“Not something I might sing about from the proverbial rooftops, I’d advise, especially considering we have some former Starfleet among us now and they might react poorly.” Tiraa advised and picked up another piece of chocolate. “But if it was something you were comfortable with doing knowing what it might bring about, I don’t think you should worry about it all that much.”

“I don’t talk about my past jobs too much. If any of them don’t like it, they can leave the ship. Otherwise they’ll be best advised to stay out of my way. I may not exhibit much in the way of aggression, but I’ve broken the arms of men twice my size. It’s all about leverage and shifting weight. And I’m a decent shot when needed. Alot of time in this quadrant….” She realized she was going on about herself, but wasn’t certain of Tiraa’s story.

“Speaking of which, what brings you out here? Something tells me you have much better ways of making money than running around on an old Federation ship out on the frontier….”

Lindsy’s lack of empathy toward those who might have been affected by the weapons she had helped transport to the aggressor in the war was unexpected and jarring for Tiraa, but it didn’t show on her beautiful face. She simply listened, then a small smile tugged onto her lips at the sudden change of topic. “While money is certainly important, adventure is too. A bit of travel can bring in many unexpected opportunities or chances to nurture those one has already taken.”

“This is quite a choice for adventure, but who am I to judge? It seems the adventure and excitement are what drive me the most. Even in a universe we have little control over . It’s why I let go of caring about so many things some time ago. What has been, has been. Nothing can be changed, so dwelling on it makes no difference.I will say however, I’m happy to be with the crew that we have here, now.” Lindsy grabbed another chocolate and reached over for some more wine, only to find a bottle missing. “Huh..looks like we know why T’Vara didn’t last longer than she did.”

“A thieving Romulan.” Tiraa laughed. “Typical. Hopefully she enjoyed it thoroughly.” She ran her hand through the water, feeling it flow between her long fingers. “We shouldn’t dwell on the past, no, but we certainly should learn from it and be mindful.”

“That is quite an enlightened approach, usually Orion’s typically are much more…dismissive of what decisions have been made and their impacts…. You’re certainly not run of the mill, Tiraa. I am looking forward to working with you.”

“Heavens, dear, I would hope I’m not. I would hate to be predictable.” Laughing, Tiraa stood to step out of the water. “I’m looking forward to working with you as well.”

Lindsy stood up and took note of the evening working towards an end. “I do what I can to have nights like this every so often, I’ll make sure you get an invite from now on just like everyone else.” She picked up the empty bottles and glasses, taking a moment to get dressed and ensure anything she had brought wasn’t going to be left behind when the program ended. Every so often you could find something odd that had been left behind.

“I’m sure the other ladies would enjoy getting to know you better as well.”

“Perhaps, but they are rather wrapped up in their own little world it seems.” Tiraa reached out to take some of the things from Lindsy’s hands to help lighten the burden. “Ready to go? No need for an awkward attempt at goodbye here considering we live separated by a single wall, hm?”

“Of course,” Lindsy replied. It would be weird leaving separate from her immediate neighbor. “I think we’re good here. Computer, end program.”

In a moment, everything disappeared and she did a quick look around to verify nothing was left. The large cargo style doors opened revealing the exit for the two women. Swinging her bag over her shoulder, Lindsy led the way out and appreciated the lights being down lower for the night.

“So should I be expecting another rough night of sleep tonight, or will you be visiting Zedd’s quarters?” Tiraa asked casually as if she were speaking about simple lunch plans while they stepped onto the turbolift.

It was quite a question, valid, but almost felt too casual. “Zedd’s taking the evening to himself. He’s wanting to go over checklists and honestly I have some charts to go through. So you shouldn’t have to worry about a sleepless night from the Captain or myself.” The doors closed and Lindsy punched the button to move them off towards their quarters. “I think the deck will be quiet overall. The bar isn’t open late tonight, a bit of a curfew set as our preparations draw to a close.”

“Well that hardly sounds like a fun close to the day for either of you.” Tiraa chuckled. “Work is important, but don’t squander the time you have while things aren’t busy yet; who knows what will happen when business picks up.”

“I suppose it depends on one's definition of fun. But it will help settle any lingering anxieties he has, and allow him to better focus on our time together later on. We don’t need the Captain to be off in his own thoughts when shit hits the fan.” The lift stopped and the doors opened. Lindsy almost swore she heard light jazz music playing but shook her head to clear up any doubts.

“Perhaps, but don’t underestimate the focusing power such an act has on many men.” Tiraa smirked as they came to Lindsy’s door. She handed what she was carrying to the other woman and smiled. “I’ll say goodnight here then. Thank you again for the invitation. I had fun.”

“I’ll keep that in mind. Thank you for joining us. Have a good night, Tiraa.” Lindsy punched the button to her door, walking in and noticing a hint of floral essence. It only took a moment to recognize the vase of roses left on the nearby table, along with a card from Zedd…

Tiraa had taken three steps toward her door when she suddenly chuckled. At the very least they’d be across the hallway. That would make it easier. She entered her own quarters, empty that evening aside from herself, and wandered to her bathroom so she could shower and get ready for bed. It had been a long day.