Vulcan / masutra-pisalan-tea-house

USS Odyssey

Vulcan / masutra-pisalan-tea-house

Narrator BOT 21-May-21 02:04 AM

*Inside the rather understated building, the light was a soft white, and the ceiling mimicked the sky. Tall palm looking tree's in varying shades of purple, pink, and green lined the corners of the room.* *Throughout, tables dotted the floor, partitions separating them, and there were a few booths, done up like tents for larger parties.* *The smell of fruit waffed through the air, and the staff was quite diverse. Obviously they were going for a relaxed beach theme.*

Original message was deleted.

Lt. Cmdr. T'Pel Kestra 21-May-21 02:05 AM

Pinned a message.

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 21-May-21 02:12 AM

*Once inside, Sara took to a corner to lean a hand against the wall, her shoulders shaking and her breath soft, but trembling as she took a few greedy gulps of cool air. Just..just a few minutes. While it was very customary for her to pleasantly greet waitstaff wherever she went, today was not the day as she ignored the pleasant hellos in order to simply catch her wits about her.* (edited)

Dr Larkin BOT 21-May-21 02:15 AM

*Larkin looked to Sara and he walked over,* "Have I allowed my Pixie plant to wilt? Perhaps I should have carried you. Quickened the pace." *It was not his goal to be insulting, but he was quite serious. He wasn't about to tolerate making her this uncomfortable.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 21-May-21 02:19 AM

"I was..a dummy..I did not take..A Tri-Ox before..my arrival." *She panted in quick intervals. Terrans could not get as much oxygen from the dry Vulcan atmosphere as the native species could, their lungs several times more efficient. Some humans could tolerate it, but most? A shot of Tri-Ox was needed in order to not have fainting spells from lack of oxygen and the oppressive heat. It seemed Sara was one of the many whom needed the shot.* "I will be fine.. just a few moments, please." *At least the staff did not seem phased, she was likely not the first Terran to have a wheezing fit in their corner today.*

Dr Larkin BOT 21-May-21 02:23 AM

*Larkin pursed his lips and reached in his pocket to pull out a hypo,* "You are fortunate I prepare for as much as I do. Here." *He moved to give her an injection,* "I was not sure if you had already gotten it or not. So I brought it just in case."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 21-May-21 02:26 AM

"You just carry..hypos on you?" *She wanted to laugh, but it was too hard- so it came out as more of a dry cough. She leaned up off the wall in order to expose her throat to him, though she quickly returned one hand to the wall to keep her balance.*

Dr Larkin BOT 21-May-21 02:36 AM

*Larkin gently placed a hand on her arm to steady her and assist in holding her up, placing the hypo to her neck to give her the injection.* "I do not think you understand how seriously I am taking your comfort level. It would not do well to have my Pixie Queen perish under the Vulcan sun. Her Face subjects would not be kind." *He had done a wee bit more research into fairy lore, and Fae were often tricky and brutal. Many ancient civilizations revered and feared them. Fascinating, really.* *But Larkin took to such statements of fanciful ideation as a way to neutralize any concern in situations. Usually to keep patients calm. Seemed to be a habit now.* *The real question was, who's concern was he trying to ease? Sara's or his own?*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 21-May-21 02:53 AM

"Ah- I am..a pixie *queen* now?" *She replied, amusement gilding her tired voice as Larkin shot her full of the Tri-Ox in one swift motion. She sucked in suddenly, as if gasping for her life, but just as quickly breathed out- All at once woozy and a bit more unstable than she had been before. Becoming oxygen drunk after a Tri-Ox shot was a real thing- but she was, to her credit, handling it exceptionally well. Well. She was at least standing under her own power.* "As much as I genuinely appreciate your care- it would not do for someone to be punished for helping. I will see to it you are rewarded handsomely instead..that is if we can get taken to a table before I collapse. -No do not carry me, I am fine to walk, I promise." *She cut him off, knowing those would almost certainly be the next words out of his mouth.*

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Vectra BOT 21-May-21 02:59 AM

*A young Bolian woman glided over, having grabbed a glass of water,* "Welcome to Masutra Pi'salan. I saw you when you came in and rushed to grab you some water. Are you ok?"

Vectra BOT 21-May-21 03:10 AM

"Oh, sorry. Forgive me, where are my manners! I am Vectra and I will be your hostess and your server today. Let's get you seated, honey." *Vectra then lead them over to a nice table for two by a window. Guessing they were a couple but then again you could never be too sure, so she kept that to herself.* *She then handed them both menu's,* "If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask. You drink on that water a moment and I will give you some time to look things over." *Vectra gave a small curtsy and a smile before gliding off to check on her other tables.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 21-May-21 03:48 AM

*Sara had to hand it to her, The other woman definitely knew how to take charge of a situation. She gratefully took the glass of water as she and Larkin were led to their seats. The tea house was done up in a beach theme, art for tea house on Vulcan, but who was she to say anything about it, especially when she herself was so fond of beaches. It was too bad that she would have gotten a third degree burn on the walk over had she worn her sundress, because she really felt as though she would have matched the decor and the vibe perfectly. Taking a quick look around, she looked back to their hostess with a weary smile and gave the Bolian woman a nod of her head.* "Ah, thank you ma'am, I will try to be quick." *She looked to Larkin with the same weary grin, She looked better than she did before, her previously bright red face now toned down to a slight pink. She could breathe better, and was cooling down, already she felt much more pleasant.* "I think I might owe you my life for the Tri-Ox just then.." (edited)

Dr Larkin BOT 21-May-21 04:02 AM

*Larkin fanned her a little with his menu, tilting his head to the side as he move a long leg to stretch out of the way,* "I do not want you to push your limits while here on my account, Sara. If you require assistance, I am prepared to do what I can. Which is a significant amount."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 21-May-21 04:31 AM

*She hummed back softly in relief, leaning into the slow flutter of wind with her eyes shut. Whisps of blonde hair blew about beside her, but she couldn't care less, too wrapped up in the man-made breeze.* "Mm? My polite internal voice says for you to not worry yourself, however my inquisitive nature wonders how far you might go.~" *She teased, opening one bright, teal eye to catch glimpse of his expression, if any.*

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Dr Larkin BOT 21-May-21 06:55 AM

*A sharp brow shot up as he sized up the little blonde. He knew he was being teased, as he had grown accustomed to the certain tone, but he was unsure exactly* **how**. "Would you care to test these limits? I am confident I can meet most challenges."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 21-May-21 03:25 PM

"Ah, but where is the fun in knowing ahead of time? Maybe we will just see where things go, ja?" *She offered, still leaned forward in deep appreciation of the breeze he was making with his menu.* "You have said you have never visited- but I assume you are the type to look up the menu before you go to a new place- have you already picked something out? Or maybe have a suggestion?" *She asked mostly due to her sloppy ability to read Vulcan well.*

Dr Larkin BOT 21-May-21 04:43 PM

*Larkin almost smirked as he tilted his eyes, lazily blinking at a much happier looking Sara. Content to continue fanning her.* "It is almost like you know me, Pixie. I have studied the menu. There is a wild flower bloom tea that they grown higher in the mountains. Mixed with Jamba fruit it should be sweet but light. There is also a veggie and fruit sampler. My suggestions, though I can recite the rest if you wish."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 23-May-21 10:42 AM

"I like to think I know you well enough- though my intention is to know you so well I can almost tell what you are *thinking*. If only for my own selfish, human reasoning. If I were in a troubled situation- what would Larkin do?" *She smiled, finally sitting up properly, taking elbows off the table. But what she said was the truth. His logic would always surpass her own, so it would actually be of great benefit to herself to have a low-level line of his rational sway in the background.* "I am very partial to wildflower tea and honey both- that sounds extremely pleasant. And of course- I am always eager to sample any of the local Vulcan flora- it means that I do not have to forage in the hot sun for it. I am happy with that selection if you are?" *She offered, internally grateful that he was just as easy to please as she was.* (edited)

Dr Larkin BOT 23-May-21 02:30 PM

"If you wish to know my thoughts, all you need do is ask. I can communicate them to you at any time. I will say, step one for any out of the norm situation, troubling or otherwise, I assess every viable possibility as well as exits." *Larkin said, slowing his fanning pace to a softer breeze.*

Vectra BOT 23-May-21 02:37 PM

*Her blueness came gracefully gliding around the far counter, content the rest of her tables were taken care of, and she came to a soft stop with a smile,* "Oh, you are looking much better. Have you both decided what you would *find agreeable*?" *Vectra gave eyed Larkin teasingly, and gave Sara a little wink, very amused with her mild teasing of Vulcan word choice.*

Dr Larkin BOT 23-May-21 02:59 PM

"We will have the Wild bloom special, and your Alpha quadrant sampler." *Larkin was unphased by Vectra's humor, but only because some things at times did actually vault over his head. He did not realize the woman was trying to be funny.* "Also, some more water as well. I also wanted to compliment you of your thoughtfulness and promptness earlier. You are an asset to the Masutra."

Vectra BOT 23-May-21 03:03 PM

*Vectra's eyes widened slightly as she looked from Sara to Larkin, before ultimately modestly swooning a little, leaning into softly speak to the little blonde,* "Vulcan compliments are better than any tip. You nabbed yourself a charmer, honey. Lucky girl."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 23-May-21 05:56 PM

"Yes- thank you so much. I was in a way after being out in the heat..I think I had forgotten how to prepare for Vulcan it has been so long since I got the chance to visit. I appreciate your kindness~" *Sara responded back after Larkin had finished his compliment as well. Though at Vectra's comment, Sara grinned wider, tucking a bit of blonde hair behind her rounded ear.* "Thank you, Miss. I feel I am very lucky to be his friend indeed. And believe it or not? He's usually far more charming than this- you should see his nursing staff falling over themselves!~"

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Vectra BOT 23-May-21 06:31 PM

*Her brows raised as she glanced at Larkin,* "A doctor to boot. My my..." *She gave Sara a wink and straightened,* "I'll just go put your order in and fetch that water, hmm?" *Vectra waggled her brows before gliding off, her skin matching long blue maxi dress, swishing softly as she went.*

Dr Larkin BOT 23-May-21 06:36 PM

*Larkin gave a polite nod as she headed off and quirked a brow at Sara,* "I have not noticed the medbay staff falling. Have I missed something?"

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 23-May-21 07:36 PM

"Really?" *She hummed, a Cheshire grin curling at the edges of her pink lips, an almost mischievous expression glinting beneath her lashes.* "You really don't notice? How you get oggled? Even the waitress did it. Surely you are not dense.. you are a witty man by all accounts." (edited)

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Dr Larkin BOT 23-May-21 08:10 PM

*Larkin thought about it a moment, his brow twitched,* "Ah. To be honest, I have learned how to ignore glances of attraction. Most never act on it, so I see no point in dwelling on it."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 23-May-21 08:54 PM

"That is fair, a lot of times its meant as a compliment, not so much as an attempt at courting. But you did have me amused for a moment~ pretty man who does not know he is pretty- though I suppose aesthetics in the grand scheme of things don't matter so much as personality. Do vain Vulcans.. exist, I wonder?"

Dr Larkin BOT 23-May-21 09:10 PM

"When I was at the academy, I noticed I garnered quite a bit of strange attention from a lot of different people. I was not used to such glances. So when I asked, a shortly after very embarrassed classmate of mine, it was explained to me that I was physically appealing. I proceeded to explain to her that Vulcan's do not consider such things as important and there for find it irrelevant." *Larkin adjusted in his seat slightly,* "I personally do not understand the appeal. My features are, on a geometrical scale, closely symmetrical. However I do not understand how that is attractive." "Then I think about attractiveness on it's own. For example, I find your particular countenance quite appealing, yet I do not know how to connect that exact feeling to anything about my view of myself. Perhaps I am just *not my type*?"

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 23-May-21 09:40 PM

"Well.. you are a man? As far as I know, a heterosexual one at that. I think maybe its rather normal to not think of yourself as very attractive if you are interested in women, no? Or maybe you like more feminine men? I am still learning, Lofoten did not have a very diverse culture in these terms, so sometimes I get confused." (edited)

Dr Larkin BOT 23-May-21 11:24 PM

*Larkin blinked. Then blinked again and looked at Sara, the corner of his lips bending into the smallest of smirks. He knew what he had said, and it apparently flew right over her pretty little head. He couldn't help but sit there, looking at her, eyes narrowed amusingly yet he said nothing.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 23-May-21 11:27 PM

*Sara looked right back at him, expecting him to say something in response..and yet..and yet he said nothing. His expression, as small as it was, looked bemused, almost tickled if one were to assign an emotion to his normally calm, placid face. She said nothing else for a few more moments, calmly blinking as she watched him..was this a staring contest?* "..Did..did I say something wrong?" (edited)

Dr Larkin BOT 23-May-21 11:30 PM

*Larkin gave a small shake of his head* "Not at all. However, I do think I understand the affect my own oblivious nature may cause others."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 23-May-21 11:36 PM

*Had she been oblivious to something? Her expression was soon one of confusion- then deep concentration. Almost cartoonishly deep concentration. Or maybe perhaps she was just so eager for food that she hadn't been quite focused enough to hear whatever seemingly had escaped her attention.* "I apologize-" *She said after a moment, blonde brows knit a bit together in concern.* "I did not mean to cause you any annoyance. I hope you don-Oh tea!" *She gasped, her attention almost whiplash-quick situated directly on their waitress bringing out a platter of snacks and a teapot.*

Vectra BOT 24-May-21 12:02 AM

*A tray held high in one hand and a tray stand in the other, Vectra gracefully stopped at their table. With on hand she cracked open the stand and placed it firmly on the floor then gingerly placed the tray down atop it.* "I'd say I hope you are thirsty, however this is Vulcan and with such pleasing company...*of course you are*." *Vectra smiled wide, not specifying to which of them she was teasing. Likely both, but who knew.* *She set out an other empty water glass, then a carafe of cool ice water, filling the glass before setting it down. Next was two simple yet handsome tea cups, followed by a matching tea pot. She poured the tea for each.* "The sampler should be out in a few moments." *And she was off with a wink*

Dr Larkin BOT 24-May-21 12:10 AM

*Larkin, the slightest hint of of a smirk still remained. He wasn't about to inform her, as he wanted to see how long for it to dawn on her.* "You have nothing to apologize for. I find you quite the opposite of annoying."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 24-May-21 10:46 AM

*Sara was boggled at the lovely service, blonde eyebrows set high on her forehead in delight and surprise as Vectra walked off. She quickly turned to Larkin, all smiles, as she looked down at their delicate beverage display.* "I just do not think you have had opportunity to be around me long enough to know well- but I will forgive you this instance and hope you keep to your current opinion, especially when I start on my horrid pun jokes- I cannot be stopped." *Taking up her lovely blue and white teacup, she admired it gently in her hands before bringing it up to her nose to softly inhale. Her lashes fluttered and she gave a quiet sigh of happiness, obviously very pleased with his choice.* "But if it matters, I do not find you annoying either.. You have good taste in tea, however."

Dr. Larkin 24-May-21 01:27 PM

"I am confident that I am incapable of finding you annoying, Pixie." *Larkin replied as he picked up his own tea cup, holding it under his nose as a brow twitched slightly before he took a sip.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 24-May-21 09:28 PM

*Sara mirrored his actions and she too took a delicate sip. It was, just as he said, sweet, but very light. Perfect for afternoon tea- and perfect for her aching stomach. The heat always took a terrible toll on her despite her several visits to Vulcan by now, but it never seemed to get easier.* "Ooh..this is nice. I do not think it needs a sweetener." *Alas was her bad habit of drinking very sweet tea- on that note, she'd have to ask him if he'd ever been to the American south. Their sweet tea? Phenomenal.* "Thank you- I will have to keep my good track record clean for sure, now."

Dr Larkin BOT 24-May-21 09:37 PM

*Larkin's brows rose, flirting with the fringe of his bangs for a moment,* "Indeed. Almost as sweet as your strawberry's." *He took another sip before lowering the cup back to the table,* "Speaking of, I have found one of the local gardens has a wide variety of acquirable fruits and vegetables. I had planned on taking you there at some point during out visit. I am sure they are open in the evening once the sun has set."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 24-May-21 11:01 PM

*At that, she grinned brightly, showing off the whites of her teeth- obviously pleased that he liked the fruits so much. She would have to remember to make him a strawberry cake for his birthday. Vulcans of course didn't celebrate birthdays- but she was sure he would indulge her. At his mention of the pick-yourself gardens nearby, she noticeably perked up, her eyes looking at him from across the rim of the teacup as she softly sipped the tea once more before setting it down- though still in her hands.* "I would love that! Though- I hope you remember what I said about only doing things I like, ja? I love and appreciate garden shopping, but I would also love to do something you enjoy as well..if you are agreeable?"

Dr. Larkin 25-May-21 12:19 AM

*Larkin nonchalantly smoothed the front of his already smoothed top, then brushed invisible dust from his leg as he crossed them gracefully,* "I have stated, that I enjoy watching you enjoy things. You may find that without you to entertain, I am quite dull. A hike here, the hot springs on the out skirts of the city, reading. Actually...a significant amount of reading. I am content making you happy, Sara. Truly." *His dark blue eyes fell on her at the last word, and his expression was nothing more than absolute sincerity, before lifting his cup for another sip. He always felt he was a simple man. Then again there were many who had told him he was odd for a Vulcan. He supposed that was accurate, but then again many acted as if Vulcan's were incapable of having personalities of their own while also maintaining their firm logical control. He did not find it a difficult concept, and he was quite pleased that Sara also did not. It was one of the reasons he genuinely enjoyed her company. He did not have to explain much, and what he did was not the same old droll behavioral explanations. It was an actual sharing of information.*

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Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 25-May-21 09:46 AM

*Sara's eyes widened a bit, her expression one of both surprise and endearment. That was..probably the nicest thing anyone had ever said to her before. He was happy to make her happy? But of course, she was always happy around him, he was a darling friend to her, how could she not?* "Is it so odd then..that I might feel the same for you? I am tickled to be indulged just as much as the next girl, but I enjoy knowing that you're content as well." *She finished with a hopeful smile, her blonde brows knitting a bit to show her concern- before a realization dawned on her, and she all but swiping a hand over her mouth to stop the wildly spreading grin.* "..It seems like we might be in a bit of an endless loop here. A snake eating its own tail forever in our attempts to keep one another happy- despite both of us being only too happy to do so. What an odd infinity loop."

Dr. Larkin 25-May-21 02:25 PM

"There are worse fates. Actually, I think this would be counted as preferred, would it not?" *Larkin's brow twitched, as he lifted his cup to his lips again. "Also, how else am I supposed to have a steady supply of \*kaasa* for juice should we get 'lost' again if I do not some how con you into bring some aboard?" *His eyes narrowed slyly. His way of smiling without actually cracking his face.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 26-May-21 11:44 AM

"I would think so. Stuck in a battle of outdoing one another in temptation of greater favor rather than deeper foe is something I thought was only written in the books we read~" *She grinned, the smile of her mouth reaching the edges of her eyes, causing her own eyes to squint.* "Ahh- is that it? My friendship with you is down to attaining Kaasa juice? Am I nothing more to you than breakfast, Larkin?" (edited)

Dr. Larkin 26-May-21 05:13 PM

*Larkin quirked a brow, that teasing little glint in his eye,* "Breakfast, lunch, dinner...desert. Mid morning snack. Midnight snack." *He set his tea cup down,* "I must actually be hungry. Though I am sure you know that my affection for you goes beyond just food." (edited)

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Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 26-May-21 09:39 PM

*Her face took on an almost ruby hue immediately, her mind going exactly where one might think it would. What a tease he was, an absolute flirt! Terrible, terrible man.* "W-I well, Perhaps w-we should have ordered something a touch ah, a touch more substantial than fruit and dipping yogurt? Would you like to order some tea sandwiches? Maybe?" *She offered dutifully, not quite recovered enough to think so clearly with stammering.*

Dr Larkin BOT 26-May-21 10:02 PM

"The sampler will be enough for now." *He almost cooed. He had lost count of how many times he has caused her to blush, and yet he wasn't tiring of the reaction. The back and forth was also quite enjoyable.* "We can sneak a snack later if we require."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 26-May-21 10:34 PM

"A sneaky-snack~" *She replied in earnest, tickled about the phrasing, but at least happy enough to be off subject of the prior one.* "Speaking of- it has been a while? I wonder if they're busy? No ill-meaning on my part..but I am hungry enough I might could bite into a Larkin."

Dr Larkin BOT 27-May-21 12:01 AM

"Mmm...careful, pixie. I bite back." *She kept setting it up, and he could not help himself but lean into it, and he sat calm as stone, save for that humorous twinkle as he eyed her with a raised brow.*

Vectra BOT 27-May-21 12:07 AM

*It was almost like she had heard tummies rumbling, as a moment later, Vectra came gliding around the corner with a large clear plexiglass dish, covered in various fruits and veggies from Vulcan and a few from surrounding planets. A round dish in the center. Half yogurt, half what smelled like ranch.* "Sorry about the wait. New busser, ran right into the sous chef cutting the fruit. Poor dear about died in embarrassment." *She slid the tea pot back enough to set the tray down, depositing two long forks for fruit poking in front of them.* "Anything else before I slip away to help with the mess?"

Dr Larkin BOT 27-May-21 12:39 AM

*Larkin shook his head and looked to Sara,* "Unless you think we will need more?"

Dr. Amatea Janaii 27-May-21 03:48 AM

(Sara) *Her cheeks almost ached from the throb of heat that pulsed beneath her skin. It felt like a residual burn from being out in the sun too long, coating her face and ears, even down to her throat and shoulders as she looked mom at Larkin with wide, surprised eyes. Ah, yes, the hostess was speaking, but she'd only heard the tail end, too focused on the idea of Larkin following through on his threat to have heard her explanation.* "Huh? Oh. Yes. I think we will be good with this, thank you so much for everything, you have been so lovely to us." *Sara complimented with a smile, trying her level best to not have a heart attack here in the middle of the tea house as she spoke.* (edited)

Vectra BOT 27-May-21 05:57 AM

*Vectra gave a small curtsy and a smile,* "Then I shall leave you to it, then. I'll be back around to check on you in a bit." *With that she was off again.*

Dr Larkin BOT 27-May-21 06:13 AM

*Larkin was already examining everything on the platter, and was able to identify the scent of all of it. Yet there was one thing he couldn't place. He even leaned down to sniff the platter as politely as possible, but that was only enough to tell that this scent was not actually coming from the fruit.* *It took him a minute, as it was a scent that he had not noticed in quite some time, but his brow slowly crawled upward as realization set it. It was coming from Sara.* *He knew his teasing was making her blush, however, for some reason the possibility of her finding it arousing never crossed his mind.* *He cleared his throat and gestured toward the fruit, an effort to conceal his own suddenly greener cheeks,* "Pixie overlords, first." *Perhaps he needed to pull back on his teasing, as not to call upon scandal. Not that he cared, but Sara may. He would not let her suffer such embarrassment. Though he had to admit, her arousal was not off putting even though it had not been his goal.* *He shook it from his mind. Suddenly feeling it inappropriate to be dwelling on this discovery.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 27-May-21 11:43 PM

*Breathe in? Breathe out. Calm. She was as calm and cool as a cucumber. Totally. She closed her eyes for only a brief moment before opening them once more to look at Larkin, seemingly a bit more centered and her heart rate lowered by several tics. It was no underwater ice trick that she used to use, but the Andorian Breath of Center? Just about worked every time.* "My my, such a gentleman! Perhaps since you have been so doting..I will take first bite? But I will give you the juiciest piece, ja?" *She offered, taking up the long fork and intentionally picking out the fattest strawberry, laying it on his plate with a soft 'click' of metal meeting porcelain as she popped a piece of kava fruit into her mouth with a full grin.*

Dr. Larkin 28-May-21 12:04 AM

*Larkin looked from Sara to the strawberry. He had a response tickling at the back of his mind, but he couldn't quite get it out. "The juiciest piece is sitting in front of me. I have caught your scent."* *Instead it went straight to the tips of his ears and the rounds of his cheeks, and he cleared his throat once more as he looked down to the succulent little strawberry. This time the actual fruit, not his companion,* "Thank you, my most gracious Pixie master." (edited)

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 28-May-21 01:13 PM

*To his benefit, Sara didn't notice his subtle green tint, or if she did, akinned it to the heat. Picking up her menu, it was her turn to begin fanning him as she delicately picked off the fruit and veggie tray.* "You keep saying that in public, someone is bound to think we are a kink-couple. Maybe..behind closed doors? Oh no, that made it sounds worse." *She sighed, keeping up the light fanning as she shook her head in disbelief.* "Just pixie will do~ So! tell me about your father? Anything I should know before we meet?"

Dr. Larkin 28-May-21 01:55 PM

"I do not care what others think, but for you, Pixie it is." *Larkin sliced the strawberry in half and stuck it with his fork.* "My father? Well, he is logical, as if that defining feature needs to be stated here. He is even keeled, silently compassionate. He is not much for constant debate. Most of our discussions are medical in nature." *Larkin popped the bit of fruit in his mouth as he thought about it more. After swallowing he continued to sit there, staring off at a leaf on one of the many small tree's littered about the place.* "To be honest, out side of that I do not know him as well as I thought I did. He is a good man, I know that much, but I suppose we are not terribly close." *He had been driven in his own way, and his father had been supportive, but ultimately kept out of the way. Was Larkin so driven that he had pushed the man away, or was this the result of Vulcan customs? He couldn't entirely be sure.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 28-May-21 11:46 PM

"I think it is normal..in a way. To admire your parents- but to not know much about them. Outside the norm at any rate. Whenever I tried to be too mouthy- or get too close, my father would always say "I am your parent- not your friend." Meaning to say- he loved me of course, but it was his job to raise me into someone respectable. Someone he and my mother could rely on and hold in high regard." *Guess she ruined that. The sudden thought ran across her mind faster than she could tamp it down, hurt and anger all keelhauling her at once and tanking her mood- but a quick blink and a mental shake of her head threw the thoughts out. She'd made her choice, she'd made **the right** choice. If their love and respect was relied upon by the fact of having her under their thumb? It wasn't love. No matter how much she wanted it to be.* "You have told me he works at the VSA, is he a doctor as well? I mean a medical doctor like you, not a PhD doctor."

Dr Larkin BOT 29-May-21 02:03 AM

*Larkin saw the tone in her eyes change for a moment, but really only just. Had her visit home not be a happy one? He wasn't going to pry, at least not here.* "His field is more medical research. Exclusively. Most of the harder to cure things make there way to the VSA. He works at finding cures and properly testing them in secur environments. Fairly quiet work."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 29-May-21 11:52 PM

"But very noble work, yes? Medical in general I feel is very..odd. You must simultaneously provide excellent care to ensure that people live, that they are well looked after, but also maintain a professional distance so as to not be heartbroken when things do not always..pan out." *She murmured, looking to Larkin with a wry smile, almost as if her feelings had been hurt.* "I am glad..in retrospect to have chosen science over becoming a nurse like I had originally planned to do. I do not think I would have done as well. I care..perhaps too much. And that is not a benefit to patients or other staff..if anything its a hindrance. I wonder if being Vulcan makes such a career easier. Do you have thoughts on it?" (edited)

Dr Larkin BOT 30-May-21 12:06 AM

"At the risk of sounding heartless, which as much as my people like to paint themselves as such while is is not exactly correct, detachment is something we do well. It is actually balancing a warmth that we have difficulty with. Though I have found people generally understand our limitations. Some even prefer it. However, I have tried to adapt a more personable demeanor for my patients sake." *Vulcan's also noticed the micro subtleties in the change of expression. Most of the time they ignored it. Larkin was trying to as it was obviously not the time and place. Instead of asking what was wrong, he skewered a kiwi looking fruit and placed it on her plate.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 30-May-21 12:36 AM

"Mm. I think I prefer your method, actually. Though thankfully, I have only been on the patient end of your care once." *She replied softly, taking up the kiwi with her own fork, but not before giving a soft 'thank you' and dipping it into the yoghurt that'd been provided.* "It is so wild..how that went down? We had actually only met once before then- the night in the arboretum? And we got on so well, I was sure I had known you for years it felt like. ..I am so glad..I did not forget you. I forgot a few things, the days prior to the anomaly all feels like laundry wash- I do not remember very much post arriving, actually. Just you and Commander Kestra, and a few others I had briefly met. I was told the finer details would come back, but unfortunately they never did." (edited)

Dr Larkin BOT 30-May-21 01:37 AM

"I have no doubt we would have clicked again. As long as it is not a continual issue, being reminded of things does not have to be a bad thing."

Dr. Amatea Janaii 30-May-21 01:56 AM

(Sara) "Ah, no, no, it has never been reoccurring, it's just the days prior to the anamoly. It was either.. you or Dr. Rownan that told me it was average to have some memory loss after a traumatic injury.. but admittedly, I pieced a lot of it together through context clues. I cannot even remember if you were injured.. " (edited)

Dr Larkin BOT 30-May-21 02:58 AM

"I was fortunately not. Sickbay is one of the most fortified and protected area's on the ship. I also know how to hold on and balance during turbulence. It also was likely us both as I remember telling you once."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 30-May-21 10:45 PM

"Ah thank the powers that be for that." *She replied with a small, relieved breath, her expression relaying the same thought. Of course she worried for him, he was her very first friend aboard! Not that she should even have to- he was a grown man- nearly 70 or so he'd told her. Far more experienced and knowledgeable on how to **not** get a TBI. She blinked at the thought, a bit horrified to realize Larkin had likely seen her skull. She grimaced suddenly and went back to her fruit, taking a few small, dainty bites before stopping, wiping her lips with the napkin provided, and taking a deep drink of her now much cooler tea.* "This is a really lovely experience, Larkin..I really appreciate you taking me out..inviting me to begin with, even. I do not think I have been this relaxed in a while- well, maybe other than when I am elbows deep in dirt at least~" *She chuckled- but it was rife with an edged air. Was this really the most relaxed she'd been? She felt like she might implode at any minute from all the buildup.*

1

Dr Larkin BOT 30-May-21 11:29 PM

"I am glad you have found peace here, that you came. Usually it is a fairly quiet trip, so thank you for sharing it with me. I will have to mirror your sentiment." *He grabbed another bit of fruit and popped it in his mouth.* "As for your injuries, they were not terribly extensive, though you had me mildly worried there for a moment."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 30-May-21 11:31 PM

"I had you worried? How do you mean?" *She hadn't been told anything had gone wrong in her surgery..so why had he been worried? She hadn't just up and coded on the Odin damned table, had she?*

Dr Larkin BOT 30-May-21 11:52 PM

"It was a small... distraction. During a time we were getting many casualties...some already deceased. We may handle it well, but such a large loss of life is tangible. It was when you were brought in. My heart sank until the stated you were unconscious." \*Larkin poked another piece of fruit, dipping it into the yogurt \*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 31-May-21 12:01 AM

*God that broke her heart..he'd really been worried about her. It wasn't very prim and proper of a Vulcan to admit they **felt** some sort of way, so it must have been..quite an experience.* "I..am so sorry, Larkin. Obviously I did not mean to- I could not have helped it I-..I never want to make you worried." *She whispered, guilt eating away at her as she spoke. It wasn't as if she really could have helped it, but all the same, she hated she'd worried Larkin, to have him think she'd died..* "Perhaps..next time we go through an anomaly I will hold on tighter?" Not go flying into a bulkhead?" *She smiled, trying to lighten the mood with a small joke. But even so, even **so**, her heart swelled and beat ever harder the more she thought about his admission. It made her wonder how big of an impact she really might have had on the lonely doctor.* (edited)

Dr Larkin BOT 31-May-21 12:51 AM

"It is nothing to apologize for. It did not take long to make sure you were well again. One of the perks of being a Doctor. I can make sure of that." *Larkin said, tilting his head as if to assure her.* "Some memories return, some do not. But even without head trauma, it is not unusual to forget things. They still may return in time." *Larkin made her worry. He could see it. She was a soft squishy little bundle of feelings, wasn't she. He couldn't deny it was endearing.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 31-May-21 02:19 PM

*As he spoke, she forked the last strawberry, placing it onto his plate before she took the last of the cucumber slices. It hadn't been a huge platter, but between the shuttle snack and this, it had been enough to fill her.* Once her cucumber slices were promptly gone, she took another deep sip of her tea, the pot already over half gone.\* "Well, as wonderful as that proposition sounds, you must be careful, someone might find excuses to visit medbay by self-injury. So perhaps do not say that too loud, you might have a sudden influx of minor wounds to get treated by our very own Dr. Larkin..but I promise- they will not be by me. I will coax you out with data rods- maybe some manual labor in the arboretum~"

Dr Larkin BOT 31-May-21 04:20 PM

*Larkin gave a scoff,* "You say that as if there have not been people who have done so. Though it is not many, and they always find that I am unamused with such drastic actions." *Larkin skewered the Strawberry and plopped it into his mouth then dabbing his lips with his napkin,* "And to be honest, it would not take more than a smile from you to coax me from Sickbay. However, should you require manual labor, I shall oblige. All you need to is ask."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 31-May-21 04:48 PM

"I see, and what sort of manual labor are you capable of? Vulcans may have three times the strength of a human, but it is only useful if you..know how to use it." *She murmured quietly, her eyes suddenly looking off to the side, as if their waitress may come back any moment to hear such a scandalous tease. It was all in good fun of course, no harm and no foul, but it was genuinely amusing to see Larkin have to think on his feet.*

Dr Larkin BOT 31-May-21 08:27 PM

*A brow twitched,* "I am capable of doing many different things that require physical exertion. I have no doubt I can keep up with your demands. It is logical to be prepared for many different physical tasks. No matter how repetitive an action." *He could have meant shoveling a trench, or plowing into her till she could no longer walk, there was no telling. Though for a moment the second seemed like a bit of a drastic jump, and he had to ask himself if her arousal was filtering into his senses.*

2

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 31-May-21 10:13 PM

*Her mouth curled into a grin over the rim of her teacup, trying to hide her growing delight that he was going along with her game. Her shoulders lightly shook from her silent laughter, though the thrill was ill-hidden as her heart raced several beats quicker than before.* "Well, forgive me, but I would much rather see it up close, in person, before ensuring the care of my arboretum to you..I hope you understand my caution. I must make sure of your..skill." *This was beginning to tread into dangerous territory- soon the lines would blur between joke and seriousness and she didn't want Larkin to....well moreover, it would be her own feelings hurt. Maybe they should wrap things up before they sit here and tease any further.* "At any rate- the sun is down? Are you still up for a walk together?"

Dr Larkin BOT 31-May-21 11:17 PM

*Larkin gave Sara a gentle nod, curious as to just where that line of conversation was going to lead. But she had changed the subject, so he left it alone for now.* "Of course. The gardens are not too far from here, or did you wish to save that for another day? Perhaps tomorrow morning? I am sure my father would enjoy the stroll as well and can meet us there, if that is agreeable."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 31-May-21 11:31 PM

"That might be best actually. As lovely as it would have been to have an after-dinner walk through the gardens..I am admittedly exhausted. I would have powered through anyway though- Terran stubbornness will be my downfall I think~" *She chuckled, piling her plate with her napkin and used utensils- not wanting to leave it a mess for their lovely waitress.* "Shall we go then?"

Dr Larkin BOT 01-Jun-21 01:39 AM

*Larkin nodded and stood,* "After you, Pixie." *Vulcan did not use currency, much like Earth, so there was no tab, but Larkin caught their waitress before they headed out the door and he gave her a deep bow.* "Thank you for your service. It was an honor."

Vectra BOT 01-Jun-21 01:40 AM

*Vectra smiled wide and her dark eyes lit up,* "Oh, you are welcome! It was a pleasure to meet you both. Did you want a water to go, sweetness?" *She addressed Sara.*

Dr. Amatea Janaii 01-Jun-21 01:48 AM

(Sara) *Sara gave a quick half-laugh and nodded, it was probably a very wise idea considering she'd almost dehydrated and overheated in just the brisk twenty-minute walk down to the teahouse.* "Thank you for being so thoughtful, I would love that! ~"

Vectra BOT 01-Jun-21 02:31 AM

"The stay right here and I'll be right back." *With that she almost pirouetted and hopped off, her feet never really making a sound as she had the grace of a Prema ballerina. Shortly returning with a 30 ounce tumbler souvenir filled with cool water.* "A gift. This place doesn't advertise aside from these. I love Vulcan's but the Ferngi have them beat in the business end of things. Thankfully logic can be applied in marketing under the right circumstances." *Vectra smiled again, handing Sara the water,* "You both have a good evening!"

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 01-Jun-21 01:44 PM

*Sara cooed in surprise at receiving the gift, delighted to have something to take back to the hotel other than a full belly. She absolutely beamed at Vectra and waved her off, thanking her once again for her wonderful service.* "Thank you so much, I promise we will come again! You were so lovely!" *She replied softly, though her words were brimming with delight. Who knew- all that over a cup. Though soon enough after their goodbyes, they were back out in the oven of Vulcan and briskly made way towards the hotel.*

Dr. Larkin 01-Jun-21 02:32 PM

*Larkin gave Vectra another smaller bow befor tailing Sara out.*

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