Earth / oakland

USS Odyssey

[Archived] Earth / oakland

Earth

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 02:23 PM

*Steph's house, the Medrano family home, had stood the test of time over and over. Originally built in the early 1900's, it had been rebuilt over and over. Steph's family had lived there for close to a hundred years, having been acquired by her grandfather in the 2300's. She stood outside with a smile on her face as she clasped her hands together.* "Home! I never get tired of seeing it! I could be gone for a day or a decade and it wouldn't lose its impact..."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 02:26 PM

*He walked up to her with a smile.* "Why hello there! How've you been?"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 02:33 PM

"Fine, I suppose. I'm happy to be home."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 02:34 PM

"Good to hear." *He grinned and put an arm around her.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 02:53 PM

*She moved aside.* "...no thank you... PDAs are a bit strange..."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 02:54 PM

"Ok, no problem." *He smiled and stood at a respectable distance.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 02:55 PM

"This is my house- I dunno if I told you about it." *She motioned to the old, cream-colored house. It looked as though it were in brand new condition.* "...I lived here till I was 16."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 02:56 PM

"Looks cozy." *He looked at her, smiling a bit.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 03:01 PM

"Mhm! Four bedrooms, three bathrooms. Parlor, library, dining room, and attic." *She kissed him on the cheek with a quick peck.* "...there's my PDA."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 03:21 PM

*He smiled.* "Aren't you lovely." *He grinned a bit.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 03:42 PM

"Not really, but if you insist." *She thought for a moment.* "Come- I wanna show you something." (edited)

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 03:50 PM

"After you." *He grinned.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 03:57 PM

*She opened the door and led him upstairs. One door upstairs stood out: as opposed to the white doors, this one was a sky blue one, with a single flower square in the middle.* "...this one's mine." *As she opened the door, her room looked as though it were a museum dedicated to 20th-century nostalgia: posters covered almost every inch of the blue-and-white striped wallpaper, and toys filled the shelves, ranging from plush toys to action figures.* "It's just the way I left it!" *She smiled and nodded.* "...yep! Everything's the same."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 04:08 PM

*He chuckled and looked around.* "Wow, this is amazing!" *He grinned and looked at her.* "Mind if I sit down?" *He gestured to the bed.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 04:10 PM

"Sure, if you'd like- this isn't what I wanted to show you, but I'll get to that soon enough." *Steph approached one of the shelves and grabbed an action figure: it was Moon Knight, definitely an antique, but in mint condition. She handed it to him.* "Here- you can have him. He's one of the rarer ones I have. It's Moon Knight. He's like Batman... except... his costume is white. And he's a boxer. And he's not a billionaire. And he doesn't have a sidekick that goes everywhere with him. And he has superpowers. But aside from that, he's like Batman..."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 04:12 PM

*He smiled and looked at the figure before looking back at her.* "It's amazing, thank you Steph." *He grinned and gave her a kiss on the cheek.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 04:13 PM

"You're welcome... I've- I got other ones if you'd prefer someone else..." *She turned to look at the other ones, but then stopped at a poster.* "*Karate Kid.* Ever seen it?" *She smiled at pulled the chair out from her desk.*

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 04:26 PM

"Oh no, this is perfect." *He grinned.* "Really, it's alright." *He smiled a bit as he layed the figure down on the bed.* "I haven't seen it actually, I guess it's about a kid that learns karate?"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 04:30 PM

"Mhm! He moves to L.A. from New Jersey and gets picked on by bullies. But an old man who works maintenance for his apartment complex teaches him karate to defend himself..." *She spun back and forth in her chair.* "...it spawned three sequels, a cartoon, a remake, and finally a sequel series about the main antagonist." *She stood up and looked at the other posters.* "The 1980's was one of the finest decades in American cinema. It spawn countless classic films, many of which you'll find the posters here on my walls!" *She motioned to the other posters.* "Streets of Fire, Back to the Future, Empire Strikes Back- they're all here. And... I guess the reason why I'm showing you all this stuff is so you get a better idea of who I am: this room is... like a time capsule. I tried my best to keep it as authentic to the 20th-century as possible..."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 04:47 PM

"Well Steph, I must say I'm impressed by this all." *He grinned softly at her.* "If anything, you really did help me understand what kind of person you are and I love you for who you are." *He smiled softly.* "If you'd want we could go visit my parents place back in Hattem? I bet they'd love to meet you and then you'll get better insight as to who I was back in the day."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 04:48 PM

"Sure... sometime." *She stood up.* "Wanna see what I was gonna show you?"

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 04:48 PM

"Oh, yes please!" *He stood up as well, seeing what she'd do.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 04:52 PM

"It's in the attic! Something I think you'll like. If not, I'm sorry." *Down the hallway, Steph pulled down the staircase to the attic. It was extremely well-lit, with plants in a wide window. The rest of the attic, however, looked much like a laboratory- one half contained necessary chemistry equipment, the other looked like it was designed with engineering and robotics in mind, with tools neatly laid out, and half-finished robots about.* "This is my lab."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 04:55 PM

"Oh wow..." *He looked around, quite amazed.* "I'll have to say, Steph. You've made quite the place here." *He chuckled a bit as he sat on a chair.* "This has all the bells and whistles a scientist could wish for..." *He was still in awe, and you could absolutely see that.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 04:57 PM

"Papa brought most of it here. First it was the engineering stuff- I originally intended to be an engineer, as you know. Robotics was something that... made me happy."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 04:58 PM

*He nodded and placed a hand on her shoulder.* "We could whip something up if you'd like?" *he smiled softly.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 05:00 PM

"I dunno- I wasn't expecting to, but if you want to." *She picked up the head of an unfinished robot, wires and all.* "This was F.R.E.D. I named him that so his name would be an acronym. *'Friendly Robotic Endearment Device.'* He was originally designed just to be nice to people. I never finished him."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 05:01 PM

"Wanna see if we could get it working? Not fully, but basic functions and such." *He just wanted Steph to be happy, so he'd gladly do this for her.*

Lt. JG Katie Chaffee 21-Dec-20 05:02 PM

(Wasn’t very *nice* of you to leave him unfinished.) (edited)

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 05:03 PM

"Hmm... sure, if you want. It should only take a few minutes. At least he'll be talking..." *She placed the head back down, then tinkered for a moment before the orange eyes lit up.* "At least we know he's somewhat functional..."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 05:04 PM

*He stood up and walked over, helping a bit where possible.* "Looks a bit menacing with those big orange eyes." *He chuckled a bit.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 05:06 PM

"...they were the only eyes I could find- I was fourteen, mind you..." *She tied her hair up in a ribbon and made adjustments to the back of his head.*

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 05:08 PM

"I don't blame you, it also looks quite awesome from a different angle." *He rolled up his sleeves and grabbed some tools.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 05:11 PM

"...and now, I just have to enable audible functions-" *With a spark, she jumped, and a low whirring sound was heard. His eyes flickered.*

F.R.E.D. BOT 21-Dec-20 05:12 PM

"He-he-hello! I'm F.R.E.D.- Friendly Robotic Endearment Device! How can I make you feel good today?!"

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 05:13 PM

"That's new." *He laughed a bit.* "Well, he works, that's for sure."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 05:13 PM

*Steph smiled and held the head up, looking in its eyes.* "Hello again, F.R.E.D.! Remember me...?""

F.R.E.D. BOT 21-Dec-20 05:15 PM

"Young Miss Medrano! Still playing with robots?" *His eyes flickered again.* "...according to my calculations, it has been approximately: twelve years, four months, sixteen days, and... three hours since our last encounter! I could hug you! ...if I had arms."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 05:16 PM

*He grinned a bit.* "We could make them for him?" *He looked at her.* "Wanna give it a try?"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 05:17 PM

"*Geulae al-a,* I never finished you. School took priority, and then I joined Starfleet." *She set the head back down on the table, this time upright.* "Sure! I had some ideas about it, but I never fully fixed him."

F.R.E.D. BOT 21-Dec-20 05:18 PM

"It's quite understandable! Might I saw your glasses are looking quite... transparent today?" *His eyes flickered, looking at Xander.* "Ah! Hello- I don't believe we've met!"

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 05:19 PM

"Let's get a crackin' shall we?" *He looked at Fred and smiled a bit.* "We haven't, no. I'm Xander, and I guess you could say I'm Steph's boyfriend." *He smiled at her as he looked over.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 05:21 PM

*Steph removed a few blueprints from a drawer and grabbed some of the parts near her.* "...hopefully it won't take too long. I'm sure we'll be done by tomorrow! I'd already made some headway with him..."

F.R.E.D. BOT 21-Dec-20 05:23 PM

"It's quite alright- I'm content being a head. My mother always said I'd get a *head* in life!" *He paused for laughs, then continued.* "I'm joking, of course- as an artifical life form, I have no reference for maternal affection, nor parentage. Aside from Miss Medrano."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 05:27 PM

*He chuckled a bit.* "Well, she's quite the loving person, I can say that right away."

F.R.E.D. BOT 21-Dec-20 05:27 PM

"Indeedidly so... most indeedidly. Wait, that's not a word..."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 05:30 PM

*He chuckled a bit.* "I guess we'll need to upgrade your linguistic database, hm?" (edited)

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 05:31 PM

"*Ne,* that was on the list of things to fix..." *She began repairing an already partially-built body, sparks flying a bit, but she was careful. Despite not having practiced any robotics work in almost a decade, it came as naturally to her as it had when she was younger.*

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 05:34 PM

"Careful! Don't want you getting hurt." *He grinned as he handed her some tools to help her.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 05:35 PM

"I'll be okay- from the time I could walk, I was messing with these things..." *She smiled and continued, quickly putting the body together- it was a bit shorter than a human, with hands that resembled clamps.*

F.R.E.D. BOT 21-Dec-20 05:36 PM

"Ah! A body! It's quite exhilarating- \*'I ain't got no**body...\*** Well, I will soon!"

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 05:36 PM

"Looks a bit like something from a 20th century film, no?" *He chuckled a bit.* "It looks great."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 05:37 PM

"Thank you- I was kind of inspired by old... android movies. Like *I, Robot,* among others. Of course, those looked more plastic...y. Finishing a rough body I started when I was younger looks a little thrown together, but I'm sure I can improve it."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 05:39 PM

"That film I actully did watch, Sonny was quite the interesting fellow." *He smiled at her.* "I'm sure you can, you are a woman of wonders after all."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 05:41 PM

*After some time passed, Steph began to connect the necessary wires from his head to the body, which had taken more of a form that she'd intended to.* "Okay, F.R.E.D.... Switching you off, for just a second. Don't wanna overload your processor all at once..."

F.R.E.D. BOT 21-Dec-20 05:42 PM

"It's just like a nap! *'A candy-colored clown, they call the Sandman, tip-toes to my room every niiiiiiii-'*" *F.R.E.D.'s voice slowed to a halt as Steph picked his head up.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 05:43 PM

*Steph handed the head to Xander.* "Care to do the honors?"

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 05:44 PM

"It's your robot, you should do it." *He grinned at her.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 05:46 PM

"Oh, okay. I appreciate the help, by the way." *She smiled and began to affix the head to the neck, rotors and necessary parts being adjusted as she spoke.* "...truth be told, I'd almost forgotten about F.R.E.D.- he was a project, back in high school, for robotics class." *She held her wrench in her mouth, using her hands to adjust him as she spoke.* "...he was supposed to be a... robot butler. An assistant- someone who could both help you emotionally *and* physically..."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 05:47 PM

"I must say, he does look like the type that would do that." *He grinned and sat down.* "It looks quite good."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 05:49 PM

"...I pushed it back- I thought, *'I'll enter him next year!'* Then, the next year. Then, my acceptance letter came, I entered Starfleet Academy, and the rest is history..."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 05:50 PM

"Well, I'm happy you joined Starfleet, otherwise I'd never met you. And besides! You'll get to finish him now."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 05:51 PM

"...yeah, but what will I *do* with him...? I don't think we can-" *She thought for a moment, then smiled.* "...he'll be the caretaker."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 05:52 PM

"The caretaker of...?"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 05:53 PM

"My house." *She powered him back up, and the joints moved, wobbly for a moment.* "After all, **someone** has to take care of the place while I'm away..."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 05:54 PM

"Fair point." *He grinned and stood up.* "Now, let's see if he blows up or stays alive."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 05:55 PM

*Steph stepped back, as F.R.E.D.'s eyes glowed, flickering.* "Well, F.R.E.D.? Say something!"

F.R.E.D. BOT 21-Dec-20 05:57 PM

"S-s-s-something..." *He stood, legs buckling a bit, but gained his balance, taking a few steps forward, then backward. A step left, and one right.* "I... I can walk! Oh, frabjous day, Miss Medrano!" *He practiced with his legs, leaning left and right, back and forth.*

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 05:57 PM

"That's a start." *He chuckled.* "At least he didn't blow off the roof with a overloaded processor." (edited)

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 05:58 PM

"And your hands...? How do they feel?" *Steph examined one of his clamp-like hands, adjusting a screw.*

F.R.E.D. BOT 21-Dec-20 06:01 PM

"They feel great! Stupendous! Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!" *F.R.E.D. moved in a dance-like way as he sang quietly.* "*When a man's an empty kettle, he should be on his mettle. And yet I'm torn apart Just because I'm presumin' That I could be kind of human If I only had a heart!"*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 06:03 PM

*Steph laughed a bit as she put her hands in her pockets.* "The Wizard of Oz...? Abstract, yet... somehow fitting."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 06:03 PM

"So he's quoting Wizard of Oz now? You really did fot every 20 and 21st century movie in that brain of his, didn't you?" *He chuckled a bit as he looked at Fred.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 06:03 PM

"Fred?" *Steph approached him face-to-face, smiling, but serious.*

F.R.E.D. BOT 21-Dec-20 06:04 PM

"Yes, ma'am! Ready to serve! Your wish is my command!" *Fred stood at attention and saluted her, as if part of his programming.*

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 06:05 PM

"And he's part of the military." *He laughed a bit.* "I must say, Steph. You really out-did yourself."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 06:06 PM

"I've got a job for you: I'm not sure when I'll be back again, after I leave, this time. So I need you to take care of things while I'm gone: the house, the garden, the yard... you're in charge, Fred." *She smiled and took her lab coat off, placing it on his shoulders.* "...a symbol of your new station."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 06:07 PM

*He smiled a bit, placing a hand on Fred's shoulder.* "You'll do fine, and be sure to keep everything in one piece, will ya?" *He grinned at the tincan.*

F.R.E.D. BOT 21-Dec-20 06:08 PM

*He made a sound that almost sounded like sobbing, then took Steph's hand and shook it.* "Oh, thank you, ma'am! You won't regret it! If my heart was made of more than metal it'd be fit to burst!"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 06:09 PM

"Of course! I know you'll do well." *She turned to Xander and let her hair down.* "Now that we've got that dealt with, what comes next?"

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 06:10 PM

"What about we go and have some dinner?"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 06:13 PM

"Sure- there's a few places to eat nearby. What are you in the mood for? Seafood? Steak? Mediterranean? Italian? There's one of everything here!" *She smiled and leaned on her workbench.*

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 06:15 PM

*He smiled back.* "I'll let you choose, I'm down for anything."

F.R.E.D. BOT 21-Dec-20 06:16 PM

"While you're out, I'll just... patrol the grounds- there may be mice, or raccoons, or... other rodentia about. But they have yet to meet their destruction at the hands of my broom!" *His eyes turned slightly red as he grabbed a nearby broom and began to scour.* "Should you require anything, do not hesitate to ask! I live to serve!" *He began to walk downstairs and search for vermin nearby.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 06:17 PM

"...hmm... I don't remember having him programmed for hunting..." *She shrugged.* "Oh, well. What's the worst that could happen? He violently sweeps them to death...?" *She stood and adjusted her glasses.* "Pizza is always a good thing. Oooooh, maybe somewhere with pizza and ice cream? Or... *cake.* I like cake. It's nice."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 06:18 PM

"Sure! Sounds great!" *He grinned and stook out his hand.* "Lead the way?"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 06:18 PM

"Sure!" *She gave him a low-five and raced out the door.* "Race you there!"

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 06:19 PM

*He chuckled and went after her.* "Oh, it's on!"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 06:21 PM

*She slid down the railing on her behind, then jumped to her feet.* "...there's a place a few blocks away- best pizza you've ever had, I guarantee." *She walked outside with her hands behind her back, leaning forward a bit.* "...some people like pepperoni. Some people like ham. Some people even like pineapple on their pizza. Personally? I like chicken and bacon."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 06:22 PM

*He smiled and went along with her.* "Even better then authentic Italian pizza? You're making very promising claims." *He chuckled a bit.* "Personally, I like the calzone. It's like a wrap, but pizza!"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 06:24 PM

"California pizza has been an institution for a long time- in fact, we used to have a chain called *'California Pizza Kitchen,'* headquartered in Beverly Hills!" *She happily hopped up on the sidewalk as she led him.* "...Beverly Hills is famous for being... famous, really. It's overrated, but still a nice place."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 06:26 PM

*He nodded.* "I'll take your word for it, back in The Netherlands we have 2 major cities and a few among the locals that are very popular. One of which was Zwolle, was just outside of Hattem were I grew up." *He grinned a bit.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 06:28 PM

"I spent most of my time here, though I've been all over California. Most of the West Coast, too." *She stopped and pointed in the distance.* "Over there was where I won Sheldon! And over that hill- soapbox derby race. I took second place when I was six. Papa took me out for ice cream later..."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 06:32 PM

*He grinned.* "Well, I'm happy you did win him. He seemed to make you a whole lot happier." *He booped her nose with a smile.* "Tell you what, why don't we get some ice cream after dinner?"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 06:34 PM

"Sure, if you'd like." *She smiled, thinking about the soapbox derby.* "...it was one of the only times my father and I disagreed; we built the car together, and it was fast, of course. He insisted it be practical; he designed it to look similar to a WWII bomber, with a shark on the nose. But I wanted it to stand out. So, I begged him to help me make it look like a unicorn; turned out the streamers and the head slowed me down..."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 06:37 PM

*He laughed softly.* "But you made it in second place, and that's still and accomplishment on its own."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 06:38 PM

*She thought for a moment.* "An achievement, yes, but not the desired one. But a fond memory, nonetheless. I gave the car to a neighbor girl, later, thinking it'd help me to make friends with her. It didn't- she moved later. Ah, well."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 06:40 PM

"Hey, at least you got the memories out of it." *He chuckled.* "I'd count that as a win."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 06:42 PM

"Mhm!" *She continued walking down the sidewalk, hands in-pocket.* "We're almost there- I recommend the chicken cordon bleu pizza. It combines not only pizza... but *also* chicken cordon bleu."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 06:43 PM

*He smiled.* "Thanks, but I'll keep it to a calzone. Haven't had one of those in forever." *He chuckled a bit.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 06:46 PM

*She entered, and, much like Steph's room, the pizzeria, too, was a nostalgic place, mimicking a 1990's pizzeria, complete with checkered floor, a jukebox, red and white, and booths that resembled large pizza slices. After ordering, Steph sat across from him.* "You can't beat the atmosphere- it's one of the reasons why I like this place so much. Pizza and ice cream. And nostalgia for a time I wish I could remember..."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 06:48 PM

"This is amazing, I can tell you that right off the bat." *He smiled softly and squeezed his hand.* "Really catchy music as well." *He grinnend at her.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 06:50 PM

"I thought you'd like it! That's New Kids on the Block playing- *'You Got It (The Right Stuff),'* I think." *She danced a little in her seat.* "They got a nostalgic Playlist on a loop."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 06:51 PM

"I can tell." *He chuckled as he saw her dance.* "You're cute when you do that, you know?"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 06:53 PM

"Do what? A dance? This song is technically an 80's song, but it was popular in the 1990's, too." *She smiled and happily sipped at her soda.* "Oh! I'm sorry- I forgot to get you one!"

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 06:56 PM

"Oh it's fine, I'll get one." *He grinned and gave her hand a squeeze as he got up and grabbed a soda himself before he sat doen again.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 06:57 PM

*Steph stood and got their food, sitting back down across from him.* "Did you want fries? Or no? I'm sorry- it's the first time I've been the lead on a date. Only my second date, you know..."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 06:59 PM

"You're doing great." *He grinned.* "No, truly the pizza is fine in its own." *He smiled at her and took a bite.* "Ok, those claims you made are justified, this is indeed one of the best pizzas I ever had." *He chuckled and looked at her.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 07:00 PM

"Thanks! I used to come here a lot when I was younger- once a week, at least. Of course I didn't always get pizza; I'd be fat, if I did, haha. But sometimes I'd just come here for a soda, and to look at the decorations."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 07:03 PM

"I'm happy you did, otherwise we wouldn't be having such amazing dinner." *He grinned.* "Just some delicious pizza, a beautiful setting and a gorgeous girlfriend, what else could I ask for?"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 07:03 PM

"I dunno- the right to hurl lightning bolts at fools? That's something I've always wanted, personally. Well, when I say *'fools,'* I mean people who are mean. Or rude."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 07:04 PM

"*That* would be very handy and extremely dangerous. But totally worth it."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 07:07 PM

"Right? I've always thought- Ooo!" *She stood, dancing with her hands, as the song changed- 'Bidi Bidi Bom Bom' came on the radio, and she danced, singing along in Spanish. For the first time since Xander had known her, letting her Latin side out, happily.* "I haven't heard this in forever!"

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 07:10 PM

*He smiled as he watched her dance.* "I can see you adore it." *He chuckled a bit.* "And you're part Spanish? Because that Spanish almost sounds like one of the locals is speaking it."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 07:11 PM

*She stopped dancing and sat cross-legged back in the booth.* "My father was Puerto Rican, with some Mexican heritage mixed in- partially why I'm fluent in Spanish and Korean...and English, of course." *She smiled, taking a bite of her pizza.*

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 07:15 PM

"Wow, I never knew that! That's quite interesting." *He grinned and took a bite.* "I'm just a full on Dutch boy. Nothing new there."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 07:17 PM

"My parents were kind of... I suppose you'd call them *'opposites?'* My father was... talkative, loud, and boisterous. Friendly, too- as soon as he shook your hand, he'd behave like you were already good friends. My mother was... quiet, reserved- very loving, too. In that respect, they were very similar."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 07:18 PM

"I would've loved to meet them, they seemed like two very interesting people." *He smiled softly.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 07:20 PM

"You'd... probably have liked them. My mother was soft-spoken. Spoke only when she had something to say. It wasn't like she didn't want to talk to people. She just didn't want to bother them. My father, however, would insert himself into almost any conversation. And it never bothered anyone- he was as charming and charismatic as he was knowledgeable."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 07:25 PM

*He chuckled a bit.* "Sounds an awful lot like my dad. Only difference is that he absolutely adores coffee."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 07:26 PM

"Perhaps they'd have gotten along well. My father liked... people. You know, I'm named after him?"

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 07:28 PM

"Apart from your last name? Call me interested."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 07:30 PM

"His name was Estephan Raoul Medrano. He was a Master Chief Petty Officer in Starfleet- previously served on ships, but taught at Starfleet Academy, after I was born. He wanted to be near me, and my mother, so he took a job close to home."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 07:31 PM

"Sounds like he cared deeply about you and your mom." *He chuckled.* "A bit like a care about you."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 07:33 PM

"I appreciate that." *She took another drink of her soda and thought silently.* "I thought, if I took a teaching position here, I could remain... home. You know? Stay closer, get back those feelings. But... my place is on the ship. With you, as it were."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 07:35 PM

"I'd follow you wherever you'd go, but my home at the moment is most definitely Odyssey. Have a lot of friends there." *He smiled at her.* "And I appreciate you say that, it means a lot to me." *He grabbed her hand and squeezed it softly.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 07:36 PM

"Perhaps, one day, I'll come back home permanently; I'm qualified to teach, and that's what I'd like to do, someday. Here, if it comes down to it. I love this city- its people. It's my home, and, even if it takes me a decade or two, I plan to come back."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 07:39 PM

"I guess that makes the two of us, apart from the teaching that is." *He nodded.* "But I'd love to, you know, spend my time with you more closely." *He smiled softly.* "Eventuality live together, maybe have a kid. Just settling down in general."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 07:41 PM

"I'd never considered having a child before. To be honest, it was far from my mind- just about as far as can be." *She drank through her straw, making a loud sound, before she got up to get another drink.* "...although it might be... beneficial, in an eventuality, to have offspring. Technically speaking, reproduction is a process that is meant for replacing organisms in the event of their inevitable demise."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 07:43 PM

"That's... An interesting way to put it." *He chuckled softly.* (edited)

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 07:46 PM

"Someday, perhaps. I always had a set plan." *She sat down, eating another bite of pizza.* "I wanted to be young, and adventurous. Then I wanted to be middle aged, and have my own space away from everyone. Then I wanted to be old, and left alone, then complain about things being too loud even though I couldn't hear them. But now? I want to finish our mission as well as we can, then come home, and live here, teaching. Maybe with a child."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 07:49 PM

"Mind if I'll be the dad of said child when the time comes?" *He smiled and raised an eyebrow.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 07:50 PM

"Perhaps. I'm not a clairvoyant- I can't see the future. But it looks like you've got a 50/50 chance." *She smiled and sipped at her drink.*

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 07:51 PM

*He chuckled.* "Well, those are pretty good odds if I say so myself."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 07:52 PM

"Mhm. We always deal with odds, no matter what we're doing. Even precision calculations have a margin for error."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 07:55 PM

"Can't disagree with you there." *He smiled and took a bite.* "Also, I've been thinking. Might it be an idea if we started to share quarters? Only if you agree with it though. I won't force you into anything."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 07:56 PM

"I'm not... entirely comfortable with that. I'm sorry- I hope you aren't mad. I'm just... I prefer my space. I don't... I don't think right now is the proper time..." *She looked down, red in the face.* "...I hope you're not mad..."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 07:58 PM

"Oh, no. I'm not. I totally understand." *He grinned and gave a soft kiss on the cheek.* "If you want to have a room to yourself, you can have a room to yourself. I don't mind at all." *He squeezed her hand.* "If anything, I'm happy you're so truthful with me."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 07:59 PM

"I'm glad. It's nothing against you- It's just... this whole... relationships thing is a new sensation. I... I think I just need time to fully adjust. I'm sorry if that's disconcerting."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 08:01 PM

"It's fine, really. Take all the time you need. I won't rush you." *He grinned.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 08:02 PM

"I'm just... worried you'll think I'm stringing you along or something. I'm not, I swear. It's just... hard. To adjust, I mean- that's probably why I behave more like a friend than a girlfriend. Although I *am* your girlfriend, rest assured."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 08:08 PM

"Steph, it's fine." *He smiled at her.* "Just take your time, and we'll get through it together. Maybe it would be good for you to call the shots to say what you're comfortable with and what you want to let be for now."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 08:09 PM

"Well... I really like hanging out with you. We could go back to that? Not that I... don't want to be romantic. It's just more comfortable if we're friends as well as dating. You know?"

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 08:09 PM

"Yea, sure! I'd love that." *He grinned.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 08:13 PM

"It may seem... *unconventional,* compared to everyone else's relationships, but... I think that'd be for the best. If it's okay with you."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 08:14 PM

"I like it, sometimes unconventional is the way forward." *He smiled softly, taking a bite from his pizza.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 08:19 PM

"That's good- okay, now that that's settled... are you staying in town, tonight?"

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 08:20 PM

"If you want to, otherwise I'll just go back to Rotterdam and spend the night there."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 08:20 PM

"...I have a guest room, at the house. It's small, but it's got a bed. Furnished, I mean. It's on the opposite side of the hallway to my room."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 08:21 PM

"Oh, that will do just fine. I can sleep on a layer of grass if necessary." *He grinned.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 08:22 PM

"I'm probably gonna sleep in my room- lots of time to pass. Collection to dust, organize. Stuff to do. I'll probably be up most of the night if you need anything."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 08:24 PM

"I'll be fine, don't worry." *He chuckled a bit.* "I guess you have a tight schedule."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 08:25 PM

"Not exactly- just gotta... take care of things at the house. Figure out how to program Fred to be a caretaker. Make sure things are set here..."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 08:26 PM

"Ah, ok. I'll be right there if you need me. You can wake me whenever."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 08:26 PM

"It's quite alright... the bed in there is a full, so you should have enough room, in the event that you toss and turn."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 08:27 PM

"Thanks, I appreciate it." *He grinned and squeezed her hand, taking another bite from his pizza.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 08:30 PM

*She finished her pizza and stood.* "I'll be back in a moment." *She returned with a large glass filled with root beer and two scoops of ice cream on top, then put one in front of him.* "...best root beer float you'll have for a while." *She placed her spoon in and slowly sipped.*

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 08:30 PM

*He smiled and did the same.* "That's quite good, I'm not gonna lie."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 08:33 PM

"Root beer is the *preferred* drink to use, but what they won't tell you is that it works with just about *any* dark colored soda. Cola, rather." *She took a bite with her spoon and smiled.* "Interesting word- *'Cola.'* The word actually comes from the *'kola'* nut, spelled with a K. It was used to flavor the first widely marketed cola, Coca-Cola."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 08:44 PM

"You know a lot about cola, don't you, love?" *He grinned at her, sipping some himself.* (edited)

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 08:44 PM

"I sometimes look things up. When things interest me, I do research."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 08:45 PM

"Can't say that's a bad habit. If anything it's good that you do just that, it keeps the mind sharp, no?"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 08:46 PM

"Sometimes, it's on a whim." *She blew bubbles quietly in her float, making it fizz a little more.* "...depends on my mood. Sometimes, if a subject comes up, I'll glance at an article or two. If it really interests me, I'll be on the subject for days."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 08:47 PM

*He spooned some ice cream and took a bite.* "Well, good to know that you have a big attention span." *He chuckled softly.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 08:49 PM

"...that's how I got into temporal physics." *She smiled.* "I read a paper, regarding the use of chronitons as a weapon. I thought, *'Chronitons would have to be **charged'*** **to be weaponized, no? What if an opposite charge were applied to the same type of chroniton?** Then, research went in, I wrote a dissertation on temporal shielding, and a couple years later, I was a doctor of Theoretical Physics in Temporal Sciences."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 08:55 PM

"Quite the story. I just thought it would be interesting to know how other beings worked, so I went xenobiology. And here I am: a xenobiologist." *He grinned and sat back.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 08:57 PM

"I enlisted- I enjoyed my time, so... I suppose I'm a career officer, even though it's still pretty early in my career."

Lt. Xander Spica 21-Dec-20 09:06 PM

"Well, small career or not. You already made a name for yourself out there, and that's quite the accomplishment."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 21-Dec-20 09:07 PM

"I hope it helps. Someday, I hope I can contribute something more than theoretical lab work."

Lt. Xander Spica 22-Dec-20 04:38 AM

*He smiled brightly.* "I'm sure you will."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 22-Dec-20 04:32 PM

"Maybe. I dunno- temporal stuff is a bit niche. It's like... being qualified to cook when everyone else in your department is farming."

Lt. Xander Spica 22-Dec-20 04:35 PM

"If there's a temporal event anytime soon, you'll be one of the more important persons starfleet will have." *He smiled and squeezed her hand.* "And what is farming for if we don't make food out of it via cooking?"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 22-Dec-20 04:36 PM

"I dunno- I just feel kind of... *extra,* you know? Like I'm only half-needed. But I'm not complaining; I can function well as a lab scientist, as you know. And if diplomacy is needed for... stuff... Interspecies Protocol was also a focus."

Lt. Xander Spica 22-Dec-20 04:37 PM

"I need you, Steph. I love you and I won't let you go anytime soon." *He smiled softly at her.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 22-Dec-20 04:39 PM

"That makes me feel... significantly better, I'll admit."

Lt. Xander Spica 22-Dec-20 04:40 PM

"That's good to know. I guess I'll just have to say it more often." *He gave a wink and sipped some soda.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 22-Dec-20 04:40 PM

"If you'd like to. I'm not gonna stop you."

Lt. Xander Spica 22-Dec-20 04:41 PM

"Well, then I'll just say it again: I love you, Steph." *He smirked ever so slightly and sipped some more soda.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 22-Dec-20 04:53 PM

"I have affection for you as well- I told you once that I... *loved* you. It remains true, but I feel that if I use words too often they lose their meaning."

Lt. Xander Spica 22-Dec-20 04:54 PM

"Some words will never loose their meaning. 'I love you' are some of those words."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 22-Dec-20 04:59 PM

"Perhaps. I'm no expert on words. In fact there's very little I'm an expert on, to tell the truth. I keep learning every day."

Lt. Xander Spica 22-Dec-20 05:01 PM

"A lesson a day makes us wiser by the second." *He grinned a bit as he ate from his pizza.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 22-Dec-20 05:11 PM

*Stepg took another spoonful of ice cream from her float, careful not to eat too fast.* "Vanilla works- it's probably the most versatile of all ice cream varieties."

Lt. Xander Spica 22-Dec-20 05:15 PM

"It most definitely is, though have you ever tried mango strawberry ice cream? It's amazing." *He grinned and scooped some himself.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 22-Dec-20 05:22 PM

"I have- sweets are *also* an area of expertise. Rum raisen, too."

Lt. Xander Spica 22-Dec-20 05:27 PM

"Really now? That's quite interesting."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 22-Dec-20 05:27 PM

"Mhm. Movies, sweets, and sometimes toys. Those are what I specialize in."

Lt. Xander Spica 22-Dec-20 05:30 PM

"Well, seems I know who I'm asking for Christmas present advice if I need it." *He chuckled and scooped some more ice cream.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 22-Dec-20 05:56 PM

"I'll see what I can do! I love Christmas."

Lt. Xander Spica 22-Dec-20 05:59 PM

"So do I! It's one of the best things there is."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 22-Dec-20 06:07 PM

"Mhm. If for only one day, everything stops. No matter how bad, or how sad, or however the rest of the world is, for a single day, everything stops being bad- everyone is happy. Everything is perfect, if only for a day out of the year."

Lt. Xander Spica 22-Dec-20 06:08 PM

"And that's why it's the best holiday ever." *He grinned a bit.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 22-Dec-20 06:09 PM

"...I'm not one for presents, either. Just the feeling of Christmas. And the movies. Christmas specials. Rankin/Bass. The Year Without a Santa Clause, specifically."

Lt. Xander Spica 22-Dec-20 06:11 PM

"I have enough with being with my family and loved ones- with you." *He smiled softly.* "That's all I'll ever ask for Christmas."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 22-Dec-20 06:13 PM

"All I ever do is... watch movies."

Lt. Xander Spica 22-Dec-20 06:16 PM

"Up for something else for a chance?" *He raised an eyebrow.* "Like, going for a stroll under the starry skies."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 22-Dec-20 06:19 PM

"Maybe some other time. Right now my comfort box is like... a hat box. Perhaps in time it will evolve into a crate. Then a shipping container."

Lt. Xander Spica 22-Dec-20 06:20 PM

"I understand, now the task of choosing a movie we both enjoy watching."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 22-Dec-20 06:26 PM

"If you'd like."

Lt. Xander Spica 22-Dec-20 06:28 PM

"Sure! I'd love to spend more time with you."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 22-Dec-20 06:59 PM

"I'd like to, too. It makes the relationship so much more... close."

Lt. Xander Spica 22-Dec-20 07:02 PM

"It sure does, and I love that we'll get even more close." *He grinned and squeezed her hand.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 22-Dec-20 07:03 PM

"I as well."

Lt. Xander Spica 22-Dec-20 07:04 PM

*He smiled and took another bite of pizza.* "That's good to hear."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 23-Dec-20 05:48 PM

"Mhm! Happy to please."

Lt. Xander Spica 23-Dec-20 05:50 PM

*He chuckled and smiled.* "I love you Steph, don't forget that."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 23-Dec-20 06:12 PM

"Of course I won't. You keep saying it." *She ate another spoonful of ice cream, happily swinging her feet back and forth under the table.*

Lt. Xander Spica 23-Dec-20 06:13 PM

"Better say it too often then too less." *He chuckled and took another bite from his ice cream seeing he finished his pizza and soda.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 23-Dec-20 06:25 PM

"That's an okay way to be about it."

Lt. Xander Spica 23-Dec-20 06:26 PM

*He smiled.* "Glad you agree."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 23-Dec-20 08:15 PM

"Mhm. There's very little I'm disagreeable about."

Lt. Xander Spica 23-Dec-20 08:16 PM

"So it would seem. Though a relationship without argument could be a bit *too* perfect. Of you get what I mean."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 23-Dec-20 08:19 PM

"I don't know what I'd argue about. I'm mostly agreeable about everything. Aside from the obvious."

Lt. Xander Spica 23-Dec-20 08:20 PM

"Makes sense." *He looked at her with a grin, quite happy to be here with her.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 23-Dec-20 08:24 PM

"Well, I'm probably gonna go back home for the night. Things and... stuff require my attention. I've got dusting to do, and a robot to reprogram for the tasks I've assigned. I don't want him to blow his stack, you know."

Lt. Xander Spica 23-Dec-20 08:25 PM

"Sure! If you don't mind, I'll tag along to set up my bed for the night." *He smiled softly.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 23-Dec-20 08:30 PM

"Of course." *She stood up from her booth and stretched, looking at the pizzeria.* "I'm gonna miss this place; at least until I come back. It's as much my home as... my *home* is."

Lt. Xander Spica 23-Dec-20 08:31 PM

*He smiled and stood up as well.* "I can understand that, it's right up your comfort zone, isn't it?" *He extended his hand towards her.* "Shall we?" *He smiled softly at her.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 23-Dec-20 08:34 PM

"Sure, if you want." *She tossed her lab coat-like jacket back on and stepped out, opening the door for him.*

Lt. Xander Spica 23-Dec-20 08:35 PM

*He smiled and walked out, waiting for her to lead the way back.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 23-Dec-20 08:36 PM

*As she walked, she placed both hands behind her head, attempting to balance on the curbs of the sidewalk.* "Sorry my places aren't too exciting. As you know, most of my stuff is pretty old-fashioned."

Lt. Xander Spica 23-Dec-20 08:39 PM

"Well, it helps me getting to know you better. And I like that I know more about you now than I did yesterday."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 23-Dec-20 09:02 PM

"With most people, I'm very private. I have a specific set of facts that I keep public knowledge, and very few know more than that. I think you're the only one so far."

Lt. Xander Spica 24-Dec-20 04:00 AM

*He chuckled softly.* "Well, I'm delighted to have this privilege of knowing you better then most."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 03:25 PM

*Once Steph returned, she came downstairs from a closet with a large box, followed by Fred, who carried an even larger one.* "Christmas lights!" *Steph happily sat down cross legged on the floor, inspecting each bulb closely.*

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 03:27 PM

*He smiled and sat down opposite of her.* "So, what would you like to start decorating first?"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 03:32 PM

"Before I decorate, I have to investigate the bulbs in my Christmas lights; if *one* of them is out, then entire thing will look weird... or it won't work. Either way it's disconcerting..." *She continued to investigate each bulb with strenuous detail.*

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 03:35 PM

"Why don't you start on that end, and I'll start on this one. Makes things go twice as fast." *He grinned a bit.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 03:39 PM

"I have a specific system for each one..."

F.R.E.D. BOT 25-Dec-20 03:40 PM

"I have the ornaments, ma'am!" *Fred carefully placed the box down, then pulled a single ornament out: it was in the shape of the USS Enterprise NCC-1701.* "Nice little ship!"

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 03:42 PM

"I can help me if you tell me how I can help?" *He chuckled a bit at Fred.* "That's one adorable *Enterprise*"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 03:43 PM

"Well, you gotta make sure the wires are an equal length between, the bulbs aren't crooked, and that the colors are an equal sequence."

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 03:45 PM

"I can do that... I think." *He chuckled and started on the other end.* "So, when did this love for Christmas start?"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 03:48 PM

"...forever ago. I've always watched Christmas movies every year. And every year it was the same ones: *It's A Wonderful Life, The Year Without A Santa Clause, Miracle on 34th Street,* and *A Christmas Carol.*" *She took the ornament from Fred, then placed it on the table.*

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 03:49 PM

"I wouldn't mind watching them with you. I'd love to, even." *He grinned a bit as he moved down the wire.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 03:51 PM

"Perhaps." *She moved down the string of lights, then frowned.* "...this one is out if sequence; two green ones in a row."

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 03:52 PM

"I have two blue ones in sequence over here, wanna trade?" *He grinned a bit.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 03:53 PM

"Oh, no... perhaps if we had them one under the other they would look symmetrical." *She moved to the next one, that Fred handed her, with his clamp-like hands.*

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 03:54 PM

"That could work." *He nodded and grabbed the next wire.*

F.R.E.D. BOT 25-Dec-20 03:55 PM

"It's a might chilly- at least according to my network connection. Would either of you care for a glass of hot chocolate?"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 03:59 PM

"Of course, Fred- no marshmallows in mine, please. Extra calories..." *She continued to examine the bulbs, each one-by-one, slowly.*

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 04:00 PM

"Oh, yes please. I would like some marshmallows however." *He grinned and went on to the next wire.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 04:02 PM

*Steph turned her TV on, and It's A Wonderful Life played as she continued to work.* "This is a fine film; it's a Christmas film, but it was never intended as one. In fact, despite it existing for nearly four hundred years, it was a commercial failure upon release..."

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 04:03 PM

"Really now?" *He looked at the film playing in the background through the corner of his eye.* "Seems lovely."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 04:04 PM

"The topic of suicide was very controversial in 1946." *She silently worked, with an expressionless face.*

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 04:07 PM

"Ah, that kind of film. That doesn't really seem to cover the Christmas spirit, now does it?" *He chuckled softly.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 04:10 PM

"It's about a man who means a lot to a small town; he's effectively responsible for saving it time and again, and he means a lot to the town. But one day, money in his business goes missing, and he believes he's worth more dead than alive. So, while he's contemplating suicide, his guardian angel comes to save him, and shows him how bad the town would be without him." *She smiled a bit, watching for a moment.*

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 04:11 PM

"Well, that *does* seem to cover the Christmas spirit." *He grinned a bit.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 04:12 PM

"Mhm! It's a favorite of mine. It helps to remind you that no matter how little you think you contribute, you're always important to people."

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 04:14 PM

"It does, doesn't it." *He smiled a bit.* "Tell you what, why don't we watch it together after we decorate the house?"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 04:14 PM

"If you want. I should be done soon, with the lights, but there's other things I need to do. You can watch it if you'd like though."

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 04:19 PM

"Now what's the fun in watching a film alone without my lovely girlfriend?" *He grinned a bit.* "I'll help you put up the lights and I'll set up my bed afterwards."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 04:19 PM

"You could experience it for yourself! Sometimes I find that experiencing a film by myself allows me to better understand it."

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 04:25 PM

"I find it less enjoyable on my own. But I guess I could give it a wirll before I go to sleep."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 04:26 PM

"I'll probably remain awake for the duration. I sleep very little." *She stood up and placed the inspected lights on a nearby table.* "It's impossible to sleep when there are things to be done!"

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 04:29 PM

"Like what, exactly? If you don't mind me asking." *He layed his set of lights near her pile.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 04:30 PM

"Decorations, reprogramming, dusting, cleaning, reassessing the house- lots of things. I'll do them all myself, though- it shouldn't take me too long, and I function well on three to four hours of sleep!:

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 04:32 PM

"As an ex-medic on Yorktown, I'd suggest you need more sleep. But I have the feeling you'll simply ignore me."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 04:34 PM

"An astute observation. I probably would. I think that the time wasted with ample sleep could be better used accomplishing things."

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 04:37 PM

"Steph, I'm going to get you to bed early one day. I just need to convince you somehow." *He grinned a bit.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 04:37 PM

"You're welcome to try, but twenty-six years of going to bed at sporadic hours is probably hard to undo."

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 04:39 PM

"I got you to be less symetrical already, a sleep pattern wouldn't be so hard." *He poked her side softly and grinned.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 04:40 PM

*She ignored his poke, and knelt down, looking in the corner.* "That seems like an excellent place for a tree, no? I'll have Fred bring down the tree-"

F.R.E.D. BOT 25-Dec-20 04:40 PM

"Two cups of hot chocolate, both at a hundred and ten degrees Fahrenheit, as per the recommended temperature!"

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 04:41 PM

"Thanks, Fred. You're a hero." *He smiled and gave Steph her cup.* "There you go, love." *He grinned a bit.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 04:43 PM

"Appreciated." *She carefully took it and placed it on a coaster.* "Fred, would you mind bringing the tree down? It's upstairs."

F.R.E.D. BOT 25-Dec-20 04:44 PM

"Of course, ma'am! I live but to serve. Well, I don't *live,* but I am animated in a fashion of sorts..." *He continued to mumble to himself as he went to get the tree.*

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 04:45 PM

*He sat on the couch with a slight chuckle, sipping some choco.* "He's great fun that Fred of yours, I must say."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 04:46 PM

"...as you know, I didn't have many friends, growing up. I... it was probably kind of selfish, but I programmed him to compliment because I liked to hear them."

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 04:48 PM

"Oh?" *He grinned a bit.* "Well, did someone ever tell you you look beautiful today?"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 04:49 PM

"I believe you insinuated it. Twice. Well, three times, now."

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 04:50 PM

"Touche, but did someone tell you you have beautiful eyes?"

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 04:50 PM

"Not that I know of. They're brown. Very common color..."

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 04:51 PM

"Well, they're lovely." *He grinned a bit, sipping so choco.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 05:01 PM

"Mkay! If you insist, I guess they are." *Steph picked hers up, then took a sip.*

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 05:02 PM

*He chuckled a bit as he sipped some more choco.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 05:25 PM

"Fred is programmed as a servant and butler. With time, I hope to adjust him to include caretaker, too."

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 05:28 PM

"Would lessen the workload by quite a margin. Maybe that'll get you to bed earlier."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 05:29 PM

"Maybe; I hope to make him the one who watches the house while I'm gone. It'll be a long time till I'm back home."

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 05:31 PM

"Yep, probably another 1 to 2 years or so." *He smiled at her.* "Gives us more then enough time to spend together." *He chuckled softly, sipping some choco.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 05:32 PM

"Mhm! I'll do my best to accommodate... relationship stuff." *She smiled a bit.*

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 05:33 PM

"Your best is enough, Steph." *He smiled back at her.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 05:34 PM

"Appreciated. I apologize for being slow, again. These feelings are all too... *overwhelming.*"

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 05:36 PM

"Hey, Steph. It's no issue. I'll match the pace you pick." *He gave her hand a squeeze.* "And I'm here for you if those feelings are *too* overwhelming."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 05:37 PM

"It's... *fine.* Really, I'm okay. I'll just continue to play the part of the nerdy best friend until something else comes naturally." *She smiled and headed to grab the tree from Fred.*

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 05:39 PM

*He nodded and grinnend.* "Sounds lovely." *He walked over and to help her.*

F.R.E.D. BOT 25-Dec-20 05:40 PM

*The robot slipped on a step, effectively tossing the treet to Steph, who caught it with expert timing.* "Oh... oh, I'm sorry ma'am! I'm... mortified, simply *mortified* that I miscalculated my steps..."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 05:40 PM

*Steph laughed and carried the tree.* "It's fine, Fred; you're still getting used to your new legs..."

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 05:42 PM

*He laughed for a short while.* "Hey Fred, mind if I take a look at your calculative matrix? Could help solve the issue." *He looked at Steph.* "Of you don't mind, he's your robot after all."

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 05:45 PM

"Of course- go ahead. As long as you don't fry him."

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 05:47 PM

"I won't." *He gave a wink and got some tools.* "Alright Fred, why don't you sit down whilst I pry open that noggin of yours."

F.R.E.D. BOT 25-Dec-20 05:50 PM

"Good sir, my noggin is yours to pry with." *He sat down with a loud THUMP, opening the hatch on the back of his head.*

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 05:52 PM

"Alright, keep still. Don't want to make you blow out a relay." *He got a scanner and checked his matrix.* "Ah, seems to have lost a wire." *He reconnected it and closed the hatch.* "Try now?"

F.R.E.D. BOT 25-Dec-20 06:02 PM

"I feel most agreeable! *Most* agreeable! Nothing to complain about. Although I wouldn't if there were!"

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 06:02 PM

"Good! Now, can you try to calculate the distance between here and let's say... The tree?"

F.R.E.D. BOT 25-Dec-20 06:03 PM

*His eyes flickered for a moment.* "...seventeen square feet, sir!"

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 06:04 PM

"That's the surface between them." *He opened the hatch and changed a few things.* "Try again?"

F.R.E.D. BOT 25-Dec-20 06:10 PM

"Still, seventeen square feet. But there's a few pines sticking out, so... sixteen feet, six and a half inches...?"

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 06:14 PM

"That's still the surface, Fred. I need a distance from you." *He changed a few more conduits.* "Again?"

F.R.E.D. BOT 25-Dec-20 06:20 PM

"That's still the *measurement,* sir. But from me? Between twelve and fourteen. Approximately thirteen and a half feet."

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 06:21 PM

*He chuckled a bit.* "Not helping, Fred." *He looked up.* "Steph, can you be a dear and help a xenobiologist out over here?" *He smiled at her.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 06:22 PM

"I doubt it; I'm a temporal physician." *She approached Fred and looked inside his head.* "Everything is in order; I think Fred is just being difficult."

F.R.E.D. BOT 25-Dec-20 06:23 PM

"I'm most certainly *not.* I'm stating factually the distance between where I'm sitting and the tree!"

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 06:25 PM

"Are you now? And since when is distance in square feet?" *He tapped Freds head with a PADD.* "Quit being stubborn or I'll deactivate those subroutines for the time being." *he grinned a bit.* (edited)

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 06:27 PM

"He's just... being Fred. He'll be fine- he's just still not used to the body. I never fully integrated him for it, after all."

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 06:29 PM

*He chuckled a bit.* "Well, at least we now know he's one uncooperative fellow when it comes to check-ups."

F.R.E.D. BOT 25-Dec-20 06:30 PM

"Perhaps."

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 06:31 PM

"Alright, we get the picture." *He tapped his head again.*

Ensign Stephanie Medrano 25-Dec-20 06:39 PM

"I'll fix him later. I'm sure he'll be more cooperative when we're alone."

Lt. Xander Spica 25-Dec-20 06:40 PM

"I suppose so." *He chuckled a bit.*

F.R.E.D. BOT 25-Dec-20 06:40 PM

"Yes, perhaps I will be. Or maybe not. It depends on what's going on."

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