what. Just the family environment, and it was real cute.
Alex boldly walked over and took her hand. Beno glanced toward the door as if to ask a question, but Alex said, “Don’t worry, she doesn’t want to embarrass you. Besides, I think we both need a good shower after last night.” It was true that Beno needed to take a shower, then the thought came up that there was no sonic in the shower. "Don't worry about it." Beno said. "I have nothing to be ashamed of." Beno got up and gave Reyna a hug, she didn't really care where her clothes were at the time. With the extra cuddling last night, she seen everything anyways.
He lead her into the wash area and discovered an actual shower with a water recycling unit. He chuckled again, “Don't stop now. If you don’t recall, we’re long past being shy. Besides, people who shower together have the cleanest backs.”
The water was hot and felt amazing. Alex rubbed her neck and shoulders for her as well, reminding her of things she had not had in a while. They got a good look at each other’s scars in the light of the new day and perhaps lingered longer than they needed to, but turned it off before they began to prune up too much. There was something to be said for how intimate this truly felt, the feeling of being close to someone and the hot water that went down their skin. For the first time she presented herself exactly as she was, he would know how special this really was for her.
Alex handed her a big soft towel and used another to begin drying her back, “So, can I interest you in some breakfast?” Beno nodded.
"Yes I think its best for both of us, we are going to need the energy after everything we did." Beno winked at Alex, she wasn't ready to put on a uniform until she really needed too. "I always did love crapes, Carley would surprise me with them every now and again. Until I met her, I never had them before and now I think they are delightful." She smiled thinking about what to wear, other than the normal clothes.
==Tag==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Alexander Talion - 05-17-2026
Alex slipped on a loose pair of cargo shorts and a loose shirt that would have been right at home on some beach shoreline. At hearing about her fondness for crapes, he smiled and said, "That's awesome! We love crapes."
Reyna was still in her nightshirt that came down to about her knees, but jumped up and down in a very animated way, clearly excited. It was a rare moment of Reyna acting like a small child of her age instead of sounding like a small adult. In that way, the morning felt more normal than ever. Reyna hadn't said anything, but seeing Beno shrugging off the more common ideas about nudity and seeming to embrace the lack of shame that their family had about just being a close family, she seemed happier than Beno could ever recall seeing her before. The girl was practically glowing as she ate her breakfast and drank her glass of juice.
It was halfway through Reyna's second helping of crapes that she finally spoke up. Tilting her head from side to side as she began, her gaze finally meeting Beno's eyes again, "Beno? Um...well...I have to ask, because I know lots of things, but this is new territory for me. Does this make you my new mom now?"
Alex almost choked on a bite of food and had to struggle to wash it down with a quick sip of hot coffee. He opened his mouth as if to speak, but then seemed to think it was a bad idea and closed his mouth, waiting to see how Beno handled the question. He realized that he could dive in and try to handle this, but that if Beno was going to be around them like this and if there really was any chance for a real relationship, he needed to let her take this one. This was going to set the stage in one way or another and it was best to see what happened. In Reyna's way, as was often the case, she cut right to the heart of things. She wasn't a typical kid, but if Beno didn't know what she was in for by now, then she never would. The truth was that Alex and Reyna were a package deal. They were unusual in their own unique ways, but he was a single dad and both of them tended to speak with a direct and honest approach at times. This was one of those times. Alex also knew that this was not going to be a single yes or no question either. He knew his daughter and there would be follow-up questions.
== Tag Beno ==
== This is based in part on my own blended family. I was a single dad and my soon to be wife was a single mom. Her youngest daughter (now my youngest daughter) sat down with me at our first official meeting as a potential family and boldly asked exactly what my intentions were with her mother. I have never forgotten that bold little girl and I'm still proud to have her call me dad. She is still bold and a mom of her own kids now. It will be very interesting to see how Beno does with her "interview" from a 6 year old. ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Beno Velaul - 05-17-2026
This was a great way to start the day, a nice family breakfast. It was nice just to sit down and enjoy each others company. The upcoming question should have been anticipated, from the reaction of Alex it wasn't. "Beno? Um...well...I have to ask, because I know lots of things, but this is new territory for me. Does this make you my new mom now?" It was a good question that every child in this position would ask, as a child Velaul had a few memories of being in all positions. Both mother Father and even Child, out of all of them the Child part was the hardest.
"Sweetie." Beno started. "Your Mom will always have a special place in your heart, special memories that mean a lot to you. As you have a special place in mine, we can create new memories that mean something to us. If you feel comfortable enough to consider me a new mom, I will leave it to you. We can have any kind of relationship you want, I will love you like my own no matter what." Beno wanted to make sure that Reyna knew she wasn't trying to replace anyone, and their relationship will go at her pace.
==Tag==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Alexander Talion - 05-18-2026
Reyna appeared stunned at first and set down her fork, looking at her plate, "I never got to meet my mother. The closest I have are some holograms and my dad's memories that he shares with me sometimes." She took a deep breath and let it out slowly, turning to look at Beno, "I can feel that you really mean what you just said." A tear started to trace a slow trail from the corner of one eye, "You said it from your heart, like when dad does."
They, in a flash, Reyna exploded from her chair and practically dove at Beno, wrapping her arms around her and burying her face in Beno's neck. Alex stood from his chair out of reflex, but then stopped, staring at his daughter and Beno as he felt the exchange between them on a level you couldn't just see with your eyes, he felt it as the Betazoid parent that he was. It made him slow down and approach to take a knee next to his daughter.
After a few long seconds, Reyna loosened her grip on Beno and pulled back far enough to look at her. The little face was wet with tears and Beno could feel more of those tears left on her, mingling with her spots. Reynad still had her arms around Beno's neck, but she turned to look at her dad for a second and gave him a smile that defied description. Alex looked at her and was starting to tear up himself as he simply said softly, "I know..."
What Beno couldn't really put to words was what was transferred in that moment. It wasn't exactly a telepathic word or a specific emotion. There was no specific image shared. What was there, was an overpowering mental and emotional embracing of maternal instinct and the love of a child. Reyna dearly loved her dad and he loved her more than life itself, but neither of them could bring back her mother. Reyna had never known a mother...until now. That love now flowed from her with complete abandon. A child's deepest heartfelt desire. A secret wish granted.
Alex met Benno's eyes and mouthed silently the single word, "Wow!"
== Tag Beno ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Alexander Talion - 05-19-2026
== Lt Mala's Quarters ==
== NPC Lt Andrea Tate ==
There was a ring of Mala's door chime. When the door opened, the familiar face of Andrea Tate was smiling at Mala. Dressed in civilian attire, but a small bag slung over one shoulder, she stepped inside.
"Hello again Jez. My condolences. You're looking good."
Andrea glanced around the place to get a feel of how things had changed to Jez since she last saw her.
== Tag Mala ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Beno Velaul - 05-19-2026
"I never got to meet my mother. The closest I have are some holograms and my dad's memories that he shares with me sometimes." She took a deep breath and let it out slowly, turning to look at Beno, "I can feel that you really mean what you just said." A tear started to trace a slow trail from the corner of one eye, "You said it from your heart, like when dad does." In this moment Benos heart sank a little, there was a special feeling that she was going through. One that Beno had felt once before, this time it was more than a little stronger.
She wasn't sure if it was because Reyna was Betazoid, or if it was something bigger. There is a special bond that is formed between mother and child, when Reyna hugged Beno she got emotional. Tears streamed down her cheeks as the two girls hugged, it was more like a Mother embracing her Daughter. Until this moment Beno didn't fully realize that she had a desire to have a daughter, now that she did it was a truly beautiful moment.
Reyna practically melted her heart from the moment they met, cute little one who reminded her of pure innocence. As they embraced each other a little more, Beno was completely speechless. It took a couple of minutes for her to say anything at all. She knew at that second that Reyna made up her mind, a choice that Beno held sacred.
Alex could tell that Beno was attempting to say something, it was just the words were not coming out. Finally Beno gained enough composure. Beno talked directly into Reynas ear softly. "I will always be there for you, if you ever want to talk about anything I will always be there." Beno knew that there were certain conversations that a girl needs to have with another, just like there were conversations that were needed to be held between men.
"It is only now I fully realize what I have been missing all these years, I got so busy with what I was doing and not so much what I came home too." She never really thought of it until that moment, now that she had it was hard to think about anything else. "Perhaps a little later we can do something on the holodeck, do you have any suggestions?" She asked Reyna there might be something she wanted to do, like go to a park of some sort. The only thing that Beno hoped was no swimming, Beno still needed to work on that.
==Tag==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Alexander Talion - 05-20-2026
At first, Reyna had felt embarrassed about crying like she did, but when she then saw that Beno had started crying too, it made her feel even better. They weren't tears of sadness, they had been tears of joy. She tried hard not to let her emotions get carried away, but sometimes they still did. It wasn't always a bad thing, but she was starting to learn more control. Being half Betazoid could be very confusing as a kid and she had read about it, but living it was much harder than it sounded in the books. Right at that moment, her heart felt like it wanted to burst through her chest. She knew that her dad liked Beno and wasn't surprised that they had finally kissed. She was a little surprised that she seemed to have missed something and that they were already pair bonding, apparently even including mating. Reyna was happy for her dad, but had felt a little cautious until breakfast took such an unexpected turn. In her entire life, she had never felt what she had just experienced, so this was no time to hold back.
Reyna glanced at her dad and said, "My dad likes surfing, but it really isn't my thing. I can do it, but I just don't feel it like he does. I really like the water though, because it feels weightless, like space does, but it's full of life everywhere. When I was little, one of my favorite holovids was about a little fish and his friends. It was a cute story, but the diversity of such colorful and varied life forms fascinated me. I'm not very good at holding my breath yet, but I found out I didn't have to be. I use a full face rebreather. I redesigned it a little so that it is very light and comfortable and is good for up to a couple hours before you have to recharge it. Besides, by that time, your fingers get all wrinkled up anyway. Sorry, I get distracted when I get excited...um...anyway, I have a holodeck program of this amazing reef that is full of an amazing variety of real fish. It started as a training program for marine biology classes, but I convinced dad into modifying it a little so that it I can always have calm water, plenty of light, a clear view and nothing tries to eat me. There are more than 400 different species in the program and because it's a program, you won't even get hurt of you step on a sea urchin. Now that I think of it, there might even be a couple of things that look a bit like your...um...wait...was that rude?"
Reyna blushed a deep red, "I thought it might be a relatable thing, but now I worry that it might have been insulting. Social things can be so hard to figure out. Maybe this wasn't such a good idea after all. I just wanted to show you the clownfish and their amemo...anemem...(sigh and eye roll then slowly and deliberately) anemone." Reyna shook her head slowly, "I don't know why that name trips me up all the time. My dad says my brain is in a faster gear than my mouth sometimes and as hard as it might be to believe, he is actually right sometimes."
Reyna smiled and winked at Alex who smiled and winked back. It was obviously an inside joke between them about who was right more often. She then looked at Beno and smiled, relaxing as she did so, "He certainly must have done something right for you to pick him as your mate." She glanced at her dad, who began to object, but she returned her eyes to Beno's, saying as if it were an obvious fact, "We all know that statistically, with almost all species, it is the female that selects the male and he knows it, he just doesn't like to admit it." She wrinkled her nose playfully and nodded, "We know the truth."
== Tag Beno ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Jez Mala - 05-20-2026
Jez heard the door chime. She went to the door, and it swished open to reveal her beloved friend, Lieutenant Tate. Jez was so excited to see her friend, Andrea. Jez admired Andrea; she was smart, creative, and incredibly gifted. “ Andrea…!!!!I'm so glad you made it. Come. sit.
Andrea offered her condolences. Jez smiled, “Thank you, I appreciate that.” Said Jez. Jezz then looked at Mike and said, “ Try to behave yourself.”
Mike just rolled his eyes in annoyance. He stood up, like a gentleman, and introduced himself to Andrea. ” Hello, I’m Mike Denton, pleasure to meet you.”
“I’m sorry, Andrea, this is My Teddy Bear, I told you about, My sensi.”
“Arrrgghh, I’m not a Teddy Bear.” Protested Mike.
Jez couldn't help herself; she was no longer a child, intimidated by his authority. They were essentially equals, in that they both lost people they loved and cared about. She viewed Mike more as an older brother now. She still loved and respected him; it’s just her way of grieving, of dealing with her sadness.
Once Andrea took a seat, Jez spoke, “ I was hoping that you might be able to help us. Mike lost his wife, and you know about my parents. I don’t know if you heard about my custody battle? I don’t even know if you can help us, but…I.. Umh….I umh… I…“ Stammered Jez as she searched for her words, her voice starting to crack.
Tears started to well up in her eyes. Jez didn't want to cry, but the gravity of the situation couldn’t be suppressed. It flooded her mind, her parents were dead, not missing, not wounded, but dead.
Mike, feeling ever protective, reached over and placed his hand on Jez’s shoulder, “Hey…Hey, it will be alright. Your friend Andrea is here to help.” Said Mike.
Jez felt Mike’s big hand touch her shoulder; she felt a wave of calm wash over her. She left like she did when she was eight, safe, as if nothing could harm her. “Thank You.” Whispered Jez.
== Tag Tate/Talion .==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Alexander Talion - 05-20-2026
== Lt Mala's Quarters ==
== NPC Lt Andrea Tate ==
Once inside, and they began introductions, she said to Mike, "Hello. Very pleased to meet you Mike. I'm Lieutenant Andromeda Tate, but I prefer to be called Andrea as only my mother calls me Andromeda.I wish we were visiting under better circumstances, but Alex sent me word and offered me a ride that I had to see for myself, but that's another matter."
Andrea had something about her that you felt as soon as she entered the room. It was a comforting maternal sort of thing that was very calming and comforting. Jez recognized it right away, though she had forgotten about it until Andrea had walked in. It was almost like arriving at the home of a favorite aunt and smelling fresh baked cookies. Tate looked professional, yet comfortable. Her eyes gave a sympathetic look and her voice was almost always soft and pleasant.
Moving in to take a seat, she said, "Try to forgive her, Mike. As children grow up, they tend to feel the need to try and remind their adult figures that they are now adults, this eventually reverses itself to where they will treat their elders more as children. It is sometimes justified, but more often than not, it is a result of them starting to care for us more than we take care of them anymore. If they still seek your counsel as you get older, then you know you're still in good hands and they still remember." She turned to Jez, "Yes, Alex told me about your interesting conflict with your former lover. That situation is most unfortunate. Some people are quick to point a finger and say that you should have known, but the truth is that bad people often are quite skilled at hiding their true nature in order to get what they want. It doesn't help that it can be harder to see such things the closer you are to the situation. We are also often blinded by our own hearts when it is an intimate relationship, because we want it to turn out like we wish it would. It just means that you're the same as most of us and a bad guy took advantage of your good nature. Try not to beat yourself up over it. From the sounds of things, he's not worth giving him the space in your head rent free."
While Jez was fighting with herself to regain her composure and Mike was doing his best to comfort her, Andrea walked over and got two cups of herbal tea from the replicator and placed one in front of Jez. She took a sip and didn't rush her. Andrea just sat there for a good few minutes and let there be simple silence while Jez let the wave finish washing over her. Andrea let her almost completely recover herself before she spoke up again, deliberately catching her just a tiny bit off guard, "I notice you still seem to have an attraction to Alex." She held up a hand before Jez could protest, "I won't call it a crush or anything specific, but your voice changes still and your pulse picks up by a few beats. I also noticed that you don't have any other relationships that occupy that part of your life. It isn't as strong as the last time we spoke, but there's still something I can't quite put my finger on without trying harder than my conscience allows. I have to ask if it is just an attraction thing or perhaps a fantasy because he is safe and you know he won't hurt you like this last guy, but how would you classify it? I think it might be important, that's why I have to ask."
Andrea innocently sipped at her tea while she waited for Jez to answer.
== Tag Mala ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Beno Velaul - 05-20-2026
It didn't take long before Reyana to make a suggestion. "My dad likes surfing, but it really isn't my thing. I can do it, but I just don't feel it like he does. I really like the water though, because it feels weightless, like space does, but it's full of life everywhere. When I was little, one of my favorite holovids was about a little fish and his friends. It was a cute story, but the diversity of such colorful and varied life forms fascinated me. I'm not very good at holding my breath yet, but I found out I didn't have to be. I use a full face rebreather. I redesigned it a little so that it is very light and comfortable and is good for up to a couple hours before you have to recharge it. Besides, by that time, your fingers get all wrinkled up anyway. Sorry, I get distracted when I get excited...um...anyway, I have a holodeck program of this amazing reef that is full of an amazing variety of real fish. It started as a training program for marine biology classes, but I convinced dad into modifying it a little so that it I can always have calm water, plenty of light, a clear view and nothing tries to eat me. There are more than 400 different species in the program and because it's a program, you won't even get hurt of you step on a sea urchin. Now that I think of it, there might even be a couple of things that look a bit like your...um...wait...was that rude?" During the times that water was being mentioned, there was a level of fear that came from her. Out of everything that she had been through, the ship on ship battles and even being in a fire fight herself. The thing that stuck fear in her most was being in water, showers were fine but dunking her head under even bath water was out of the question.
Reyna blushed a deep red, "I thought it might be a relatable thing, but now I worry that it might have been insulting. Social things can be so hard to figure out. Maybe this wasn't such a good idea after all. I just wanted to show you the clownfish and their amemo...anemem...(sigh and eye roll then slowly and deliberately) anemone." Reyna shook her head slowly, "I don't know why that name trips me up all the time. My dad says my brain is in a faster gear than my mouth sometimes and as hard as it might be to believe, he is actually right sometimes." There was a classic statement that went "Out of the of the mouth of babes." or at least something like that. Beno wasn't mad about it, nor embarrassed. "Don't worry about it sweetie, it might not be a good thing to talk about out there. I would say its a very good observation, also shows a lot of imagination. In most fields of science imagination does help a lot, plus makes it a little more fun." Beno had a tone that wouldn't suggest being anything but parent mode, without anger or level of anything but encouragement. "Heck lets do some body art, you might have some good ideas there." This was one of those times where encouragement was better, hopefully some imagination time would help with the relationship.
Reyna smiled and winked at Alex who smiled and winked back. It was obviously an inside joke between them about who was right more often. She then looked at Beno and smiled, relaxing as she did so, "He certainly must have done something right for you to pick him as your mate." She glanced at her dad, who began to object, but she returned her eyes to Beno's, saying as if it were an obvious fact, "We all know that statistically, with almost all species, it is the female that selects the male and he knows it, he just doesn't like to admit it." She wrinkled her nose playfully and nodded, "We know the truth."
Beno blushed it was pretty sweet. "I would say that he did a lot of things right, his passion is what put it over the top for me." The thought never occurred to her that the only clothing that she had there was the dress from last night, the only thing she could do was borrow a shirt. As loose fitting as it was the shirt fit like a dress on her, most of the buttons were done up but four from the top. "What do you think?" This was a classic look of an unexpected sleep over, borrowing a t shirt of some kind. The more popular was the dress shirt, Beno was just having fun with it.
==Tag==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Alexander Talion - 05-20-2026
== Talion Quarters ==
Reyna was still in her own nightshirt, but giggled and gave a huge smile and two thumbs up, "I love it! I also love that it helps show off your gorgeous spots. Hey! Body art...you can give me some spots. They won't be as nice as yours, but I can pretend."
Her face suddenly turned to an expression of deep thought, "If you and dad have a baby, do you think it will have spots? I hope it will be a girl, because boys are SO annoying. Either way, I'll get to be a big sister though, so that will be amazing. I find it strange that so many animals are born able to walk and stuff right away, but people are practically in a larval stage when they're born and have to squirm and then crawl before being able to walk. Whoever thought that up did NOT think it through far enough. I found it very frustrating before I learned to walk. I really hated not being able to get around for a while. I'm so glad that crazy time is long behind me now. Now I just have to contend with short people issues until I get taller."
Alex just sipped at his coffee and watched them both. He had a huge grin on his face and couldn't recall the last time he ever felt so content as he watched the two of them together.
== Tag ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Beno Velaul - 05-21-2026
Beno thought about the question for a second, it was a good one. “There is a chance that yes if your dad and I were to have one they might get spots like mine, and there is a chance that like your dad might not get them at all. It would depend on how they are de…. Who they look like more.” There was a bigger explanation but she wasn’t sure how much would be understood. There was a bit of a mischievous voice that Beno had. “I am sure I know what your dad would enjoy most.” She gasped a second later. “Alex… Such thoughts…. Save them for tonight.” She said with a wink. Beno went to the replicator, and returned with what looked like a dermal regenerator, but it only did paint.
“I can give you spots like mine with this, they will be prettier than mine, we can use as many colours as you like. Plus we can make each other look like mermaids.” It was just a suggestion to get things started. “Or you can paint me any way you like.” For Beno it was a great bonding experience that she wouldn’t be able to do with Jason, he never did like painting of any kind. “What do you think? You want to paint first? Or be painted? First as well we need to get the paints ready.” Beno hsd no way of knowing how this was going to go, but it should be fun.
==Tag, I couldn’t resist. ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Jez Mala - 05-21-2026
Jez wasn’t sure of her feelings at this moment. Was she upset because her parents and extended family were dead, or was she crying because she wasn’t really devastated, that their deaths didn’t register on an emotional level, she didn’t have a strong emotional connection to her parents? Yes, they were her parents and extended family, but they were parents in the respect that they gave birth to her, nothing more. They were more focused on their careers. Jez was the last child born, maybe her parents felt if they raised three other successful children, they met their quota of good parenting;, she wasn’t sure.
I’m supposed to cry, I’m supposed to mourn, aren’t I ??
Jez sat there, Mike reassuring her that everything would be alright. She felt like she was a little girl again. She remembered the time that, as a child, she got lost in an Ancient Library for several hours. She was scared and hungry, and Mike found her. He scooped her up in his arms. He rocked her gently, telling her everything would be alright. Mike then carried her back to the Dig Camp and tucked her in. Mike had always been a father figure to her. Yes, he was gruff and grumpy at times, but still a Teddy Bear.
Mike sat there, and grimaced his face, when Andrea said, "Try to forgive her, Mike. As children grow up, they tend to feel the need to try and remind their adult figures that they are now adults; this eventually reverses itself to where they will treat their elders more as children. It is sometimes justified, but more often than not, it is a result of them starting to care for us more than we take care of them anymore. If they still seek your counsel as you get older, then you know you're still in good hands, and they still remember."
Why does everyone think I’m a doddering old man? Out of self-consciousness, Mike tried sucking in his stomach.
Jez noticed what Mike was doing, and a little smirk pulled on her lips. She then leaned over and whispered, “I don’t think Andrea is buying it, besides I don’t think you can hold your breath that long.”
Mike shook his head, as if to say, “I can’t catch a break.” He then casually let his stomach out. Mike sat there in silence listening to Andrea speaking to Jez, "Yes, Alex told me about your interesting conflict with your former lover. That situation is most unfortunate. Some people are quick to point a finger and say that you should have known, but the truth is that bad people often are quite skilled at hiding their true nature in order to get what they want. It doesn't help that it can be harder to see such things the closer you are to the situation. We are also often blinded by our own hearts when it is an intimate relationship, because we want it to turn out like we wish it would. It just means that you're the same as most of us, and a bad guy took advantage of your good nature. Try not to beat yourself up over it. From the sounds of things, he's not worth giving him the space in your head rent-free."
Mike looked at Jez, she had never mentioned having a lover, let alone she was having trouble with him? Mike knew Jez was a tad naive when it came to relationships. “Wait, Devynn mistreated you?” Said Mike, his tone a mixture of confusion and concern. He couldn’t help it; he was in full Daddy Bear mode, protecting the ones he loved, safe.
Jez chose not to discuss that chapter at this time, not with Mike here, it would be like discussing sex with your father. “No, Andrea, he hurt me on a physical and emotional level. The physical pain has healed, it’s just being called a useless mongrel, being called nothing.” Jez’s voice began to crack, “To be called a nothing, a nobody, and then he wants to take my baby.” Sobbed Jez.
Mike’s head was spinning; he had never seen Jez crying like that before. He placed his arms around her, in a bear hug, and began rocking her slowly, “Hey, come on now, you’re safe now, no one will hurt you, I won’t let them, and I’m sure Andrea and Cindy and Commander Talion and everyone else on board will protect and serve you.” He said, his tone warm and comforting.
What happened next would send a shockwave through the room. Jez broke free from Mike’s hug, and she slapped him across the face. “It’s going to be alright, it’s going to be alright. You’re going to protect me.. Protect me…!!! You couldn’t even protect my parents, our friends, YOUR wife!!!! “ Hissed Jez, tears flowing down her cheeks. “Get out...Get out…!!!" Hollered Jez, her voice filled with rage.
“Jez…” Stammered Mike, “I said get out, I don’t want to see you again.” Mike felt like he had been punched in the stomach. He looked to Andrea, as if to say,” What should I do?” Mike got up, “I’m sorry, Jez. I.. I… “ Stammered Mike as he couldn’t find his words. Mike composed himself, and he stood up. ”I’m going to leave. I’ll be in Ten Forward, if you need me.” Said Mike, his voice filled with vulnerability
Jez could feel her anger and rage, mixed with disappointment, surging through her body like a quick-moving poison. She couldn’t shake the image of her parents being killed and Mike nowhere to be found. As Mike walked towards the door, she screamed, “Where were you!!!” Sobbed Jez as she sat down and sobbed into her hands.
== Tag Andrea / Talion ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Alexander Talion - 05-21-2026
== Talion Quarters ==
Beno offered, "I am sure I know what your dad would enjoy most.”
Alex chuckled as he looked at her and fondly recalled the previous night, which instantly gave him pleasant thoughts from his vivid imagination about more of such experiences in her embrace. His brief lapse and allowing his mind to wander unguarded had the consequence of having forgotten that his mind was not entirely his own anymore and he quickly tried to keep his mind more on his surroundings as she gave him a playful scolding of sorts, but followed it with promises that she was looking forward to the same things.
The conversation had taken a turn though and he hadn't really had time to give serious consideration to the idea of them having a child together. It was then that he realized that the idea didn't bother him in the least. In fact, his overactive imagination briefly pondered the concept, but he was more careful. He was known for his deep thinking and wondered what course such a thing might take. What about her career and would they remain in Star Fleet? Perhaps he would stay home with the kids? What would she want to do? This might be a conversation they would need to have in the near future. For now, his heart found the idea of possibly making a life with Beno to be a very comforting thought. He had found love once and when his wife had died, he had resolved himself to live with his grief and that he had no right to expect that lightning might be able to strike again. The universe had given and the universe had taken away. However, the universe also doesn't like people thinking they have figured it out, so apparently lighting did strike again. The result was his heart having been filled once more, not just with the love for his daughter, but by some miracle a woman that could not only match him in many ways, but was able to surprise him in her own right. That was new for him. It then struck him that his sister would have loved her too.
Alex continued to watch them both, not wanting to look away. He loved them both and he didn't mind them knowing it.
== Tag Beno ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Alexander Talion - 05-21-2026
== Lt Mala's Quarters ==
== NPC Lt Andrea Tate ==
Andrea watched and listened. There were typically considered to be at least 5 stages to grief. Andrea preferred the version that listed 7. They include shock, denial, anger, bargaining, depression, testing, and finally acceptance. Sometimes a few of them might switch what order they appeared in, but that was of minor concern. They were witnessing some of those stages surfacing now and it was only normal.
When Mike went to leave, Andrea said to him softly, "Mike, you're both grieving, she's going to still need you, but give her some space right now. Thank you."
Once Mike had left, Andrea ignored the fact that Jez had completely avoided discussing what Andrea had brought up about her having other relationships, or rather the lack of them. That was fine, Andrea would circle back to that in time. For now, Jez had brought up something more important, "Jez, you clearly despise this man that you once trusted, so why would you care about what mean things he said to you as part of his abuse? The only reason that such words impact us is if somewhere deep inside ourselves, we have thought those things about ourselves. In fact, that's what such a bully is depending on. If you don't have those doubts somewhere inside you, then those words have nowhere to grab onto. You have to be strong enough and confident in your own worth for those words to bounce off of you. The problem is that everyone doubts themselves sometimes. People like him will always try to find those vulnerable parts of others and take advantage of them. From what I understand, he does this quite often and mostly just for his own enjoyment."
She let those words sink in for a moment before thinking out loud a bit more, "Your custody battle should be no issue. I'm familiar with Alex's legal team and I would NOT want to go against them. I wish that I could tell you more, but just know that you have more on your side than you know right now. I don't often gamble, but if I were to gamble, I would place a bet on your former boyfriend having a very bad life altering experience...if he's lucky. Alex is mostly a non-violent man...mostly. However, I have seen him violent and it scared the hell out of me. If Devynn lives through this, I will actually be surprised. He strikes me as the type of weasel that would get violent out of desperation if cornered and he will not win this fight. If he gets violence or is linked to what happened, I don't see him ever being delivered intact. If he is alive, it is because he got smart, but it would require a big change of course for him, so my money is on dead or catatonic."
Andrea gave a sigh and sipped her tea some more than concluded with, "No matter how you slice it, you should stop worrying about that rat. He will be out of your life. Heck, you might even be given part of his family's holdings, but that will require your child to be born first. There's a small chance you would be compensated personally, but courts hate it when people try using kids as weapons in personal matters and there is also the question of hereditary wealth redistribution and so on."
Andrea deliberately didn't give voice to the accusations Jez had thrown at Mike. Blame was part of the anger and often included resentment in that phase, so she wasn't going to feed it, just let Jez work her way through it. It could take a while before they might eventually get to the acceptance phase. These things could take time.
== Tag Mala ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Beno Velaul - 05-21-2026
With a steady hand Beno started painting Trill spots on Reyna just like hers, the sound coming from the machine was a hissing noise like air brushing. They looked almost exactly like hers, other than they came in fun colors. It also became clear that as time went on both became a little closer, the spots that Beno painted went all the way to the base of Reynas neck, perhaps a little later she might want more.
The more time that went by Beno could feel herself open up in ways never done before, Reyna had a way of doing that to her. Soon after the spots were painted on, Beno started to braid Reynas hair. It was an elaborate design that was like a weave that was tied in the back. Between the spots and the hair, it really heighted the young girls face, and the big smile that came along with it.
After Beno was done with the hair, she looked Reyna in the eyes. "Your spots look prettier than mine." She said with a smile. "What do you say shouldn't we take a picture of this?" Both Reyna and beno were facing Alex, both of them looked very happy. "What do you think?" Beno got behind Reyna and went down on her knees, Chin on Reynas left shoulder. "Like this I am sure that Carley would believe she is mine." It really was a cute look for her, the hair really put it over the top. "I just wonder now, what should we do today while we still can." Beno knew it was only a matter of time before she was needed in the Office again, soon it was going to be crew reports and the mission they were going to be on. Until then Beno was going to enjoy this.
==Tag==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Alexander Talion - 05-21-2026
== Talion Quarters ==
Alex was practically glowing with how much he radiated joy at seeing them both enjoying each other's company so much. He could do a great deal to be a good dad, but he couldn't be a mom. Reyna had wanted such contact and love for her entire life and for the first time, that wish had come true.
The mention of an image made Alex chuckle, "We can do even better than a single image, though that is simple to make. We have an entire holovid of your day, so we can make a hologram of the moment if you like. He tapped on his PADD and in less than a minute there was a photo of them in their pose, as well as a small device appeared on the table. He pressed a button and it lit up to show the two of them in perfect detail so that you could even see every spot.
"That is an amazing keepsake to carry around with me. I now have it on my PADD and can see it whenever I want. I have to say that it is going to be hard to get much work done now, but it is SO worth it." Reyna giggled as he added, "You two ladies look absolutely beautiful."
Reyn went over to the full length mirror and inspected herself, "I love my spots, but next time I think I want mine to look like yours, because then people will know you're my mom even when they see us from far away."
She ran over and practically dove at Beno, wrapping her arms around her, giving her a big kiss on the cheek and exclaiming, "This is the best day ever! I'm going to take that hologram to class and show everyone my new mom, otherwise they're never going to believe me when I tell them." Reyna then relaxed little, taking a deep breath and looking at Beno, who was still crouched down to her height, "Thank you. I really do mean it. You're wonderful. I've only been getting used to feeling other people and starting to control it and understand it for a few months now, but...some people are nice, but they often say things they don't really mean. When you talk to me, you talk with your heart. I don't know if you realize how rare that is."
Reyna looked at her dad and gave him a warm smile, "I love you both. I don't know how you did it, dad, but don't screw it up." The last part was with a very sassy grin. They had a very playful relationship, but Beno could feel the love between them. She could also feel how it now extended to her. Reyna then looked a little more serious as she said to her dad, "Dad, I think you can trust her. " She glanced at Beno and then back to her dad, "If you can't trust her, then I don't know if you can ever trust anyone. That's all I'm saying."
Alex paused. He took a breath and let it out slowly as the two of them shared a serious look for a few seconds. He then gave a nod and said, "Alright, I hear you. Now, how about you two figure out what you're going to do with the rest of your day. This is your first ever mother and daughter day, so let's not let it go to waste."
With that said, Reyna was back her giggles and hopping up and down with childish joy, "You're right! I should put something on, but I don't want to cover up too much of my spots. Sandals will work...hmmm...mom, help me find something to wear so we can go shopping. Man, this is the best day EVER!" As she passed the mirror again and looked at herself, she did a little happy dance, "I absolutely love my hair. You're going to have to teach me how you do that."
Alex gave a small laugh, and said to Beno, "Wow, you really know how to make an impression on a new daughter."
== Tag Beno ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Jez Mala - 05-22-2026
Jez felt awful for what she said to Mike, but she was just trying to understand. She hurt Mike; she instantly regretted what she said, but how can she take back what she said? Mike was the only family she had. Yes, her siblings were safe, her nanna was Safe on Betazed. She hadn’t spoken with her siblings in a few years. Yes, she sent communications to them, and they took weeks to reply, if at all.
. Jez looked at Andrea when she said, "Jez, you clearly despise this man that you once trusted, so why would you care about what mean things he said to you as part of his abuse? The only reason that such words impact us is if somewhere deep inside ourselves, we have thought those things about ourselves. In fact, that's what such a bully is depending on. If you don't have those doubts somewhere inside you, then those words have nowhere to grab onto. You have to be strong enough and confident in your own worth for those words to bounce off of you. The problem is that everyone doubts themselves sometimes. People like him will always try to find those vulnerable parts of others and take advantage of them. From what I understand, he does this quite often and mostly just for his own enjoyment."
Jez understood what Andrea was trying to say. Still, Andrea didn’t understand the emotional connection between the two incidents. Jez’s parents were distant, even cold, which in turn left Jez feeling like nothing, like she didn’t matter, that she wasn't important enough, and then to have Devynn called her nothing. Jez was a trained Security Officer; she should have seen Devynn for who and what he really was.
“Andrea, you don’t understand, I’m a trained Security Officer, if I couldn’t see Devynn for who and what he was, how am I going to be an effective Security Chief for the Captain? How am I going to tell him that I can’t see a criminal when one is right in front of me? So, Devyyn was right, I’m not a Security Officer, I’m nothing.” Declared Jez, her tone sounded defeated.
Jez wasn’t sure if she understood her own thoughts and feelings at this particular moment. A million questions were running around in her mind,
What do I tell my children about their grandparents? How do I answer their questions when they ask, " Who is their daddy? " and " Where is their daddy? Mike hates me. I have no idea what to do. No doubt Mike hates me now. Can the Captain trust my judgement as his Chief of Security?
“ Andrea, Devynn took my power of self-worth, my identity as a Security Officer. I want my power back,” announced Jez.
== Tag Andrea/ Talion. ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Alexander Talion - 05-22-2026
== Lt Mala's Quarters ==
== NPC Lt Andrea Tate ==
Andrea nodded as she sat and sipped her tea, "Now you understand why you can't work your own case. It's the same reason that doctors are not supposed to operate on their own family members. We've known for thousands of years that people see things differently when they are able to look at it objectively. If you're too close to a situation, your own emotions and desires get caught up in it and judgement often gets compromised. It is a rare thing that someone has a well enough trained mind to separate themselves enough to see it clearly."
After a moment, Andrea continued, "Jez, you're not the same woman that fell for his tricks. You've learned more and grown since then. This experience has shown you the danger, like burning your finger in a candle flame. You're relatively immune to his tricks and charms now. This has strengthened your resolve and you walk away the wiser for it. We can often learn things through the experiences of others, but sadly there are still times when we have to fall on our own faces to learn certain hard lessons. It happens to everyone. Sometimes you're simply in the wrong place and become a victim. Your parents and this custody battle likely have nothing to do with each other, but we'll find out. Either way, you can't blame yourself for risking your heart on a relationship and getting burned by it. There's always a risk, this guy just turned out to be a really bad one. Your training is still valid. Your skills are still as valuable as they were before. If anything, you know how to spot a guy like this better. The hard part is to not replace your rose colored glasses with a jaded heart. That's where friends and family come in."
Andrea decided to take another stab at her previous question, "I know that this might seem unrelated, but I want to ask you again, why you haven't tried to form many new relationships. There is clearly part of you that wants more friends and perhaps even someone intimate, and it isn't just Devynn that has scared you. You seem to be holding yourself back and that doesn't seem like your normal self. What happened to the strong and confident woman I knew before?"
== Tag Mala ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Beno Velaul - 05-23-2026
Doing only what she always wanted to do with a daughter, she felt natural doing this too. "She made an impression on me too, I also know that her Teacher would love to see the picture. I know that she has been meaning to get me to talk to the class for a while, but my position somehow got in the way. Now I have reason to do so." For some reason talking in front of a bunch of children made her nervous, definitely more nervous than talking in front of a room of diplomats.
"Let's go pick something for you to wear, and while we are at it me too." Both of them went into the room where Beno spotted the mirror, it was designed to show what people look like in different outfits. It was a fun invention that allowed people to try out many outfits without changing, it saved a lot of time. Beno stood infront of the mirror smiling. She wasn't sure what to wear. She wanted something that would look appropriate for both, Reyna was going to want the same thing.
Reyna had the idea of a sundress with a matching blue flower for the hair, the sundress went across the body three inches below the shoulders. On Beno the dress went to mid thigh, on Reyna it went to the knee. When Reyna had the dress properly fitted, Beno painted more spots so both would look alike.
Coming back out both had the same baby blue sundress and matching sandals, while Beno had the flower on her left Reyna had it on the right. "Shoulders are the woman's ultimate battle ground, the sports make it better." Beno went down on one knee beside Reyna. "Isn’t she cute?" This was the first time that Beno could do something like this, being other adults wasn't as fun. "We should go to the holodeck and Reyna can pick the program." Beno wanted her to pick something that might be fun, because Reyna was the important one today.
==Tag==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Jez Mala - 05-23-2026
Jez sat there, listening to her friend. Andrea's comment caught Jez off guard when Andrea said, "I know that this might seem unrelated, but I want to ask you again, why you haven't tried to form many new relationships. There is clearly part of you that wants more friends and perhaps even someone intimate, and it isn't just Devynn that has scared you. You seem to be holding yourself back, and that doesn't seem like your normal self. What happened to the strong and confident woman I knew before?"
That question puzzled Jez slightly, she had flirted with a few eligible and not so eligible men, She had built a relationship with she thought fondly of her relationship with Commander Sothrick back when she was on the Geronimo; their relationship was not lovers, but more than friends. It was like a brother-sister relationship. Yes, Sothrick was married, but Jez found him very attractive. He was a big, well-muscled man, kind, and very pleasant to talk to. Back in her Academy days, there was a Science Cadet, Jeremy Morse. Jeremy was Brilliant, a big, burly man with dirty blond hair and a rather chunky backside, but he could dance. During the Sadie Hawkins dance, Jeremy twirled her across the dance floor, as if he were a professional dancer. Then there was that one Summer that she spent with her Nana on Betazed, there was a boy named Zan Trell, a Big Handsome guy, who worked in her Nana’s garden. He was a powerful Telepath, but hopelessly devoted to a woman from the Seventh house. Then, in her junior year at the Academy, she had a crush on a visiting civilian professor, a middle-aged, heavyset, bearded man, who looked like the Terran mythological Santa Claus. It dawned on Jez that she was attracted to men of a certain body type, but also men who were unattainable to her. Then of course, there was Commander Talion, a big, imposing, well-built man. Not to mention Mike. Mike, whom she just screamed at.
Ewwweee….!!!!!Face it, Jez, you have a grandfather fetish
,
Jez felt a wave of embarrassment wash over her, but it was starting to make sense. These men embodied the father-protector type: men she was close to, men she could confide in, and men who protected her.
Jez didn’t know if she should laugh or cry. Why was she attracted to the men she couldn’t have? Was it daddy issues? Her father was not a well-built, fuller-figured man; her dad was an average-built man. If he were in a lineup, most people would overlook him. Yes, Jez loved him; he was kind and treated her well, but he was distant, some would say aloof. To Fet, Archeology came first. Jez would try to explain a personal problem, Fet would say, “Fascinating! Honey, Jez, I have work to do. Can this wait till later?”, and later would never come.
“Andrea, hypothetically, what if a woman is attracted to a… to,,,, to a,,, Husky man, exclusively? What is that called?” Inquired Jez. Jez wanted to crawl out of her skin right now; all she could see was the hurt in Mike’s eyes. How she hurt the kindest, gentlest man she had ever known. She had hurt her Teddy Bear.
== Tag Andrea/ Talion. ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Alexander Talion - 05-23-2026
== Talion Quarters ==
Alex smiled like the proud parent that he is, "Reyna actually tends to help teach the other kids in class. She can tell what they're having problems with and finds ways to get across what they're having issues with. She goes to the classes for socialization, because most of her actual assignments tend to be on the computer. The teacher has found ways to integrate her lessons, but Reyna isn't like most kids. she has tested out of standard public education already. She is already starting on classes to prepare her for a degree program, but she isn't sure what she wants to go into first."
Reyna watched with anticipation as Beno scrolled through clothing choices. When it came time to add more spots, Reyna was delighted. The more spots she got, the happier she was. Having seen Beno's spots went from head to toe, she hoped to get the same thing. She accepted the compromise of not having to get them everywhere, but she insisted on spots where people would see. The dress was very pretty and Reyna loved that the flower was on the other side so that when they looked at each other she was like a smaller mirror version, which made it perfect.
Beno asked about a program and Reyna seemed to think, "Seeing you with my dad last night was the first time I had seen you without your uniform, at least that I can recall. Are you okay with other people seeing you not in uniform? I know that you're comfortable around us, but are you good with others seeing you like this...with me?" Reyna looked down at her feet, showing her first sign of being a little shy. "I ask, because...it's hard to explain, but...I've never really had a mom before, so part of me really wants other people to see that I have one. Everyone else I know has a mom. This is a new thing for me and it feels important that other people see that you're my mom. I know that I shouldn't are what other people think of such things, but...I know I'm different and I'm fine with most of that. It's just that sometimes I wish I fit in a little more. I'm happy with the private me, but sometimes I feel out of place with the me that everyone else sees. Being different isn't always a great thing. Can we just spend some time shopping and walking around on the Promenade? Maybe get an ice cream or something? It might not seem like anything special, but it's something that I've never gotten to do with a mom before. I've been my dad's daughter before, but I've never been my mom's daughter before." She looked at her dad and said, "No offense dad, but it's a girl thing. Are you cool with that?"
Alex was near tears as he nodded, "Baby, I am very cool with that. You have no idea how happy I am for you right now."
She smiled at him and wrinkled her nose in a playful way that Beno was getting accustomed to rather quickly, "Actually, it feels like I do have an idea of it, but thanks for saying so." She motioned for Beno to lean closer and whispered to her, "He's a pretty good dad. I think he's a keeper."
== Tag Beno ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Beno Velaul - 05-23-2026
There was a giant secret that Beno hidden since her second assignment in Stzr Fleet, one that she always wanted to reveal but never could. Today was that day. "Sweetheart I am going to tell you a secret I haven't told anyone, not even my closest friend that is more like a sister to me at times." Beno lookedher in the eye while still on one knee.
"I used to use my Uniform like an armor that would let people get close, while maintaining a distance. Then a long came your father, a man I knew only by reputation, he has the scientific background and leadership abilities. I heard a few things about Cindy as well, she really perked my interest." Beno had to stop and recoup.
"I knew he was equally as handsome as smart, but the armor held for most of the time until we were on the surface when it started to Crack. Even with my two security professionals telling me it was unwise to wear a skirt, I did it anyways and made him wear a suit so we would look good together. Again the armor cracked a little more, it wasn't until we first spoke that my armor was completely destroyed." Benogave her a big hug. "We will do whatever you want because this is your day, this is my first mother daughter day as well so I want to do it right." Be smiled bigger than before.
"I am comfortable with people seeing me out of uniform, I will love it even more when people see us together on a Mother Daughter adventure. In everything I ever enter into is all in with everything that comes along with it, no matter what happens between your father and me, you will always have me." In a relationship you have to give your partner the key to everything you have and are, without that level of trust what is the point? Beno also knew there have been a couple of teachers that wanted her to talk to the class, the two reasons were being a woman of Science and Command. Now that Beno had a Daughter it gives them the perfect leverage. "You should let me know when parent teacher day is, it would take a lot to keep me from it."
Beno stood up extending out her hand to hold. "For now there isn't a thing that is more important to me than ice cream with you, shall we?" Beno was excited to do this, it was the first time in a while since she did anything this child friendly.
"Alex is sure youare aware that there is a conversation we need to have, later over dinner seven pm." Beno internationally used the twelve hour clock instead of the twenty-four,a way to separate the personal life from professional, afterall they should really keep the two separate
==Tag==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Alexander Talion - 05-23-2026
== Talion Quarters ==
Reyna tilted her head and looked away while thinking out loud, something she appeared to do often, "So, you started to like my dad before last night. You started to like him while you were working together? I know he thought you were pretty and he respected you, but I didn't know how much he liked you until now." After listening to more of what Beno said, Reyna's eyes got a little wider, "So, even in a previous host, you haven't been a mom until now? That makes this uncharted territory for both of us." She gave a little sigh, "I'm sure it will toss a few challenges at us, but I kind of like the idea that we're going to go through it together. I can't wait to have you at my parent stuff with dad now. This is going to be great."
Reyna ran over and hugged her dad and gave him a big kiss on the cheek, "Love you! Don't worry, I'll have her back in time for dinner."
Alex gave a warm laugh and gave her a hug and kiss back, then stood to give Beno a hug and a kiss as well, "She's right, you know. You are amazing."
Reyna then took Beno's hand and started them toward the door, "I once read in a book that there are some rules for kids that are good for adults too. One of my favorites is that whenever possible, when you go out into the world, you should hold hands. The other is that warm cookies and cold milk are good for you. I question the medical advice of the second one, but you can't deny that they definitely make you feel good."
Alex watched them head out the door, hand in hand. He had never felt so proud or so full of love as in that moment. He was proud of both of them, because this turned out to be something both of them wanted and that meant both of them were going to try very hard to make it happen. The love part was easy. He had always love Reyna, and now, much to his surprise, he was in love with Beno. The two ladies in his life loving each other was the sort of thing he would always have hoped for, but you can't plan on such a thing. The reality was they they formed their own relationship with each other on their own, making more genuine.
The conversation Beno mentioned was something that the professional in Alex knew was coming. They were going to need to figure out both a short term and long term answer to the questions that Star Fleet would need to ask. Fortunately, Alex was not bound up in his career. He was good at what he did, but matters of rank and position were inconsequential to him. He was a scientist first and an officer second. He had even been a First Officer, and a pretty darned good one at that, but he focused on the mission, managing people and resolving issues. He wasn't very interested in pursuing a command of his own. He could do it if it was asked of him, but it was not a personal goal of his. He had accomplished his professional goals as well. In fact, he had been a bit too successful and now kept a great deal of his most important research secret. His family and personal accomplishments had already given him more wealth and satisfaction for a couple of lifetimes, so having a rewarding personal life now took a higher priority for him. He wouldn't neglect his duties or obligations, but he would be lying if he didn't admit that this relationship might change some things.
== Tag Beno ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Alexander Talion - 05-23-2026
== Lt Mala's Quarters ==
== NPC Lt Andrea Tate ==
Andrea smiled at the question from Jez, "Well, if it is that physical aspect alone, then it is called a preference. There might be reasons in your past that helped form that preference, but it might be no different than your favorite color or flavor of something. Sometimes you simply like what you like. I think it is more interesting that you become attached and perhaps might even fantasize about men you can't have. That is typically because that makes them safe. It allows you to get close, but there is always some barrier that will keep things from going too far. For you, being part Betazoid, there will always be a desire to connect with someone on a higher level, but it is sometimes possible to form those bonds with non-Betazoids, it is just not a given that it will be possible, that's all. You're a strong enough person though that I think if the other person is genuine and open to the idea, you could form such a bond. I know I have in my past and I've seen it many times in others. There's also the very typical thing that factors in for all people and that is simply that people tend to want most things that they cannot have. The hard part is sometimes the ability to be happy with what you do have."
Andrea smiled and added, "It is perhaps the hardest thing for us to find the secret balance within us. The idea that the more you strive to attain something, the more it will elude you. Yet, the more content you can become, the more you will find is actually within your grasp. I've seen entire cultures built up around such philosophies and they're not wrong. Imagine that you meet someone that you are attracted to, so you try to establish a relationship with them. Often, the more you try, the more likely it is to fail. You become too focused on being and doing something instead of simply being yourself and doing what already comes naturally. More often than not, it is that confidence and inner contentment that attracts a person that is of a like mind. If you want to be with someone, you want them to like the real you anyway. To be anything else is to begin a relationship under false pretenses, which is never a good idea."
Andrea too a sip of her tea, "I bring this up, because when a person feels a loss like this, it eventually leads to moments of examining your own life and mortality. This is perfectly normal, but I'm doing my best to give you some food for thought along the way."
== Tag Mala ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Jez Mala - 05-24-2026
Jez sat there letting Andreas' words ferment in her brain. Jez had to admit that Andrea had a somewhat valid point; maybe Jez did make bad choices when it came to being attracted to unattainable chunky men. She might have been supplementing her feeling of a less-than-ideal paternal experience, and supplementing it with her idealized version of a father figure.
Jez tried to recall her Psychology classes from the Academy; she remembered what Professor Harmond said.
There are a lot of possible psychological, emotional, social, and even biological reasons why some women are attracted to heavier older men. Attraction is highly individual, and usually it is a mix of factors rather than one single cause.
Some common reasons included but not limited to:
Perceived stability and security
Older men are often associated with emotional maturity, life experience, financial stability, calmness, or reliability. For some women, those traits feel grounding and attractive.
Comfort and warmth
A heavier body type can subconsciously signal softness, protection, warmth, or comfort. Some people simply find larger physiques physically comforting or reassuring.
“Safe masculinity”
Some women perceive heavier older men as less aggressive, less performative, or less emotionally volatile than younger, highly image-focused men. That can create a feeling of safety and ease.
Confidence and personality
Many attractive, heavier older men succeed socially because of humor, charisma, intelligence, kindness, confidence, or emotional attentiveness. Personality often becomes more important with age.
Fatherly or nurturing associations
Psychologically, some people are drawn to traits associated with caretaking, patience, wisdom, or protectiveness. Older, heavier men can sometimes unconsciously evoke those qualities.
Preference shaped by experience or upbringing
Attraction patterns are influenced by early experiences, family dynamics, media exposure, culture, and past relationships. Someone who grew up around affectionate, larger men may genuinely associate that body type with positive emotions.
Rebellion against conventional beauty standards
Not everyone is attracted to youthful, athletic ideals. Some women actively prefer men who look experienced, relaxed, rugged, or unconventional.
Biological and evolutionary influences
In evolutionary psychology, signs of resource stability, status, experience, and social competence can influence attraction. Different people weigh those signals differently.
It is also important to remember:
Attraction is not always “explained” by pathology or hidden issues.
A preference for heavier older men is not inherently unusual or unhealthy.
Many people simply have authentic physical preferences, just as others prefer tall, slim, muscular, younger, or older partners.
There is also a cultural archetype around this — the “big older guy” who is funny, confident, successful, emotionally steady, or protective. That combination can be very compelling to some people.
It made sense, maybe on a deeper emotional level, Jez was looking to build a family for her that included an involved protective father figure? For crying out loud the word father practically spelled it out FATher, That’s when Mike’s image filled her mind, like watching a holographic documentary of her and Mike’s interactions over the years, their sparing sessions, him showing her the proper technique in a Spinning Back Kick, the times he was her unwilling dance partner, her Father Confessor, her best girlfriend, the one person her trusted implicitly and she had just screamed in his face, rejecting the one man she held in the highest regards.
“Andrea, what if I have damaged my relationship with Ted… I mean, MIKE beyond repair? What if he never forgives me?” Stated Jez with her voice filled with a mixture of sadness and regret.
== Tag Andrea/Talion .==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Alexander Talion - 05-24-2026
== Lt Mala's Quarters ==
== NPC Lt Andrea Tate ==
Tate smiled and tried to calm Jez, "Calm down. His feelings were hurt that you said those things, but he knows that you're hurting right now. I told him to give you some time and that you were going to need him. This is part of your grieving process and those who genuinely care for you are going to need to ride it out with you. As for your taste in men, it could be far worse. There's nothing wrong with the type of men you like other than if they are actually not available to you. I caution you to be careful right now. Emotionally speaking, you are in a vulnerable state. Some people have been known to fall into the arms of someone over far less than a trauma like this. I would resist such a compulsion if you can, at least for a few weeks. Statistically speaking, it is not a good idea. If you're worried about Mike and how he is taking all of this, maybe you can send him an apology and ask him to have dinner with you, because you do really need him right now. Then you can both cry on each other's shoulders and help by supporting each other moving forward."
== Tag Mala ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Jez Mala - 05-25-2026
Jez almost swallowed her tongue when Andrea mentioned, “You can send him an apology and ask him to have dinner with you, because you do really need him right now.” The blood drained from her face, her heart began to race, and sweat covered her palms. Apologizing to Mike would be like apologizing to your Grandparents. Yes, you love an adore your Grandparents and would feel like something you scraped out of the bottom of an animal pen, or the bottom of a fish bowl, especially if you hurt your grandparents, your Grandparents who love you unconditionally, who knows what to say when you’ve done something so incredibly asinine as that and think your parents, or your friend, will never forgive you.
“No, …no,, I can’t do that. It would be too humiliating, I wouldn’t even know what to say. What am I supposed to say? “ Oh, Mike, I was a total psychopath. Forgive me for being insensitive, for having the manners of a Denebian slime devil?” Said Jez, her voice filled with frustration and uncertainty. “Andrea, would you go to Ten Forward and invite him back here for dinner, and the three of us can talk, you could be the buffer, in case anything should get, you know...difficult. “ Suggest Jez, her tone pledging.
== Tag Andrea/Talion.==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Kalli Thorn - 05-25-2026
== Lt Mala's Quarters ==
== NPC Lt Andrea Tate ==
Andrea rolled her eyes, "Very well, I will speak to him for you, but it would mean more to him coming from you. I'll let you speak to him over dinner though to try and make things right. You're both going to need each other. He has lost people too. His life has been impacted as much or more than yours has. He feels incredible guilt, even though he wasn't there. The desire to assign blame is one of the stages of grief. I will agree to also help you if things get too difficult, but things are supposed to get difficult. Death is never easy. It isn't supposed to be easy."
== Tag Mala ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Jez Mala - 05-26-2026
Jez wasn’t sure what she would say to Mike. The two hardest words to say in. The human language is “I’m sorry. Jez felt like she did when she was seven years old, having to apologize to Mike.
Jez thought about what she would say.
“I’m so sorry, Mike, no, no, that’s too common. I’m heartily sorry,, nah.. To the pedestrian, Mike, I’m truly sorry for questioning your honor”.
However, nothing seemed right, nothing seemed appropriate. She had hurt her Sensi, her mentor. Can wrongs truly be righted?, Thought Jez.
Jez noticed Andrea rolling her eyes. “Did you really just roll your eyes at me. You have met him, right? This is going to be hard enough. He’s as stubborn as a Klingon Targ!!” Protested Jez, she crossed her arms over her chest. “He’s going to make this as difficult for me as possible. He's going to make me squirm.” Declared Jez, her voice pleading. Jez placed a hand on Andrea’s shoulder. “Please, Andrea, he'll listen to you; if anyone can charm him into returning, it’s you.” Added Jez. “Come on, Andrea, I would do it myself, but you know how men are, they pout and sulk like little boys. You go to Ten Forward and collect him, and I’ll make us all a nice dinner, how does Skause (a concentrated, savory meat stew) sound?”
== Tag Andrea/ Talion. ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Kalli Thorn - 05-27-2026
== Lt Mala's Quarters ==
== NPC Lt Andrea Tate ==
Andrea warmed up her tea, "Jez, relax. I already sent Cindy to go get him. Give him a little credit. He knows people better than you think. He's known you forever and is not going to let one understandable outburst chase him away forever."
She placed a hand on the shoulder of Jez as she passed. It was a small and soft gesture that somehow helped to calm Jez a little, feeling that maternal sort of warmth from her that Jez had come to know from the past. "Don't feel you need to rehearse a speech, just be yourself and speak honestly from your heart. This is one of the times when it is not only acceptable, but expected that you can be vulnerable with those close to you. You're both in pain."
Taking her seat again, "I think that Skause sounds like a wonderful idea. I find it a nice comfort food and it sounds perfect for a time like this. You should make it by hand, not replicated. You can replicate the ingredients, but use the highest resolution subroutine, so you get them with as much flavor as possible, then cook it yourself. It gives you something to focus on and it always helps at a time like this to have something special that is made with love and care."
== Tag Mala ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Jez Mala - 05-29-2026
Jez loved Andrea like a sister, but had to shake her head. Yes, she had known Mike all her life; he was like a father, uncle, and older brother all rolled into one, but she knew he could be stubborn and rigid. To say that Mike saw the Universe in black and white terms was an understatement; of all the Human males she had encountered, Mike elevated stubbornness to an art form. She could just pick it now: if he does come back to her quarters, He’ll make her grovel She could hear him now,
Jez: Mike, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to lash out at you like that. Can you forgive me?
Mike: Funny, you don’t seem sorry. Jez, I’m so disappointed in you.
Jez: No, really, I was wrong; my actions inexcusable.
Mike: You were what?
Jez: I was wrong.
Jez understood Mike's technique; it was to force one to really reflect on one’s actions. To examine their conscience, to reflect on their behavior, to see where they went off track. Jez suddenly came to a realization she was just like MIke. “By the Four Sisters. I’m just like him!!!” Said Jez grudgingly.
Jez continued making the Skause, the replicator made the necessary ingredients needed, The ingredients were relatively simple, Ingredients Meat: lamb or beef chuck, cut into bite-sized chunks Base: butter Veggies: large yellow onion (diced), carrots (peeled and sliced), turnip or rutabaga (diced), and small head of green or red cabbage (chopped) Liquid: cups beef or vegetable broth (or enough to cover ingredients) Aromatics: (3) cloves garlic, crushed; (1) bay leaf; (1 tsp) fresh thyme. It only took about thirty to forty-five minutes to prepare, while the Skause was simmering. Jez had the replicator create a Kransekake: consisting of a sponge cake layered with an almond-studded meringue, rich vanilla pastry cream, and fresh berries.
Jez knew that if anyone could convince Mike to give her another chance, it would be Cindy; all Jez had to do was wait to see if Mike would arrive.
== Tag All. ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Kalli Thorn - 05-29-2026
== Lt Mala's Quarters ==
== NPC Lt Andrea Tate ==
Andrea laughed at Jez, "Yes, you are. You say that like it's the first time this is occurring to you." She then just smiled and shook her head at Jez.
While Jez was preparing the meal, Andrea walked over, "You peel the carrots? I always leave them on, as with potatoes. There is so much flavor in the skins that I never take them off if it can be avoided. Medically speaking, most of the vitamins and nutrition are found in the skins. Have you ever tried your recipe that way?"
As they talked, Andrea reached over and picked up a slice to nibble on.
== Tag Mala ==
RE: AQ/D05-32 - Crew Quarters - Jez Mala - 05-30-2026
Jez was slightly annoyed that Andrea was laughing at her: “It’s not funny; I’m nothing like him!!!” Jez snapped, her voice slightly defensive. Upon hearing her own words, even she wasn’t convinced. Jez wasn’t sure if she was more annoyed at Andrea for saying that she was just like Mike, or the fact that she agreed with Andrea.
Maybe, I’m just a younger, smaller version of Mike?
Andrea said, "You peel the carrots? I always leave them on, as with potatoes. There is so much flavor in the skins that I never take them off if it can be avoided. Medically speaking, most of the vitamins and nutrition are found in the skins. Have you ever tried your recipe that way?"
Jez smiled, as Mike was the one who taught her how to cook, “Yes, a wise man told me the same thing about leaving the skins on.
Jez looked at the Kransekake; the things made with the replicator were nice, but just a little too perfect. Food made by hands was different. Replicators had perfectly measured ingredients, the right proportions. Homemade food allowed the chef to add their own twist on the dishes: an extra dash of ginger, an extra pinch of oregano, a second splash of vanilla
“Andrea, have you ever been to that Little Thai place three blocks from the Academy, the one with the amazing Pad Thai?” Inquired Jez
Jez looked at the door to her quarters, expecting Cindy and Mike to come through the door. What’s taking them so long?” Said Jez, her voice filled with a tad of frustration.
== Tag Andrea/ Talion.==