Vulcan / bahker-hotel

USS Odyssey

Vulcan / bahker-hotel

Dr Larkin BOT 18-May-21 01:35 AM

*Not too awful long after departing the station, the train made it's way to the station closest to the hotel and after a short walk, one of which Larkin was sure not to out place Sara, they came to the entrance.* *Larkin opened the door and gave a small bow like a door man, to allow her to enter first,* "Pixie's first."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 18-May-21 01:59 AM

*Her smile said it all, though she did bow her head in mild embarrassment, the pink of her cheeks and bright blonde of her hair standing out against the neutral tones of the hotel as she sauntered through the door, giving him a quick curtsy in return as he followed through. As he'd been the one who'd made the reservation, she allowed him to go up to the counter first, hoping against all hope that the clerks at the desk said nothing about their silly display. They likely looked like a couple of silly teenagers were Larkin not the more refined looking among them both.* "I never did ask, are we sharing a room or do we have our room?"

Dr Larkin BOT 18-May-21 02:14 AM

*Larkin took point and walked toward the check in counter and turned to size her up, arching a brow playfully,* "I think a more interesting question would be...how presumptuous does the Pixie think I am?" *He had reserved a two bedroom suite, of course, but he wanted to see if he could get her to blush again.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 18-May-21 02:23 AM

"Presumptuous? Of course not! I do not think I would mind either way- you are the utmost gentleman I have ever met, you would never think of doing anything untoward..so why would I be bothered to share a sleeping space near you? Unless..there is something you wish to tell me?" *She murmured lowly, once they had walked away from the clerks and towards the elevator.*

Dr Larkin BOT 18-May-21 02:27 AM

*Larkin waited until they were in the lift, then he gave a deep bow and a soft slight smirk,* "I was merely attempting to tease you, Sara. I got a two bedroom suite so you could have your own space, but would not need to look far should you need me. I thought it would be more comfortable for you?"

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 18-May-21 02:35 AM

"Oh." *Well, at least that turned her pink. So win after all? She quickly hid her face with her right hand, guarding her warm cheeks from Larkin's view, though despite the embarrassment, she at least had a smile on her face.* "Went a bit over my head, didn't it?" *She chuckled, though she cringed internally. Godddddddddd.* "Thank you for thinking ahead, you are genuinely so thoughtful~ I suppose I am just so used to sleeping with a roommate I did not think twice about the arrangement." *She mused, her hand falling from her face to reveal her smile in full view, her eyes craned up to look at him- her expression about as soft as one could get.* "Are you having fun with your new game?"

Dr Larkin BOT 18-May-21 02:51 AM

"Game?" *Larkin asked, genuinely confused as he stepped off onto their floor. Stopping to wait for her.*

*The he remembered. Their conversation in the Arboretum,* "Ah, yes. *That* game. Truth be told, it seems to be a natural progression when I am around you that I had nearly forgotten about it. Perhaps it is too enjoyable."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 18-May-21 10:48 PM

"You are a natural tease? Not something I thought I might find out about you on this trip- but it very much makes sense~ Every opportunity you get! I am flustered pink and near speechless, not thinking- not realizing you are *teasing!* Terrible. I will have to play this game harder." *She huffed, walking right beside him now, finally able to find a pace that was not her outright running, but faster than her normal pace was in order to keep up with Larkins' much longer stride.*

Dr Larkin BOT 18-May-21 11:34 PM

"I would say it would have to be natural. My people do not typically tease so much. It is true that I have tried to foster and adapt a better sense of humor, however, it seems to flow around certain people. You and Greenbean, mostly." *Larkin stopped at the door to their suite, and unlocked the door, allowing Sara to enter first.*

Narrator BOT 18-May-21 11:37 PM

*The suite was large, yet modest. Not as plain as Vulcan homes tended to be, but what was there was geared toward being educational as well as aesthetically pleasing.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 18-May-21 11:43 PM

"I am so glad you have friends to engage with like that! I have done my best to make friends aboard, but a lot of officers are very..stern, serious types, ja? Cerred I think is a good friend- we tease each other. And while I have not gotten so close to Commander Kestra- I like to think we are friends as well~" *She mused in a delighted tone, stepping inside the hotel room quietly, but not before giving Larkin a happy smile over the side of her shoulder before looking forward once again. Once inside, she immediately 'ooh'ed at the extensive decor. They'd really gone out of their way to decorate this room, It was so lovely!* "Vá~ svo stór~" *She cooed, slipping her side-satchel off of her shoulder and setting it down in a nearby chair. It was warmer in here than it had been in the hallways, but the window faced the sun- seemingly to allow the sun to shine inwards on the meditation statues it offered on the north side of the room.* "I hope myself and..'greenbean' are not your only friends?"

Dr Larkin BOT 19-May-21 12:09 AM

"Larkin followed her in slowly, also looking around before walking to the window,\* "Doctor Ch'ranirh. I am able to make him blush, though that takes a bit of obvious flirting. Though I think I can count most of the medical staff. Commander Kestra, though she is often busy."

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Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 19-May-21 11:21 AM

"Flirting? With Doctor Ch'ranirh? I did not realize you swung that way, Larkin." *She smiled, heading over to the window as well to see the view. It was several floors up, giving them an excellent view of the cityscape below, as well as the hotel community patio that held roughly an acre of a variety of Vulcan succulents and various tea bushes. Her interest was immediately piqued, but her hunger was greater than her curiosity. Perhaps when the sun went down she would go out to explore.* "Though I do not blame you, he is awfully handsome. Most of the medical staff are unnaturally pretty in that way- and while I personally have little romantic interest in other women? I am terribly smitten by the CMO. Those big dark eyes are something else." (edited)

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Dr Larkin BOT 19-May-21 03:35 PM

"I cannot say that it has been something that has appealed to me, but the flirtation was simply harmless fun. Row needed a smile and with as oppressive of an atmosphere that Shepley insisted on keeping Sickbay in at the time, it was an attempt to brighten Row's day. That was...shortly before Edward's death." *Larkin took her momentary distracted state as a chance to slip into his room (The one he claimed at any rate), and set his bag on the bed. He tilted his head and sized up the bed itself for a moment. He couldn't remember the last time he had a bed where his feet didn't hang off the edge, but this one looked bigger than the one in his quarters.* *Finally he walked to the door to address Sara,* "Did you want to do anything before we head out? If you haven't, I do suggest sunscreen."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 20-May-21 02:31 PM

"I think I am going to change into a longer dress? I was outside for three minutes at most and I think I crisped a little.." *She joked, rubbing her upper arm to indicate where she'd felt a little burnt. Honestly, as someone who'd been to Vulcan multiple times, one would think she'd be smart enough to wear long sleeves and a long skirt at best. Her current sundress would be fine on a sunny Earth day- but a sunny Vulcan day? That was just asking for a second-degree burn.* "I brought a M’ai-wem with me just in case- though in retrospect..should have just changed into it in the bathroom at ESD and saved myself the woes of sensitive skin for the night. Give me a minute and I will be ready?" *She offered with a smile, unzipping her side satchel to reveal the buttery yellow fabric with it's gold-colored embellishments. Pink was, unfortunately, not a common color to use in Vulcan clothing- so she simply had to make due. Yellow was second best anyway~* (edited)

Dr. Larkin 20-May-21 04:10 PM

"Take your time. Also, if you require I do have a dermal regenerator for any burns." *Larkin added, walking to a chair to make himself comfortable while he waited for her to change and freshen up.* "Being of the medical profession, I have come prepared to deal with your skin. As it is quite fair, and our star is quite brutal..." *AHEM. Just stop, Larkin. She knows. Gracious.* (edited)

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 20-May-21 04:46 PM

*Pulling out the long-sleeved dress, she smiled at Larkins' in-depth explanation and simply closed the door that separated them, but not before holding up her pointer finger to insinuate 'one minute'. Once alone, she unzipped her side satchel the rest of the way and pulled out the PADD that Ann had given her. Her adrenaline spiked and while Vulcans couldn't sense emotions- he could hear her heart rate, smell her sweat. Calm. She needed to be calm. Whew. In and out, big deep breath? Deep breath out. Calm.* *Once her initial rush of adrenaline and nerves had been staved off for the most part, she'd powered on the PADD and went about finding the messaging application- if they were smart, and she hoped they were, they would have Ann already programmed in as a contact. And after only a little snooping, she found out that she was, in fact, listed. Ann Obody. Heh.* *Clicking the contact, she sent a rushed message as quickly as she could type, wondering internally if she should bring this PADD with her. She'd said to keep it safe, right? This was likely her only way to contact them unless they wanted to contact her first. How mind-numbingly stressful.* [D] *New Message at 15:45* S.Bjørge: Ann? (edited)

Dr. Larkin 20-May-21 05:10 PM

*Larkin was none the wiser, though he could tell something was off with her nerves. Vulcan's were touch telepaths, but at times they could be sensitive to stronger emotions and there was something obviously swirling under that bright sweet smile of hers. Even so, it was not his place to pry. He felt Sara knew she could come to him if she needed to talk about anything. A fact that he would remind her of at a more appropriate time, if need be.*

Ann Obody BOT 20-May-21 05:31 PM

*After several minutes, a message came through.* *[D] How are you settling into Vulcan, Ensign?*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 20-May-21 05:34 PM

[D] S.Bjørge: I suppose I should have known you would know where I went. But I am settling well, thank you for asking. I never got to ask you a few questions that still lay heavy on my mind- do you have time? (edited)

Ann Obody BOT 20-May-21 05:44 PM

[D] *Within reason.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 20-May-21 05:46 PM

[D] S.Bjørge: What organization are you a part of? You said you're within fleet, but there are no organizations that are coming up in my searches.

Ann Obody BOT 20-May-21 05:50 PM

[D] *Section 31.*

Narrator BOT 20-May-21 05:51 PM

*The message erases from the PADD within mere moments.*

Dr. Amatea Janaii 20-May-21 05:52 PM

(Sara) *Sara opens up a hidden web tab on the PADD, quickly typing in **Starfleet, section 31** into the dark search.* (edited)

Narrator BOT 20-May-21 05:54 PM

*Nothing came up in the public search.*

Dr. Amatea Janaii BOT 20-May-21 05:56 PM

S.Bjørge: What is section 31?

Narrator BOT 20-May-21 05:58 PM

*This time, Sara's message deleted from the PADD within moments.*

Ann Obody BOT 20-May-21 05:59 PM

*[D] We are the last, best defense of the Federation from enemies both foreign and domestic. We operate in absolute secret because if our presence were known, we might be compromised. And we often handle the jobs Starfleet publicly cannot.*

Dr. Amatea Janaii 20-May-21 06:00 PM

S.Bjørge: dirty workers?

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Ann Obody BOT 20-May-21 06:01 PM

*[D] If necessary.*

Dr. Amatea Janaii 20-May-21 06:03 PM

S.Bjørge: was there anyone else on board the Odyssey that you had considered before me?

Ann Obody BOT 20-May-21 06:06 PM

*[D] No. You're the only one who fits the psych profile required.*

Dr. Amatea Janaii 20-May-21 06:11 PM

*That seemed like a lie, but she didn't know enough about them or their methods to question it. She might have to question Roderic on the sly to see if she could get more information.* S.Bjørge: No pressure. Last one, would anything negative happen if anyone were to discover I was helping you? (edited)

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Ann Obody BOT 20-May-21 06:46 PM

*[D] We can't account for anyone. There are many opposing interests to our way of life in the Tal Shiar or the Orion Syndicate, just to name a couple of examples. Some in the Federation would not appreciate our methods, even though they take the results of our efforts for granted. However, we also have resources enough to ensure you'll be protected.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 20-May-21 06:49 PM

*She would be sure to design her own failsafe should anything happen..but for now she'd mostly trust them. Her own hunger to disprove their theory careening her headfirst into this.* [D] S.Bjørge: Thank you for answering my questions, I am sated for the moment. I will message you once I have anything of note, have a good evening.

Narrator BOT 20-May-21 06:51 PM

*The entire conversation erased itself.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 20-May-21 06:56 PM

*Sara powered off the PADD and stuck it back inside of her bag, her nerves racing. But, that did have her questions answered and she somewhat knew what she was getting herself into. Half of her wanted nothing more than to message Ann back, to tell her she didn't want to be involved anymore and to destroy the PADD she'd been given.. and yet..and yet she desperately wanted answers herself. She wanted to prove the innocence of her friends and fellow officers. They did not deserve to have targets on their backs from Section 31..they were **good people**. And she would show them.* *Her mind placated for the moment, she quickly dressed- It in truth having taken her about five minutes to text and then get dressed, the buttons that lined the front having taken most of that time. She felt like she might need to tear the thing off when she went to bed, likely not feeling the patience to undo each button all over again. Once fully dressed in the ankle length number, she opened the door a bit later, clothed in the flatteringly-cut, light yellow dress of his home world, the fabric thick enough to not let the heat or rays of their sun penetrate. She'd braided her hair, wrapping the length of the plait into a bun at the nape of her neck- looking surprisingly modest for a human who showed half her stomach in regular intervals while in civvies.* "Sorry I took so long, are you ready?" (edited)

Dr. Larkin 20-May-21 07:12 PM

*Larkin looked away from the window where he had spotted a bird's nest on a far building and turned to look at Sara. His brows rising significantly. He had never seen her in Vulcan attire, and as she typically wore anything rather well, the garment hung nicely over her most curvaceous hips causing him to stare slightly before he blinked himself straight again,* "You look very agreeable. However, I will not lie...the sundress will be missed, all the same. Though this will likely keep your from turning into barbecue Pixie." (edited)

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 20-May-21 07:20 PM

*A smile immediately spread across her lips at his compliment, her anxiety much more at ease now that she had laid eyes on him. She was hard-pressed to not make a joke of it..but it was out of her mouth before she could even stop herself.* "Thank you..but if you liked the sundress so much, perhaps I can wear it for you again later tonight?" *Yikes that came on strong. Tone it back.* "When it is cooler?" *Nice save. .......Probably.* "But unfortunately, I do not tan, I freckle. A freckled barbeque. Best to treat me like a sensitive houseplant and we will be off?"

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Dr. Larkin 20-May-21 07:34 PM

*That got him, and he was unable to squash the minor blush of jade to the tips of his ears. "For him?" There was little dancing around that suggestion. Least not with a Vulcan. For all of their control, there was an innate possessiveness of actual and potential mates, and as he had seen Sara as a good friend, that little suggestion sparked a stirring question of the possibility for more. However, he waved it past. Friends.* *He stood and adjusted his loose sleeves,* "I believe I can pamper you appropriately." *Then he strode to the door, and opened it, letting her head out first. It was better he allow her to pick the pace she was comfortable with, and he would match.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 20-May-21 08:43 PM

*A thrill shot through her upon seeing her friend at a loss for words, the tips of his ears flushing a bright emerald. Certainly a mild little joke like that hadn't been too much for him, had it? Perhaps- but then again, it wasn't normally like her to make such a forward remark- she supposed being on shore leave made her more bold..or perhaps it was her adrenaline surge after getting off the PADD with an actual spy? Who knew- either way, there was a definite air of charm around Sara, so pleased with herself that she'd made a Vulcan blush of all things she would be riding that high the rest of the night.* "You are already leaps and bounds ahead of any guide I have ever had, I do feel, in fact, very pampered." *She hummed with a pleased tone, walking out of the door, waiting just outside of it for him to join her as he closed the door behind them. She started off down the hallways once he was beside her...though truthfully not quite knowing where she was going.* "So do you know the way to the teahouse, yes?" (edited)

Dr Larkin BOT 20-May-21 09:00 PM

*Larkin was pleased that she thought so, and slipped out behind her. Being sure not to out pace her on the way to the lift.* "I do, and thankfully it is not terribly far from here. Shore leave just *had* to land during summer. Thusly my concern for your epidermis well being. I must admit it even gets to be a bit much for me." *The arrived to the lift and he pressed the call button, standing with his hand behind his back.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 21-May-21 01:02 AM

"Fair hair, skin and eyes- a match in the desert does not make. My features are tuned for cold weather unfortunately...but even if it is difficult to adjust to the heat..nor can I see or breathe well, I *do* love it here." *She mused quietly, once again keeping her voice low while out in public. The elevator pinged and the doors opened, Sara stepping inside, but holding her hand in front of the sensor so that Larkin could walk on without the doors trying to close on him.* "I have told you once that if not for a week-long sand storm that was afflicting Shi'Kahr the week of my graduation, I would have taken up a Vulcan Xenobotany post, yes? I was too impatient to wait- so I took a ship instead. And I am so glad that I did- I am not sure we would have met otherwise, you know?" (edited)

Dr Larkin BOT 21-May-21 01:14 AM

*Larkin stepped aboard the lift, tilting his head so he could focus his dark blue eyes on Sara,* "Quite likely. And considering our recent...trip, I am sure that there are many universe's where that is true. So I am fortunate that I exist in one where you did not stay on Vulcan."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 21-May-21 01:40 AM

"My sentiments exactly~" *She smiled, the apples of her cheeks rounding as her grin reached her eyes.* "Though I am sad to have not been able to study the alternate Odyssey more in-depth, it was unbelievable to have been on the bridge and take scans of it all. I wish more than anything I could have gone over on the alternate odyssey, I cannot imagine how much data I might have gathered..ugh. Is that not terrible? To wish to go through the anomaly again just for science sake? After all we went through?"

Dr Larkin BOT 21-May-21 01:47 AM

*Larkin bobbed his head back and forth slightly,* "I can see being curious from a scientific point of view. If we were to go back, I feel the trip this time around would be much easier than the first." *The lift opened and he held a hand out to catch the sensor so Sara could step off first,* "That being said, I will take being home for now."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 21-May-21 01:52 AM

"Mm. I will take this universe as well. Though- I think I like your home better than mine- the people are less nosy." *She admitted with a slight raise of her eyebrows to him, silently explaining her exasperation with her private life being meddled with by well-meaning family and friends....not that they ever would again, now.* "When we return to ship, I would like to show you some of the scans I was able to retrieve while we went through the anomaly- despite being just..chaos energy, chaos energy everywhere! It was really miraculously beautiful, the scans are these absolutely **wild** fluctuations of color representing space depth and it just..You have to see it to understand, I do not have the vocabulary to explain." (edited)

Dr Larkin BOT 21-May-21 01:59 AM

"I should like that. However you may have to explain some of it to me. Spacial anomalies are not exactly my expertise." *It was a short trip through the lobby and outside. Vulcan at one point or another had put in shaded walkways, mostly in the larger metropolitan areas where foreigners frequented. The over all trip was only a couple of blocks away.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 21-May-21 02:08 AM

"Not exactly my specialty either- but I know enough to at least sound like I know what I am talking about~" *As they walked through the semi-crowded walkways, Sara stuck close to Larkins heels. His strides were longer, but she was fast-walking, eager to get out of the bright, oppressive heat. Despite the material keeping her from burning to a crisp, she felt like she might bloat and explode from the high neck and long sleeves steaming her to death. Her own body temperature was a degree or two higher than most Terrans as a matter of course of living near the arctic, but that did not bode well for her stay on Vulcan. By the time they'd arrived outside the tea house, her cheeks were flushed an agonizingly bright shade of red and her knees were shaky. She felt faint despite only having walked a few blocks. Spoiled houseplant indeed. There was thankfully no line as she dipped quickly into the doors of the teahouse, suddenly no longer waiting for Larkin.* (edited)

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 01-Jun-21 02:15 PM

*The cup water had helped, but only just barely. She hadn't gotten near as instantly dehydrated as she had on their walk to the tearoom while the sun was still out, but she was still a bit too warm and sweaty to be comfortable- maybe a cold shower would be more beneficial. Stepping inside the doors of the hotel, she quickly relieved herself of her feet and sat in one of the many plush chairs available near the doors for that very reason. Giving Larkin a quick smile to show she was okay, she took several moments to catch her breath as the hotels air-conditioning wafted over them.* "Maybe I should only start coming out at night..Starting to feel less like a houseplant and more like a Datura bloom."

Dr. Larkin 01-Jun-21 02:38 PM

*Larkin followed her in, his brow furrowed with mild concern,* "If you feel that is best." *Vulcan's did not need to sleep every day, so the adjustment would not be hard for him. Though he couldn't help but feel responsible for her discomfort as he was the one who invited her here. He was not about to say anything, though He knew she would only try to reassure him.* "Shall I fetch you more water?"

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 01-Jun-21 02:49 PM

"I am well! I will adjust within the next day or two- it is always hardest the first day, you know." *She of course reassured him with a dismissive wave of his concern. It was true and very well-known that Terrans were remarkably adaptive, sometimes it just took a bit, especially to such drastic temperatures.* "I will be walking around like your average citizen of Shi'Kahr by tomorrow night..but tonight I feel like it might be best to shower and go to bed..I am sure I must smell terrible." *She muttered miserably, though it was said with a quick huff of laughter.* (edited)

Dr. Larkin 01-Jun-21 03:30 PM

*Larkin's brows rose, as he had honestly not noticed until she mentioned it. Though the heat often offered it's own hot metallic scent to anything. A scent he had been more focused on because it was a scent that he often missed from home.* "I had not noticed. However, if it is rest you want, then rest you shall have. I am in no rush at all so you set the pace."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 01-Jun-21 06:00 PM

"Then..yes. If you do not mind either way?" *She asked, finally sitting more upright, and within moments, finally had enough energy to stand on her own feet. She was exhausted and sweaty..the first day on Vulcan was always the worst..she had to keep telling herself that. Once she got a good night sleep and her breathing acclimated- tomorrow would be a breeze. She nodded for Larkin to follow her as she walked down the marble hallway and stepped into the elevator.*

Dr. Larkin 01-Jun-21 07:23 PM

*Larkin stood and followed, his hands clasped behind his back. He called the lift once there, and he made no effort to rush his companion. It took one good stride and he was in.* *Once to the room he opened the door and allowed Sara to enter first.* "While you are showering, I think I will check up on some things."

Dr. Amatea Janaii 01-Jun-21 07:46 PM

(Sara) *She nodded softly, looking to him with a curious expression.* "If it is okay to ask, check up on what things? Patients, perhaps? You seem the type to bring work home with you~"

Dr Larkin BOT 01-Jun-21 08:38 PM

"Patients, messages, my usual sources for the recent medical articles. I will ensure it will not take *too* much time on shore leave."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 01-Jun-21 09:20 PM

"I have half a mind to take your PADD from you so you will actually relax." *She teased as the bell chimed, alerting them they'd arrived to their floor. Stepping out, she patiently waited for Larkin to join her in the hallway before she began to walk down towards their room- seemingly having a bit more energy now that she was in a cooler space.* "Though to be fair- if I could check in on the arboretum with any amount of accuracy, I might be doing just the same.. Are all your patients transferred to Starfleet medical once you are on shore leave?"

Dr Larkin BOT 02-Jun-21 12:06 AM

*Larkin stepped off and after the little bouncy blonde curls,* "Yes, though I mostly want to make sure there have been no troublesome developments with Commander T'Pel. The Captain also had fallen into a coma, but last I checked they had sent a specialist to help her. It will take hardly any time at all, I assure you."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 02-Jun-21 12:18 AM

"Oh..that is a very good idea. I hope she is doing well..if you are able to speak with her in your update- let her know I send my good wishes?" *She asked with a smile as they reached the hotel doors. Swiping the hotel keycard from her dress pocket, she slid it along the lock- the light turning bright green, and an audible click could be heard as the doors unlocked and whisked open with a hiss of pressurized air within the walls.* "I heard about that- the Captain? There are whispers that it was due to the anomaly, but no one is really sure. Superstition very likely on the grapevines part- but it is odd how it lined up."

Dr Larkin BOT 02-Jun-21 01:50 AM

"I will do so." *Larkin said as he followed her in.* "Indeed. I have also heard...questionable things regarding this specialist. However I am inclined to think it is just vicious rumors, since Starfleet seems to find him useful. The whole thing is curious."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 04-Jun-21 01:56 PM

"A lot of people who are not familiar with Trill tend to be curious to the point of viciousness, I would take everything with a proverbial grain of salt. I tend to be an excellent judge of character and while I have not personally spoken with him, what I have seen of him in passing? He does not seem so troublesome.. I would be willing to give him the benefit of the doubt if I were you..if my opinion means anything to you." *She smiled, letting the door close behind them with an audible click as it auto-locked.* "Now then..I have some showering to do- and you have some medical stuff to do, ja? I will see you off before bed- but I fear it might be brief."

Lt. Cmdr. T'Pel Kestra 04-Jun-21 02:11 PM

(Larkin) *Larkin gave a nod and strode off toward the common area,* "That will be agreeable." *He took up a seat and pulled up his data padd, quickly scrolling through updated charts, his messages, then onto the most recent journals he had yet to read.* (edited)

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 04-Jun-21 02:17 PM

*Sara waved him off and in quick succession grabbed a towel, her nightgown, her slippers, and her bathing supplies before she headed into the delightfully large bathroom and promptly stripped and showered off the sand and sweat that'd accumulated over the last few hours.*

Dr. Larkin 04-Jun-21 02:50 PM

*Larkin figured Sara was just going to go to bed, so he figured he would simply do the same after he finished his article. There was always some adjustment returning planet side, even for him.* *She he wandered into his own room, removed his attire and slipped on his PJ's. Cotton like pants and a button up shirt. Though the cooler air felt nice now that the air outside was almost scortching, so he just threw it onto the bed. Content to air off sprawled out on top of the covers.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 04-Jun-21 05:04 PM

*She finally walked out of the shower after a solid half-hour of simply sitting beneath the deliciously temperate water and high-velocity sprayer, her back felt raw but she'd never felt cleaner or more relaxed. Sara emerged feeling like a new person abloom, steam billowing out of the doorway before and after her as she stepped back into the foyer divider- noting with some surprise that he hadn't shut it when he'd gone to bed. She frowned with a slight sheen of disappointment that his light was off, and the dark figure that he cut out against the white of his bedding showed that he was already long-since asleep, though no sound indicated her actually was- she wasn't sure if Vulcans snored. Some had to, right? Ah well, she would see him again in the morning, and after a good night sleep, they'd both be more up to the challenge of Vulcans' heat as well as the activities planned. With a soft smile, she looked on at him sleeping for only a few moments longer before she pulled the door flush with its threshold and headed to her side of the suite with a few silent footsteps against the hardwood boards.* *Pulling back the thin, white sheet that'd been placed atop the much more heavier duty comforter, she realized with a rather disparaging look towards the window that she'd forgotten her weighted blanket. Ugh. The comforter they'd provided would certainly do- but it wasn't the same, and she certainly would not sleep as soundly without it. With a pout, she tucked herself beneath both the sheet and the comforter, wrapping the soft cotton around herself tightly to try and emulate the pressure she felt beneath her own blanket. She sighed and rolled a few times until finally finding a relatively comfortable position on her side and cuddled in close to her man-made nest, falling into a somewhat fitful sleep.*

*She couldn't stand it..to watch her father walk away from her. She'd known deep down that leaving the island would be akin to severing ties of the deepest order. Blood of the family and water of the covenant alike- even her own sister, her own friends. It was a lonely trek, one Sebastian had made years prior to her, and even then, he'd done it with no help- he'd gone alone. And here she'd been given everything, it had been all set up for her, and yet she still felt like this was the largest struggle of her life time. She chose banishment for sake of the unknown and the new. No family to turn to, no support system, no one to write home to, no one to introduce to when she finally chose a significant other, no grandparents for her children..no home. It felt so selfish looking back, leaving her siblings, her parents, her friends, even the man she'd been betrothed to- a friend she'd known since she was able to speak. It was all gone.* *Odyssey was a workplace..not a home..and it suddenly became startlingly real that if anything ever happened to her career..she'd really have nothing. Switching gears, her remorseful dream quickly became one of nightmares, the idea that S31 held such a grip on her, that she was an agent for a sinister department with little to no good news attached to their name- what would become of her if she slipped up? Her heart started wildly racing. She had no one close to her, she had no family left, how easily they could dispose of her with no questions asked- as far as anyone on Odyssey knew, she would have just been transferred and no one would be the wiser- is that why they'd recruited her? She was beneficial because of proximity?*

*-But an easy loose end to tie off if things got sour. No, no that wasn't true- Starfleet would never condone that kind of violence, that kind of manipulation..would they? She felt breathless as panic set in, adrenaline pumping wildly at the idea of being alone, of being vulnerable, of having nothing **left.**..* *She awoke with a start, her skin clammy and chilled as she sat up in bed, wiping frizzy, blonde hair away from her moist forehead and arms, trying to breathe in equal measures to stop herself from crying. Gods alive, what had she gotten herself into?* (edited)

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Dr. Larkin 04-Jun-21 05:54 PM

*Larkin, somewhere in a comfortable sleep, had caught the odd sound of whimpering and that bubble of sleep burst. For a moment he had to look around to remember where he was, as these were not his normal quarters, but that took little time, as his Vulcan hearing picked up on ruffling, the whimpers turning into a strained sob.* *Instinct kicked in, unsure if Sara was in danger or not, he leapt out of bed and grabbed his night shirt, messily pushing his arms through the arm holes as he passed through his door and over to Sara's, knocking quickly before opening the door. He held a hand up in front of his eyes in case she was not dressed, but allowed himself to look around to room to make sure no one else was here.* "Sara? Are you alright? Do you need assistance?"

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 04-Jun-21 06:11 PM

*Sara looked up in sudden fright, the knock on the door making her jump, yanking her from her depths of her palms that'd been laid flat over her face in an attempt to cool her feverish breathing. Tears brimmed dangerously close over the waterline of her eyes, hair mussed and bedding askew, she looked small and a terrible mess atop that. Her thin shoulder shook with the adrenaline that coursed through her as she tried desperately to curb the sob that was begging to wrench itself loose from the tight knot in her throat, but she sat there still, frozen, as she watched Larkin shield his eyes and fumble inside the room.* "I am- sorry, I am okay- I am **okay** I am dressed I-I just..I am sorry I am just..overwhelmed..for the moment." *She finally repeatedly choked out after several beats, and while she verbally rest assured her stability, tears dribbled down rosy cheeks despite it. Odin have mercy- she could not take Larkin seeing her like this.* "Go back to sleep, I am okay- no one has harmed me."

Dr. Larkin 04-Jun-21 06:24 PM

*Larkin lowered his hand and looked her over with a quirked brow,* "You are distressed all the same. A nightmare?" *Obviously. He had been able to tell she was being bothered by something at the tea shop and apparently it had quite a firm grip on her. He ran his fingers through his tousled hair and tilted his head,* "It may help to talk about it. As much as I do not wish to pry into your personal affairs without permission, It is obvious that there has been something weighing on you since the tea house. I will help you if you let me." (edited)

Dr. Amatea Janaii 04-Jun-21 07:08 PM

(Sara) *She sniffled wetly, quickly wiping her eyes with her fingers, pretending as if the tears didn't exist if they were cleaned from her face. It hurt to breathe, it hurt to speak. But not doing so only concerned Larkin further- she would be uncomfortable no matter what she chose at this point..* "I.. I don't know how to.. how to say. There is *so much* Larkin, I just." *She gestured vaguely, wiping her face again of tears and hair. God there was so much hair it almost sent her into a rage, she fumbled with it quickly before flinging the heavy, messy braid over the back of her shoulder, the weight of it hitting the headboard with a loud 'Thump!'* (edited)

Dr Larkin BOT 04-Jun-21 07:44 PM

*Larkin found a box of tissue that every hotel in existence always had and walked over, taking a seat next to her at a respectable distance, not wanting to crowd her.* "Perhaps start from the first thing you remember?"

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 05-Jun-21 12:32 AM

*Sara quietly took the offered tissues with a wet-sounding sniffle. It felt like everything was leaking- her eyes, her nose, her skin, she felt clammy and uncomfortable..but even she knew that once she calmed and talked with Larkin- she'd feel better. But how did she explain? How could he possibly understand? She shook her head miserably, wiping her eyes once more, though this time with the soft tissue.* "I just am not sure you will understand the context..but.." *She had told him before, of where she hailed from, how the rules were instated..but she wasn't sure if she ever explained she wasn't allowed back. She nor Sebastian.* "I feel like a petulant child, crying because I must face the consequences of my actions.. I knew what I was doing..when I left Lofoten, I planned and executed it with help from my elder brother. I escaped into the night without a trace to join Starfleet..and yet..here am I crying, clammy in bed from a nightmare because my Father will not embrace me back, he does not see a daughter, he sees a traitor to their way of life..but I only wanted to learn..I wanted to see what else what out there and it has cost me ever**ything.**" *She choked, tears quickly spilling again as she held both tissue and hand over her mouth to stop the sudden gasp of breath.* "I miss..I miss them, I miss my family- I have no one anymore and even though it has been nearly **five years** it has only dawned reality for me when I tried..when I tried to visit..k**nowing** what would happen, knowing they would not welcome me..but to be rebuffed so harshly by someone who is supposed to love me *unconditionally*..I cannot bear it, Larkin.."

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Dr Larkin BOT 05-Jun-21 02:19 AM

*Larkin listened carefully, and furrowed his brow, trying to put himself in her shoes, then her father's, his mind working on how to possibly fix that issue.* *That was until she broke into tears again. Finding a solution could wait, as he knew comfort was more pressingly needed. He placed a hand on her shoulder, not much thinking, until he felt the rush of her anguish. He would have recoiled, but he was able to close himself off without too much trouble.* *His voice was soft,* "I will say that I am more confused as to his behavior than you, as you expected this. I see no logical reason for a parent to shun a child for wanting to make a life for themself. But the pain you feel from that shunning...that is more understandable." "That being said, you are not completely alone out here. Your brother, he has apparently made his way. How often do you speak with him?"

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 06-Jun-21 12:40 PM

*As he pressed a hand to her shoulder the betrayal and the **hurt** she felt welled within her almost violently, flooding over the edges of her psyche and into his own as her humanity clutched to any form of validation, to any comfort that could be offered as she leaned into his touch and pressed her face into his shoulder. She hurt so profoundly it almost felt like a physical wound as her emotions were not skin-deep. Her anger and sadness combined in a whirlwind of such intensity it was not unlike a tsunami as she grieved onto his shirt with choked sniffles and trembling shoulders.* "I do not know what to do.." *She whispered against him, tears dribbling helplessly down her face , wetting the fabric of his shirt. She was embarrassed, but she couldn't stop, it was the natural order of things, for her to expel the anguish through her tears, but all the same, she hated it, she hated this.* *It took several minutes for her to gather herself enough to answer his question, her head feeling fuzzy with a pounding ache behind her eyes- how awkward poor Larkin must feel, to have to comfort such an emotional being. Pity filled her for the poor Vulcan, but the embarrassment was worse.* "Once a week..he is an Admiral, so he does not speak with me often.. he- he does not wish for me to climb rank simply because of his status..so he takes lengths to keep his distance.. It is only because he wants me to succeed for my skill, not by association. I..I know why but it hurts still."

Dr. Larkin 06-Jun-21 02:31 PM

*It was no issue for him to let her cry, once he was able to raise his boundaries high enough so he could focus through her pain, he gently wrapped his arms around her. Vulcan's were not a huggy people, but he had seen the action performed enough, it was not difficult to figure out. Gently he swept damp strands of her hair out from her face and back.* "You need to tell him how painful this separation is for you. Being Admiral, he may not fully remember how painful it was likely for him. It is a traumatic event being cut off from home. From everything you knew. From what you thought was a support net work. Even Vulcan's have a hard time with isolation, abandonment, being cut off from familial ties. Humanoid's are pack animal's by nature. There is no shame in mourning the loss of your pack, Sara. Though I can tell you that you are not completely without. You have your brother, and you have me and those who you have befriended on Odyssey. You seem to be familiar enough with Vulcan ways you should know once we deem you friend, that is a lifetime commitment. You are *not* as alone as you may feel."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 06-Jun-21 04:12 PM

*As he embraced her, she tentatively slipped arms around his neck , pressing her face into the the crook where his neck met his shoulder. His escalating the touch made it easier to bear, he was likely high-tier blocking all the feelings she was outpouring, and knowing that was a relief in and of itself. It allowed her to slump into him and continue her soft sniffling- she was much calmer by the time she started to speak- but still had not let go of Larkin.* "Perhaps you are right.. For so long, blood was made to be everything- but it is not..found family is just as good, and I cherish them, you included." *She whispered, swallowing tightly and sniffling the last few dregs of water that's accumulated on the edge of her nose.* "Thank you..for comforting me- I am sorry if this was awkward for you.." *Her voice was tight, the knot in her throat was slowly dissolving, but even so- it was hard to speak.* (edited)

Dr Larkin BOT 06-Jun-21 04:50 PM

"I have heard chosen family can often be *better* than blood. As it is like minded individuals you choose based on commonality and trust. Blood is simply genetic ties. It does not denote ownership. Neither does parenthood. Children are their own people who should be nurtured into becoming the best person they can be. Not used as a tool." *He let her cling and cry for as long as she needed or wanted to, gently petting her soft golden hair,* "It is not what I am used to, but offering you kindness is not awkward for me. Besides, what are friends for, hmm?" *This did not stop his mind from trying to think of how better to help her. Vulcan's were natural problem solver's...and multitaskers.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 06-Jun-21 06:38 PM

"If only I could anger and sadden him as much as he has done to me, I might feel some childish sense of vengeance, but I will be thrown into the sea if I try to come back." *She shook her head into the crook of his neck, giving a quick huff of dry laughter.* "I am grateful for you, for my friends, my commanding officers who are all so..indulgent of me.. But I am still so new to this, I have only been gone from that island for under five years.I have learned so **much** but there is so much more I must unlearn as well." *She whispered, sniffling one last time and wiping her eyes. She pulled away after several moments, her cheeks and eyes both puffy and red- it wasn't a pretty look, but no one ever looked pretty when they cried.* "I am sorry again for crying on you..but I *do* feel better.." (edited)

Dr Larkin BOT 06-Jun-21 07:39 PM

"Nothing to apologize for. Especially considering I believe that was my first hug." *Larkin said, his attempt at light humor, as he handed her a few more tissues.* "Well, I will be around should you ever need anything. Would you like me to get you anything?"

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 06-Jun-21 07:57 PM

"Ah, am I really your first? I feel I should have at least called you pretty beforehand." *She teased right back, a small smile slipping onto her lips.* "But..I think I would like to rinse off again..and have a quick cup of tea before I go back to bed- could I ask that of you?" (edited)

Dr Larkin BOT 06-Jun-21 09:05 PM

"Your eyes do dilate significantly when you look at me which usually denotes attraction. Would that suffice as a compliment?" *Larkin teased back before standing.* "You may. Go rinse off and I shall make some tea." *Luckily he had brought a soothing night time tea.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 06-Jun-21 10:11 PM

"...Do they really?" *Damn, caught whole ass red-handed and nothing but a 'really?' to say for herself. Ah..well..she smiled to him regardless and slipped out of bed, grabbing a spare nightgown from her luggage and sweeping herself into the bathroom once again.* *It was only a very quick rinse, enough to wash the sweat from her body that'd accumulated from her nightmare, replacing it with the scent of some sugary Earth fruit. She redressed in the plain gown and stepped back out into the common room, and then the bedroom, looking for Larkin as she brushed her fingers through her still-drying hair.*

Dr Larkin BOT 06-Jun-21 11:20 PM

*Larkin had replicated some hot water and was in the common room, steeping the tea. He had added small little tea cookies in case she wanted a snack.* *Finally he heard the little pitter patter of her feet on the floor and looked up,* "Feel better?"

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 06-Jun-21 11:41 PM

*Flopping her hair over her shoulder and down her back, she padded over to her much taller friend, inspecting the steeped tea and cookies curiously, if not a touch excitedly. She had a bit of an appetite now that she'd showered and felt better- she really hadn't eaten much at the tea house due to her preoccupied thoughts.* "Like a new person. This is a lovely spread, maybe you should quit being a surgeon and work at the tea house- I think you might have a knack for it." *She hummed with a pleased tone, looking to Larkin out the side of her eye to gauge his reaction.*

Dr Larkin BOT 06-Jun-21 11:56 PM

*A sharp brow arched,* "You think so? I am not sure I could compete with Vectra and her skill." *He gave a slow blink and waved a hand offering up a seat, before pouring two cups.* "I was sincere before. Should you ever need to vent, you can always come to me."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 07-Jun-21 12:05 AM

"It seems a bit contrarian for such an emotional person to go to someone who intentionally subverts their own emotions just to *vent.* You have told me my emotions do not bother you, but would it not be..tedious? To deal with my ramblings about-" *She gestured vaguely into the air with a roll of her eyes.* "-Catching handsy ensigns in the arboretum, my family, my inability to use contractions, or the characters in my books being idiots and not realizing their intentions?" *She huffed finally, stepping over to take the seat her offered, tucking her nightgown beneath her politely with one hand as she sat down, crossing one leg over the other primly.* "Not even getting started on just my feelings in general."

Dr Larkin BOT 07-Jun-21 12:19 AM

"I can tell you that I find nothing you talk about *tedious*. As a doctor, I also understand the importance of getting things *off your chest*"

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 07-Jun-21 12:28 AM

"You do me a great kindness for offering me that, Larkin.." *She murmured with weary eyes. She could of course go to other people, it was not as if she had a lack of options, she was sure Commander Kestra would be delighted to hear the gossip she knew- but with everything that had happened to her lately, she was trying to not crowd her.* "Unfortunately I do not know of anything I can offer in return..perhaps a touch of gossip here and there..trade books. Maybe fruit?"

Dr Larkin BOT 07-Jun-21 12:56 AM

"Your company is sufficient, though I will never turn down fruit. Or gossip. Or books." *Larkin slipped a tiny little crick of a smirk, grabbing a little cookie.* "I am a fairly easy person to please, I think. Endless physicals are tedious, but not you."

Dr. Amatea Janaii 07-Jun-21 01:43 AM

(Sara) "You have not had to give me a proper physical in months, not since after the anamoly. I will say, despite them being tedious for you, you are remarkably efficient at them~" *She grinned, taking the cup of tea from the left side that'd sat brewing for a bit, allowing the heat of it to warm her hands. As hot as Vulcan got during the day, the nights were a bit chilled. She suddenly wished she'd had the forethought to bring a fluffy robe for the night time instead of just her nightgowns.* "But I do agree, you are a low maintenance type individual, I do not have to keep talk of calculus equations or string theory to keep your attention. Or perhaps the bar is just in Ràns' realm... Bit..speaking of gossip..do you want to hear of the two Ensigns I caught kissing in the rose garden?" (edited)

Dr. Larkin 07-Jun-21 01:47 AM

*Larkin's brow rose higher, and he got a bit more comfortable, lifting his cup to his lips and making a show of "trying" not to look interested, but the glint in his eyes always betrayed him,* "In the rose garden, you say..."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 07-Jun-21 10:58 AM

"Ensigns Tanker and Ko'naq. I was trimming up some roots to keep the roses from spreading and as I crawled under a bush to begin ripping out a root system canal, I came out on the other side and Tanker had Ko'naq pinned on her back in the grass. An amazing feat for a human male as Klingon females are much taller and heavier than them! But they were lost in the proverbial sauce until I stood up, and he scrambled off of her as if he had been touched with fire." *She giggled, her cheeks rosy with the memory.* "I felt so bad to interrupt and I tried to fix it and offer to leave but they apologized and left before I could. My heart goes out to Ko'naq, I would have been so disappointed to have been pinned and kissed like my life depended on it, only for some garden pixie to ruin the moment." (edited)

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Dr Larkin BOT 07-Jun-21 04:19 PM

"Do human's not enjoy retelling embarrassing stories? It sounds like something they can both find amusing at a later date. I would especially be curious to hear Ensign Ko'naq's vivid retelling. Klingon's really do tell the best stories."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 07-Jun-21 05:04 PM

"Oh I am sure it would be all too exciting to hear of her heroics, defending her small, human mate against the perils of a dirt-smucked garden fairy- barely escaped with their lives, y'know~" *She joked, finally lifting the teacup to her lips and taking a sip. It was lovely and warm- just what she'd needed, actually. She hummed in appreciation, taking another quick sip before setting it down once more, though her hands never quite leaving the cup.* "Do Vulcans enjoy that? I did not think Vulcans ever got embarrassed."

Dr Larkin BOT 07-Jun-21 05:51 PM

"There is little that would embarrass us. Anything from overt to subtle shows of emotions, as counterproductive as that seems. Pon Farr, especially. Getting caught in a compromising position I would imagine ties in with the first example." *Larkin lifted his tea for a sip, trying to imagine what that must be like. Though Vulcan's were anything but careless in such matters, and probably for that reason.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 07-Jun-21 08:17 PM

"But you have multiple fail-safes in place so that no embarrassment like that befalls you, yes? Though, I find it hard to imagine you being embarrassed or shy in any case- you have always been a pinnacle of cool, calm, and collected. I very much appreciate that about you." *He'd told her about the priestesses on Vulcan, but she had a vague curiosity..had he ever visited one? That might not be a good question for now- not when her emotions were so rallied and tumultuous like an ocean storm-* "Does your father care about you being so outspoken of Vulcan practices? Of being friends with Terrans? I mean, I know it is inconsequential what he may think of me or our friendship..but I have to admit I have some anxiety about it." *Especially after what she'd just gone through with her own father..*

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Dr Larkin BOT 08-Jun-21 12:31 AM

"There are times where we argue, but he is fairly open minded. He did raise me. I have no doubt he will find you agreeable. He certainly would never treat you as your father has." "I could not tell you the last time I was embarrassed. I will not say it is impossible. Unlikely, but not impossible." *His brow crawled up slowly as he thought about what could possibly do it, though baring Pon Farr gone wrong, there wasn't anything coming to mind.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 08-Jun-21 02:15 PM

*Sara looked on in abject horror as Larkin spoke. He argued? With his father? That sounded downright dangerous. She blinked several times in disbelief, trying to wrap her head around the idea.* "That is..wild. If you argued with my parents, my father would promptly smack you upside your head- or spank you if you were little. I like your dad much better already." *She murmured with a hint of amusement, taking another sip of her tea before speaking again.* "Their word was law, opinions and all."

Dr. Larkin 08-Jun-21 02:21 PM

"Arguing is *supposed* to lead to a debate, as is what Vulcan arguing is. Debates. We also do not abuse our children." *Everything about her village and their very unprogressive nature, he couldn't help not be surprised their child rearing practices were also backwards. It was truly unfortunate.* "However, enough about your father. You have given too much heed to his voice tonight. If you would like, I can tuck you in and provide a bit of neropressure massage that should keep the dreams at bay."

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Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 08-Jun-21 02:27 PM

*She considered it for a moment. A neuropressure massage? Like..mentally squishing her soggy little brain together like raw hamburger meat? It sounded gross in theory, but she was open to any suggestion that meant she would have, in the very least, a dreamless sleep for the rest of the night.* "I am..not opposed, but may I ask how you do neuropressure massage? Because it sounds like you are going to telekinetically jiggle my squishy little Terran brain around like a jello cup until I sleep." *She chuckled, standing up from the table with a quick brush off of her nightgown.*

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Dr. Larkin 08-Jun-21 02:29 PM

*Larkin quirked a brow at the description as he als stood,* "It is simply a series of massaging certain pressure points in your shoulders, neck, and the base of your skull. What is jello?"

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 08-Jun-21 02:34 PM

"Its a gelatin-based food flavored generally with fruit..it is very jiggly. But yes, please, I think I would genuinely enjoy a bit of sleep respite from my own thoughts." *She breathed out wearily, pushing in the chair to the small table and heading over to her bed. It was absolutely torn apart from her fitful sleep, a pillow on the floor, a sheet hanging off one corner, and the comforter crumpled and kicked to the foot of the bed. She sighed and went about making the bed quickly so that it was habitable for sleep once more. Fluffing up the pillow, she sat gingerly on the bed, only covering up her exposed feet from view, and the cold.*

Dr. Larkin 08-Jun-21 02:50 PM

"Then face your back to me." *Larkin sat on the bed, a leg tucked under himself so it was out of the way, and as she turned, he started between her shoulder blades, two two points on the sides of her spine. The pressure was firm but not hard enough to paralyze her. and he slowly move up and around her shoulder blades.* "Pressure points aside, when was the last time you had a thorough work over? You are a bundle of knots."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 08-Jun-21 02:58 PM

*Almost immediately upon putting pressure between her shoulder blades, her vertebrae popped. Her neck, back and arms were tight- but not exactly in a good way.* "Ah.." *Gods, when was the last time she'd had this done? Maybe a few years back? Yeah, back in the academy, she remembered.* "My first year of academy, I had attended a sparring class with a friend and ending up hitting the ground so hard I went to a chiropractor and had my hips and lower back realigned. That was the last time..as I have found out I am less of an active fighter and more of a tactical-exit sort of girl." *She chuckled.*

Dr. Larkin 08-Jun-21 04:07 PM

"There is nothing wrong with getting out of the way. I myself am not much of a fighter, despite knowing how. However, I am also well versed in many different techniques. You should make a habit of coming in for realignment." *He worked his way up to her shoulders, massaging the tense muscles as a bit of extra effort. It was needed to be able to properly apply pressure to the nerve points. Before long he hand his fingers crawling up the back of her neck, pushing invisible buttons at the base of her skull.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 08-Jun-21 04:30 PM

*Her head flopped down against her collarbone not unlike a ragdoll as he expertly manipulated her neck and shoulders. Her back gave off some startlingly loud sounds that akinned to a popped rice cereal she'd seen a friend of hers eat for breakfast before. The snapping and cracking sound was almost jarring at first before she relaxed into it..admitting inwardly to herself that maybe she was a little tense.* "What sort of techniques? Suus Mahna? Or more Offensive ones than Evasive- aCK." *She hissed, her shoulder blade seemingly clicking back into place now that the knot of tight muscle had been moved.* "If it means anything, I would never fight you. You would be an intimidating foe." (edited)

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Dr. Larkin 08-Jun-21 04:43 PM

"I meant for chiropractic practices and massage. However, with combat, more evasive but some offensive. It also helps that I know humanoid biology *very* well. Not to brag, but I can be quite an effective killing machine. Though I am truly a pacifist. I would prefer not to fight at all and will chose wit as my weapon every time." *Larkin couldn't help the slight smirk as she was was puddy in his hands. Which was the goal as she should be relaxed enough to sleep. So he finished up with a light scalp massage to drive the blood flow home, and quickly braided her hair before handing her the pinched end,* "I assume you have a hair tie."

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Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 08-Jun-21 04:59 PM

*What, what? Who? She'd completely dazed out and had almost dozed off once he'd begun massaging her temples. Stress ebbed away in gentle waves- and she'd been almost right..it was kinda like he was squishing her little hamburger meat brain. It was divinity. Her eyes only blearily half-opened when he'd pulled away, braiding her hair as quickly as she was able to. Where had he learned to braid hair like that? The half-formed thought was swallowed by his voice and his gesture of handing her the end of her long braid- teal eyes glazed and unfocused as she looked back to him with a near confused expression, as if she hadn't understood Standard for a moment.* "Oh. Yes. Yes I have a bunch..on my..my nightstand." *She blinked a few times to wake herself up, leaning over to grab a yellow one off of the pile she'd set down and quickly tied it around the end.* "I- do not remember a single thing you said, Larkin.." (edited)

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Dr. Larkin 08-Jun-21 05:03 PM

"I see. Then jello state has commenced? You should sleep much better now." *Larkin said as he stood, effectively ready to tuck her in. An action he had done many times for patients who were unable to. He was told once the action was comforting.*

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Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 08-Jun-21 08:38 PM

"I believe so. Permission to flop down and pass out? I might be congealed and set by morning." *She joked, laying down in the warm spot where Larkin had previously been, already much more comfortable and very ready to pass out.* "I appreciate you Larkin..I do not know if I tell you often enough. I really..really needed this." *She whispered, a soft smile slipping across her features as she looked up to him. How had she been so lucky to snatch such a good friend?*

Dr Larkin BOT 08-Jun-21 09:31 PM

*He pulled the blankets up and tucked her in like a burrito, mostly an attempt to be funny,* "Jello secured. And you have told me before. I am glad to be of service, Sara." *Larkin gave a little bow,* "You may be correct. Perhaps I did missy calling in hospitality? Rest well, and tomorrow shall be flora and my father."

3

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 08-Jun-21 10:25 PM

"I look forward to it." *She murmured back, eyes already half-mast as she looked on at him, sleep soon to overtake her. She gave him her best smile she could manage..before blinking just half a second too long and passing out.*

Dr Larkin BOT 08-Jun-21 11:48 PM

*Larkin gave a soft smile before yawning. His bed was also calling, so he Toddled back to sleep himself.*

Dr Larkin BOT 09-Jun-21 12:24 AM

*Morning came, and Larkin had risen and showered, dressing for the day in similar casual Vulcan attire.* *He had taken a seat in the common area and was reading through his padd waiting for Sara to rise on her own.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 09-Jun-21 10:43 AM

*Sara had slept clear till ten in the morning- far, far past her normal waking time of seven. She blearily woke with a soft groan, turning over onto her left side, her back sore and aching from the rough treatment- as well as having not moved a single inch from where she'd been when she'd laid down. It took her several minutes to full wake, sitting up in bed with a quick yawn and tediously rubbing at her weary eyes with the edges of her fingers. There was a lot to do today- and the Vulcan sun was already shining brightly above them..she needed to get a move on. In short order, she showered, dressed, brushed her teeth and hair and headed out into the common room where Larkin was, giving him a soft wave of greeting.* "Good morning Larkin, I hope you did not have to wait on me very long?"

Dr. Amatea Janaii 09-Jun-21 01:01 PM

@Dr. Larkin

Dr Larkin BOT 09-Jun-21 03:52 PM

*Larkin had his eyes firmly locked on his PADD, but moved his head slightly toward the sound of Sara,* "Not at all. I found a few recent articles my father published and was just catching up. How did you sleep?"

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 09-Jun-21 04:32 PM

"Like the dead. I have never slept so hard in my life I think.. well.. maybe the night after my first academy field day. Thank you again." *Curious about what his father published, she walked across the room and seated herself on the arm of the cushioned chair Larkin was in, reading over his shoulder with much brighter eyes now that she'd finally gotten some much needed sleep.* "You said your father is a doctor as well, yes? Medical stuff I presume?"

Dr Larkin BOT 09-Jun-21 04:56 PM

"Medical research. He deals less with patients, more with data. He also said he will meet us at the gardens in two hours and we can do dinner at the house. I thought you might sleep in so we scheduled for that."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 09-Jun-21 05:40 PM

"Oh! That was very nice of him to schedule around me- sorry to have been a bother- I promise it was not intentional." *She murmured, scooting a bit closer so that she could read. A possible eye checkup might be needed when she got back aboard- or maybe her eyes were still tired from the constant squinting from the sun.* "How do you read with the text so small? Is this surgeon training?"

3

Dr Larkin BOT 09-Jun-21 05:52 PM

*Larkin quirked a brow, not having thought about it, but perhaps she had a point. He magnified the print a bit and held the padd up a bit better for her to see, letting the back of his head rest on what he was sure was her arm.* "It is no bother, I promise. The surprise in his voice when I mentioned I had brought a friend was *quite* noticeable. It has been a while since there was in inflection of excitement."

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 09-Jun-21 06:05 PM

"Its odd that he would be so surprised. You are a very amicable man and a pleasure to be around. You are not so cold that you could not be surrounded by friends if you felt so inclined." *She hummed in response, allowing him to lean against her freely now that she knew he blocked himself near constantly- it was a relief to not always be so worried about it.* "Or does he not think you capable?"

Dr Larkin BOT 09-Jun-21 06:19 PM

"He knows I am capable, but I usually do not make such close friends with women. Not what he has seen, at any rate. My father is naturally concerned for my future since N'Vae passed." *Larkin was doing his best not to mention his father assumed this was a blossoming romantic relationship, though he probably should. He just did not wish to make Sara feel pressured or uncomfortable in any way. Though, logically speaking, warning her would be the thing to do.* "I do not wish to make this weird for you, and I am at a loss for any other way to put it. He has been insistent on my finding another mate. I have given him zero reason to assume anything other than friendship between us, but he may simply think I am naive. I just do not want you to feel as if this is the reason I invited you here with me, because it is not. I very much enjoy your company." *Larkin stopped rambling, and awaited her thoughts on the matter.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 09-Jun-21 06:34 PM

*Well. That was certainly.. a thought. Practically speaking, she could very much understand where Larkins father was coming from, it is as a parent should be- concerned for his child and only wanting the best for them, to ensure their best life. But she could also see why Larkin was hesitant. Luckily for him, she was quite understanding.* "I am not uncomfortable with that. I can definitely see both sides of the situation and while I am sure it might be a touch awkward for you due to what your father might possibly say.. I will admit when we first met.. I was open to the idea of going that route. But I am perfectly happy and fulfilled with our friendship as is.. however if you need me to fake it until you do find a mate to keep your father sated- I would do that for you." *She smiled, both eyes closing when she did so.* "I might have done the same thing if I had been given an opportunity back when I still lived on Lofoten."

1

Dr. Larkin 09-Jun-21 07:41 PM

*Larkin paused in his reading and his ears twitched slightly. She had been interested, or she still was? Would it bother him if she was? Would it bother him if she was no longer?* *Then the mention of her home, again. The idea that her father was so callous bristled at the back of his mind still, but he pushed all of that side.* "I do not wish to lie to him. He will likely make some assumptions of his own. I simply did not wish for it to catch you off guard, as that would be unfair to you. Best to clear the air before hand. Not that the assumptions would bother me." *He had to admit the idea of a courtship with Sara was not off putting in the least. But if she was no longer interested...*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 09-Jun-21 08:00 PM

"Well. In this instance we can choose the option of neither confirming, nor denying his allegations. That way, we do not lie or put ourselves in a compromising position- but in that same breath it does not, again, make me uncomfortable. There are far worse options to be hypothetically paired off with." *She joked, giving him a subtle wink.* "At any rate, thank you for giving me a heads up- I will at least know what to say and how to respond accordingly without fumbling. Should we go ahead and head out then?" *As loathe as she was to move, as the back of his head had just found a comfortable nook within the bend of her arm, she gently moved away to stand, straightening out the long sleeve of her green linen dress- a much better option for a human than the dense fabric of Vulcan clothiers.*

Dr. Larkin 09-Jun-21 08:08 PM

*Larkin would have given a slight pout, but she was correct. It was time to head out.* *So he stood and headed toward the door, picking up a back pack filled with water and a few snacks, as well as a few first aid supplies to help Sara survive his homeworld. One would think that he actually took massive amounts of joy in preparing the way he did. Which would be true.* "I am well stocked for anything you should possibly require in a pinch. After you, Pixie." *He opened the door and held it open for her.*

Lt. JG Sara Bjørge 09-Jun-21 08:26 PM

"You are too good to me, Larkin. I am sorry to be so delicate.. but if it is any consolation? I am breathing much better and my energy has actually returned.. though I am suddenly unsure if its from sleeping overnight or the neuromassage. We can say both perhaps, yes?" *She mused with a soft tone, brushing her hand across his elbow before she headed out the door, waiting a moment to allow Larkin to step out as well, and then proceeding to head towards their destination.* (edited)

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